Target Species on True Blue Fishing Charters: What You Can Catch on the Gold Coast
One of the biggest drawcards of fishing on the Gold Coast is variety. Thanks to warm ocean currents, close offshore reefs, and deep water only minutes from shore, the species you can catch change throughout the year. When you fish with True Blue Fishing Charters, trips are planned around these seasonal
movements, giving anglers the best chance of success no matter the time of year.
From high-speed pelagic action in summer to quality reef fishing during the cooler months, here’s a breakdown of the target species you can expect on True Blue Fishing Charters on the Gold Coast.
Warm Water Species: Spring to Early Autumn 🌞🌊
As water temperatures rise, baitfish push down the coast and pelagic predators move in close. This is when offshore fishing really comes alive, with surface strikes, long runs, and spectacular fights.
Marlin
Marlin are one of the most exciting species encountered during the warmer months. Black and striped
marlin follow bait schools and current lines offshore, and while they’re not always the primary target, they’re a thrilling by-catch when trolling. A marlin hook-up is always a highlight, with explosive strikes and impressive aerial displays.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are a favourite summer target on the Gold Coast. Big, fast, and powerful, they hit hard and run fast. These fish are commonly caught trolling lures or live baits along reef edges and current lines, and they’re highly prized for their eating quality.
School Mackerel & Spotted Mackerel
School and spotted mackerel arrive in good numbers as the water warms. They provide fast-paced action on lighter tackle and are perfect for anglers of all experience levels. When feeding schools are located, the action can be non-stop.
Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish) 🌈
Mahi mahi are one of the most colourful and exciting species caught offshore. Found around floating debris, current lines, and structure, they’re aggressive feeders that often attack lures right at the surface. Their vibrant colours and excellent eating quality make them a crowd favourite.
Wahoo ⚡
Wahoo are among the fastest fish in the ocean and are often encountered while trolling offshore during the warmer months. Their strikes are sudden and violent, followed by blistering runs. Wahoo are also regarded as one of the best eating pelagic species available.
Cooler Water Species: Autumn to Winter ❄️🎣
As water temperatures drop, fishing effort shifts toward reef systems and slightly deeper ground. The cooler
months deliver some of the Gold Coast’s most consistent fishing, especially for anglers chasing quality table fish and hard-fighting reef species.
Snapper
Snapper are the standout species of the cooler months. Winter sees larger snapper move onto the reefs, and they’re a key target on many trips. Snapper fishing can be technical, but landing a quality fish is always rewarding.
Teraglin (Trag Jewfish)
Teraglin are a prized cooler-month species found on deeper reefs. Known for their size and excellent eating quality, they provide strong, determined fights and are a sought-after catch during winter.
Venus Tuskfish 🦷
Venus tuskfish are a powerful reef species commonly encountered during the cooler months. Their bright colours and distinctive orange tusks make them instantly recognisable. Once hooked, they dive straight for cover, requiring heavy tackle and quick reactions to land successfully.
Cobia
Cobia are a welcome surprise during the cooler months and are often encountered around reef structure
and current lines. Strong, stubborn fighters, cobia test both angler and gear and are well known for their excellent eating quality. They’re a highly regarded target when conditions line up.
Tuna
Tuna species are present year-round, but cooler conditions often produce consistent action. Tuna deliver fast runs and high-energy fights, making them a favourite for anglers who enjoy active, hands-on fishing offshore.
Tailor
Tailor are aggressive feeders that often hunt in schools. When active, they provide exciting action and plenty of bites. Tailor are a fun sportfish and a popular inclusion in mixed bags during cooler months.
Flathead
Flathead are commonly targeted closer to shore and during calmer conditions in the cooler months. They’re well known for their mild flavour and are a great option for anglers who enjoy lighter tackle fishing alongside offshore trips.
Fishing the Seasons with True Blue Fishing Charters 🎣
What sets True Blue Fishing Charters apart is their strong focus on seasonal fishing patterns. Rather than fishing the same way year-round, trips are adjusted based on water temperature, currents, bait movement, and recent catches.
This seasonal approach means:
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Higher catch rates
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A wide variety of target species
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Trips suited to beginners and experienced anglers
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The chance to catch multiple species on a single trip
During seasonal changeovers, it’s not uncommon to land both warm- and cool-water species on the same day.
A Gold Coast Fishing Experience for Everyone
Whether you’re new to fishing, visiting the Gold Coast on holiday, or a seasoned angler chasing quality offshore action, True Blue Fishing Charters offer trips to suit all experience levels.
From summer marlin and mackerel runs to winter snapper, tuskfish, and cobia sessions, the Gold Coast delivers outstanding fishing year-round — and every season brings something different to the deck 🌊🎣
Final Thoughts
The wide range of target species available throughout the year is what makes fishing on the Gold Coast so
special. With experienced local skippers, quality vessels, and a strong understanding of seasonal fish movements, True Blue Fishing Charters provide anglers with the best chance to experience everything this fishery has to offer.
No matter the season, stepping aboard a True Blue Fishing Charters trip means you’re fishing smart, fishing local, and fishing where the action is 🎣
