Fishing the 36s east of the Gold coast can produce some quality fish when the right techniques are used. Float lining with lightly weighted pilchards is generally the best method for catching the bigger Snapper that lurk deeper in the water column. Additionally Patternoster style rigs are also effective. Particularly if the current is running hard. If the water is blue and there is plenty of bait present, it is well worth trying to catch pelagic species too. Live baiting while fishing at anchor or on the drift is also another productive technique for chasing the likes of marlin and dollies.

Where is The 36 Fathom Reef ?

The 36s run parallel with the coast and can be found approximately eleven nautical miles due east of the seaway. Furthermore, there is miles of good ground and the reef system runs all the way along the coast. However it pays to have a good look around out there and concentrate on working the rocky pinnacles.

What Are the Best Baits For Fishing the 36s ?

If you are going to spend the time heading to these wider reefs. It is important to take good quality fresh bait, and it also pays to stop and catch a few live baits in close first.

• Live Baits, Yellowtail or Slimy mackerel
• Pilchards (whole or cut in half)
• Squid
• Fresh flesh baits such as bonito and mullet

What Species Can I Catch at the 36s off The Gold Coast?

• Snapper
• Teraglin
• Venus Tuskfish
• Samson Fish
• Mahi Mahi
• Wahoo
• Marlin
• Pearl perch
• Teraglin
• Sharks
• Cod
• Gold Spotted Wrasse
• Cobia

How to Get Out to The 36 Fathom Grounds

These wider grounds on the 36s are a considerable distance off shore. In this case you want a good quality, ultra reliable boat. At least 6 metres is recommended. The current out wide can run at three knots plus. In the event your engines wont start. Your boat can drift a long way in a short period of time. Furthermore help from organisations like VMR and the Coast guard will take at least 1-2 hours to reach you.
A full compliment of safety gear as required by maritime safety Qld is absolutely essential. Always remember that no fish is worth your life. In the event that the weather looks dodgy on the day you plan to head out to the 36 fathom reef. Accordingly its advisable stay at home and wait for a day with more favourable weather conditions.

Fishing 36s and 50s – Gold Coast Charter Boats

If you don’t own a suitable vessel that is seaworthy, or you would like to head out with someone experienced on a bigger boat first. You may want to consider chartering a boat instead. Why not gather up a group of family and friends and head out for a full day trip to the wider 36 and 50 fathom grounds. Our full day fishing charters are available seven days a week weather permitting.

All the bait and quality fishing tackle is supplied. While an experienced friendly crew will provide all expertise and tips to help you achieve a good fishing technique.

For more information please give us a call on +61755109622