Palm Beach Reef Fishing

Where is Palm Beach Reef?

Palm beach reef is located just off the coastline, adjacent to Palm beach on the southern end of the Gold coast. The newer man made section is a mere 270 metres east of the beach. However there is also a considerable amount of natural reef also. The depths vary from 25 metres, with pinnacles rising up to just 5 metres below the surface.

What Can I do at Palm beach reef?

The main activities undertaken at Palm beach reef are Fishing, Snorkeling, Diving, Kayaking and spear fishing. The reef system holds a wide variety of both bait fish and larger predatory fish species. As such it can be a very popular spot when the Mackerel are running.

How Do I Get There?

The two main ways to reach the reef are by boat or kayak. Alternatively if you are a competent swimmer/diver you can swim out from the beach. Kayaks can be launched from either Palm beach or Currumbin creek. For trailer boats you can launch at either Southport and run south down the coast. (approximately 12 nautical miles from the Gold coast Seaway). Alternatively you can travel up the coast from the Tweed river. Furthermore, smaller vessels can also be launched at Currumbin Creek or Tallebudgera inlet. Please be forwarned both of these locations have very shallow coastal bars that need to be crossed to get offshore. As a rule these bars should only be attempted when the tide is high and the weather conditions are favourable with a very low swell. Always remember no fish is worth your life, if the bar is rough, go home and wait for a day with better conditions.

Fishing Palmy Reef

Fishing at Palmy reef can be hot and cold. Without a doubt it can be one of the best local spots to target and catch Mackerel (Spotted, Spanish and School). Mackerel fishing is seasonal. Best months are December – April. Most people who think about fishing palmy tend to chase mackerel. However, this area holds a plethora of other quality species too. Over the years while we have been down there chasing mackerel we have caught numerous other large trophy fish at the reef. Common species we have caught include mulloway, big cod, cobia and even big GT’s have fallen victim to nicely presented live baits. Generally speaking, the best times to fish this reef system is early morning as the sun comes up over the horizon, or late afternoon around dusk.

What’s the Best Bait To Use at Palm Beach Reef?

If you are planning to chase the bigger predatory fish. Without a doubt either live yellowtail or slimy mackerel are by far the most productive baits. These can be caught on the reef itself. Alternatively lightly weighted floating pilchards either whole or cut into pieces will get good results too.

Palm Beach fishing Charters

Can I Go on a fishing charter to Palm beach reef? Absolutely, most charter boats fish the reefs off Palm beach at certain times during the year, particularly when the Mackerel are biting. It is best to book on a weekday for the best fishing results. Firstly, there is usually less boats on the reef. Secondly you might get a better price for a mid-week session.