Drive three and a half hours north of Brisbane, and you’ll arrive at the humpback whale capital of Australia – beautiful Hervey Bay.
Home to Australia’s largest artificial reef (boasting some 50 underwater sites) Hervey Bay is popular with boaties, attracting people from all over to swim, sail, kayak, and fish in the calm waters.
While famed for its beaches, it’s not just the 17 kilometres of golden coast that attracts travellers – Hervey Bay is also home to lakes, islands, and estuaries, all ideal for taking the boat for a spin, and dropping in a line.
Here are some of the best.
Coongul Creek
Parallel to Fraser Island, Coongul Creek boasts absolutely clear water, that’s tranquil enough for the little ones to swim in, and perfect for calm water sports, like stand-up paddleboarding.
It’s easy to fish here, with bait (yabbies), plus bream, whiting, and large flathead all in one spot. There are also several shallow reefs to explore and fish.
Its location – drivable, or just 9 nautical miles from the bay by boat – makes this a popular day trip, but you can also camp on the beach.
It’s peaceful, but facility-free, so come prepared and do obtain a permit.
Launch from: The Urangan Boat harbour, then head about 30 minutes north of Moon Point, or from the North via 4×4.
Pelican Banks
A small island that becomes a medium-sized island at low tide, Pelican Banks is a vision of vibrant white sand that resembles a true castaway paradise – right down to the lack of facilities.
What it lacks in amenities, though, this secret spot makes up for in opportunities to relax.
Snorkel in the crystal waters, fish for whiting and flathead from the beach, or simply nap on the soft sand until the sunset paints the sky in breath-taking colours.
One note – the island is home to many seabirds, which can make the air less-than-fresh and does mean you must watch your step to avoid crushing eggs!
Launch from: Urangan Boat Harbour, then head northwest.
Woody Island
Just off the coast, Woody Island, also known as Tooliewah and ‘Big Woody’ makes for a fantastic day out.
Cruise the Great Sandy Strait then moor up at one of the many protected anchorages to explore the unique ecosystem of this lush island.
From Jeffries Beach – a quiet retreat for bush camping – you can step back in time at the Kerosene Shed.
From there it’s a short hike to the lighthouse, with spectacular views of Fraser Island.
To the east of the island, Roy Rufus Reef is where you can fish for bream, squire, and coral trout, while the adventurous dive the clear waters.
Launch from: Urangan Boat harbour, heading 4 kilometres east.
Mary River
Just south of Hervey Bay, the nearly-300 kilometre Mary River winds along from the Coral Sea through the rainforest and farmland.
Gently drift past quiet creeks and experience the diverse wildlife of the surrounding valley, watch as kingfishers dart across the water, and look out for the platypus, or unique Mary River turtle.
The river offers exceptional fishing, and is particularly suited to catching large, wild barramundi, blue salmon, whiting, and flathead – just check size and bag limits before you head out.
Launch from: River Heads, where there’s a two-lane ramp on the western side and a single ramp on the eastern side.
Urangan Pier
No boat? No worries!
One of the must-see attractions in Hervey Bay also happens to be a popular place for fishing – with good reason.
Extending nearly a kilometre out into the sea, with unrivalled bay views, the historic pier is worth a visit, either to catch dinner or simply stroll along the sunny boardwalk, spotting stingrays and dolphins.
You’ll find plenty of opportunities to cast a line and catch a wide range of fish along the 868 metre-pier, with whiting being particularly abundant.
If you’re really serious about fishing at the pier, visit during the annual festival each September for some friendly competition!
Land-based fishermen will also enjoy beach fishing at Torquay and Coonarr.
With so much to see and do, Hervey Bay is an absolute must for boat owners and fishermen.
Just be sure to check which local permits you need before you go!
Get A Quote For Low Rate Boat Finance With Credit One
