Mackay weather
One of the greatest things about the Mackay region is the on-water options – there is always somewhere to fish, no matter the wind or tide. The locals often talk about “from reef to rainforest” and that pretty much sums up the fishing too. Not every day has great tides and five knot winds, but with the reef, Shipping Channel, islands, creeks, dams or rainforest streams to choose from, somewhere is always accessible.
In fact, 365 days a year (barring the odd cyclone), you can be on the water fishing in the region. Sheltered in the Pioneer Valley and by the Eungella Range, the three dams still offer comfortable fishing in almost any wind conditions. As an added bonus they aren’t included in the barramundi closed season and actually fish best during full moons, when tides are at their largest on the coast.
Likewise, inlands freshwater streams like Funnel Creek and Cattle Creek are usually unaffected by coastal breezes. Saltwater creek systems like Constant Creek, Murray Creek, Rocky Dam Creek and McCreadys Creek all have ramps well upstream that offer access to protected waters. The Pioneer River also offers plenty of shelter and its feeder creeks around Bassett Basin allow for peaceful fishing in a breeze.
For those who want to head wide offshore, choose your weather windows carefully. From the Mackay Harbour to Stevens Reef is about 60 nautical miles (112km), which is a long run through exposed waters if the wind blows up. Ideally, for trailer boats, look for 5-10 knot variable forecasts. Winds from 10-15 knots are usually safe, but often pick up as the day goes on, meaning a rough trip home is likely.
Latest weather report
