Ready to launch
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The Mackay region has about 30 boat launching sites to choose from when planning a day on the water. The main, multi-lane all-tide boat ramps are located at the Mackay Marina, River Street on the Pioneer River and at Victor Creek at Seaforth. The Marina ramp or Victor Creek ramp are best suited to larger boats. These ramps all have pontoons and plenty of parking, making launching easy for visiting anglers. Fishing from these pontoons isn’t encouraged, especially on busy days, as fishing lines and boat props don’t mix. If there’s a boat launching or coming out, please give them right of way and remove any lines from the water.
Boaties are encouraged to check the tides before launching at new ramps and, if unsure, always try to time launching and retrievals with the top half of the tide. Remember that tropical waters can come with dangers – always be croc wise and be wary of marine stingers. Never fillet or dispose of scraps near boat ramps as doing so attracts marine predators.
More information about local ramps can be found below.
Platform for success
Mackay CBD is home to 4 fishing platforms so land-based fisho’s have ample access to the range of species our Pioneer River has to offer.
Carlyle Street + Brisbane Street
Within walking distance from each other, these platforms allow anglers to access the deep water out from the shallow rocky riverbank.
A complex marine artificial habitat reef has been installed within casting distance of each platform with each containing one “ledge and cave” reef unit surrounded by four smaller “pyramid” reef units. When fishing these platforms, try cut baits, prawns and yabbies for bream, cod and flathead or live baits and lures for barra, mangrove jack and fingermark.
Old Hospital Bridge, Bridge Road
This 15x11-metre, L-shaped platform, complete with rod holders and seating, allows anglers to access deep water out from the shallow riverbank. Within casting distance (just 10m north of the pier), you’ll find another artificial habitat reef has been installed just like the Carlyle and Brisbane Street platforms.
There is plenty of structure below the jetty, so don’t be afraid to also fish in close for species such as bream, cod and Moses perch.
Forgan Bridge platforms
Three shaded platforms exist along the Forgan Bridge, Sydney Street. The two platforms on the southern end are situated over deeper sections of the river, which is known to have a healthy population of barramundi. While fast currents in the area make fishing tricky at times, smart anglers can fish neap tides or the lull around the tidal change with excellent results. Big live baits are best if you want to tempt quality fish. However, be equipped and prepared to raise your catch from the water to the bridge. This is not the spot for light gear. The northern pontoon is over shallower water and fishes well for whiting, flathead and bream from mid-tide up.
Mackay Region boat ramps + platforms
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Mackay land-based fishing hotspots
MAP and Listing Icon Key
Walking Location
Artificial Reef
Driving Location
Platform
1. Bassett Basin
2. Carlyle St and Brisbane St Platforms
3. Old Hospital Bridge Platform
4. Forgan Bridge Platforms
5. Ron Camm Bridge rock bars
6. Horse and Jockey Road sand banks
7. Dumbleton Weir area
8. Melba House
9. Mackay Marina Wall
10. North Wall Beach
11. Mouth of McCreadys Creek
12. Blacks Beach rocks
13. Seaforth Creek mouth
14. Victor Creek
15. St Helens Beach / Carpet Snake Point
16. Illawong Beach
17. McEwens Beach
18. Sarina Beach
19. The ledge
20. Dunrock Esplanade
