Fishing around Sandgate offers a variety of locations that cater to both seasoned anglers and beginners alike. Whether you’re looking to catch a specific species or just enjoy a day by the water, these five fishing spots will give you plenty of opportunities to reel in a good catch. Here’s a guide to the best fishing spots in the area, along with the species you’re likely to encounter and the bait that works best.
1. Shorncliffe Pier
Shorncliffe Pier is an iconic spot that stretches out into Bramble Bay, offering an ideal location for various fishing styles. The pier is a great spot for catching a variety of species, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. With its ample space and seating, it’s a perfect place for family outings. Anglers have reported excellent success catching bream, flathead, and whiting, especially during the tide changes. For those interested in targeting snapper, evening fishing with pilchards or squid can be highly rewarding. Squid fishing is also popular here, especially under the lights at night.
Species: Bream, Flathead, Whiting, Snapper, and Squid
Bait Suggestions: Live prawns, pilchards, mullet strips, chicken gut, squid, soft plastics
2. Cabbage Tree Creek (Sinbad St)
Located off Sinbad Street, Cabbage Tree Creek is known for its productive fishing, particularly in the mangrove-lined banks. This area is renowned for the elusive mangrove jack, which can be targeted using live bait or lures around submerged structures. The creek is also home to barramundi, although they can be tricky to catch outside of the warmer months. The bream and flathead are more consistent year-round, with flathead often found on the sandy flats at the creek’s mouth. This spot is ideal for anglers who enjoy a bit of a challenge, as well as the tranquil environment that Cabbage Tree Creek offers.
Species: Mangrove Jack, Bream, Flathead, and Barramundi
Bait Suggestions: Live mullet, prawns, pilchards, soft plastics, hard-bodied lures
3. Decker Park
Decker Park is a favorite among local anglers, particularly for those targeting flathead and whiting. The park offers easy access to sandy shores and shallow waters, which are perfect for light tackle fishing. Flathead are commonly caught on soft plastics and live bait around the drop-offs and channels. Whiting and bream are more plentiful during the high tide when they move closer to the shore to feed. Tailor can be caught in the deeper channels, especially during the colder months. The park is also a great spot for families, with plenty of picnic areas and playgrounds nearby.
Species: Flathead, Bream, Whiting, and Tailor
Bait Suggestions: Pilchards, prawns, mullet strips, yabbies, soft plastics, metal slugs
4. Brighton Park
Brighton Park, located along the foreshore, is another excellent fishing location for catching bream and whiting. The shallow waters and sandy flats make it an ideal spot for wading and light tackle fishing. Flathead are often found near the drop-offs, while whiting are abundant in the shallow areas during high tide. Grunter, also known as javelin fish, can be caught around the rocky outcrops and channels, particularly using prawns or squid strips. The area is peaceful and often less crowded, providing a serene environment for a relaxing day of fishing.
Species: Bream, Whiting, Flathead, and Grunter
Bait Suggestions: Prawns, mullet strips, bloodworms, yabbies, squid strips
5. Baxters Jetty
Baxters Jetty is a hidden gem for those looking to escape the more popular fishing spots. It offers excellent opportunities to catch bream, flathead, and whiting, especially around the tidal changes. The jetty is less crowded, making it a perfect spot for a quiet fishing session. Squid can also be targeted here, particularly at night under the lights. The calm waters around the jetty provide an excellent environment for both novice and experienced anglers.
Species: Bream, Flathead, Whiting, and Squid
Bait Suggestions: Prawns, pilchards, mullet strips, chicken gut, soft plastics
Conclusion
Sandgate and its surrounding areas offer some of the best fishing spots in Queensland, with a variety of species available year-round. Whether you’re casting off Shorncliffe Pier or exploring the mangroves at Cabbage Tree Creek, you’re bound to have a rewarding experience. Remember to check local fishing regulations and tides before heading out, and always respect the environment to ensure these fantastic spots remain productive for years to come. Happy fishing!