Gold Coast Offshore Fishing Update
Tags: Offshore Fishing, Gold Coast Fishing, Angling Tips
With the Snapper and Pearl Perch Closure in effect until August 16th, now is the ideal time to target the plentiful Longtail Tuna that have been congregating along our 18 and 24-fathom reefs this past month. Whether you’re using live baits, pilchards, or micro jigs, you’re likely to have success. Focus on areas where baitfish are schooling, and you should hook a couple of quality Tuna. The afternoon bite on the close reefs has also been productive, with potential catches of solid-sized Jewfish and Cobia.
Hot Spots and Techniques
36-Fathom Reefs
The 36-fathom reefs have been teeming with Dolphinfish, especially around the FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices) northeast of the Seaway. These vibrant fish are still biting well around the 50-fathom reefs, with some specimens measuring over 1 meter.
50-Fathom Reefs
Fishing on the 50-fathom reefs has been excellent, with light currents and active fish. Yellowtail Kingfish and Amberjack are aggressively hitting jigs. A standout session mid-week saw numerous hungry Kingfish along the 50-fathom reefs northeast of the Seaway.
24-Fathom Reefs
The 24-fathom reefs have been productive, offering catches of Cobia, Tuna, and Mulloway. These species have been biting well, and anglers can expect good action using various baiting techniques.
Inshore and Deep-Sea Fishing
Inshore Reefs
Bottom fishing on the inshore reefs has yielded Tuskfish, Trag Jew, Tailor, Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, and Longtail Tuna, particularly around the close reefs off Surfers Paradise.
Deep-Sea Action
Further out in the deep, anglers using electric reels have reported catches of Flame Snapper, Bar Cod, and Kingfish at depths of 240-280 meters, with currents running between 0.6-2 knots. Additionally, Blue Marlin, Striped Marlin, and the occasional huge Yellowfin Tuna have been biting at depths of 450-500 meters east of the Jumpinpin area.
Continuing Pelagic Activity
The 18 and 24-fathom reefs continue to produce catches of Spanish Mackerel and the occasional Spotted Mackerel. These pelagic species have been active, even over the past weekend.
Weather and Safety
This weekend’s weather forecast predicts northwesterly winds of 15-20 knots offshore in the afternoons, with a brief window for early morning fishing on Saturday before the wind picks up. The swell is expected to increase during the next week, so it’s advisable to check the weather before heading offshore. Fishing in depths under 40 meters might be manageable, but always check the swell conditions via the Southport wave buoy before setting out.
Safety Warning: If heading north, be cautious of the dangerous swell over Deadman’s Bank, located on the north side of the Seaway. Always check the swell first and head southeast through the Seaway to at least 18-20 meters deep before turning north to your favorite spots. Additionally, be mindful of the numerous whales currently migrating through the area.
