Top 5 Fishing Spots in Townsville Region

Our region is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of freshwater and saltwater fishing spots. Chase barramundi in the rivers or reef fish out on the blue — here are our top five picks.

1. Balgal Beach

Right on our doorstep, Balgal Beach offers fishing for all levels, with jetty access, a boat ramp, and both river and ocean options. Target species include barramundi, mangrove jack, flathead, bream, whiting, queenfish, trevally, mackerel and snapper — and a friendly local fishing club to boot.

2. Black River

North of Townsville, the Black River is a favourite freshwater spot, with barramundi being the primary target for many anglers, alongside mangrove jack and sooty grunter.

3. Lake Ross

Located southwest of Townsville, this reservoir holds barramundi, sooty grunter and sleepy cod, accessible from the shore or a small boat.

4. Paluma Shoals

An offshore hotspot for reef fishing — coral trout, red emperor and sweetlip — plus pelagic species like Spanish mackerel and giant trevally.

5. The Strand Jetty

A popular hotspot for flathead, whiting, bream and mangrove jack, best fished in the early morning or late afternoon.

Wherever you cast a line, please practise responsible angling and stick to catch limits and regulations so our reef and river ecosystems stay healthy for generations to come. For more ideas, check out Townsville North Queensland’s water activities guide.

Make Balgal Beach Motel your fishing base — the jetty is only a short stroll away.