Entertainment
28 August, 2024
Hooking a barra a lot of fun
FOR the last 12 years, Hookabarra Fishing has been a source of both education and recreation for visiting locals and interstate visitors looking to try their hand at landing the famous barramundi.
Roughly 30 minutes from Port Douglas, Hookabarra Fishing offers the opportunity for visitors who may be either too time poor to spend a day fishing out on the Reef or just wish to weave an hour or two fishing into their Cape Tribulation or Daintree road trip.
Like many attractions in the region, it is slowly making a comeback after the severe flooding at the start of 2024.
“Although our fish stocks are not back to 100 per cent, we can still offer a real paddock to plate experience here,” said general manager Leigh Gallon.
“It generally takes around 18 months for our fish to grow to a commercial size, so we still have a little way to go,” he said.
“Not only does Hookabarra Fishing offer both a unique fishing experience, but we also run educational farm tours as well with school groups attending in recent years.
“It has been remarked that even if you consider yourself the most under-skilled of fishers, you are all but guaranteed to land one of North Queensland’s most prized table fish here.”
Time spent here is also a great opportunity to learn new fishing techniques under the watchful eye of their experienced staff.
In fact, not only can you land a barramundi in these purpose-built saltwater ponds, but you also have a red-hot chance of catching the equally popular mangrove Jack who also behaves like you owe them money once on the line.
Hookabarra Fishing is pretty much a walk-in/walk-out experience as your booking comes complete with rods, reels and tempting lures supplied. The staff are also happy to spend time with you to give you tips on how to land the big ones, some of which are in the magic 1m range.
Despite the on-hand advice and coaching that may be offered from the sidelines, you are on your own as you battle to reel in your potential next family meal.
Once you have landed your prize of course, you have two options after the obligatory photos have been taken.
Mr Gallon said “we take no responsibility for tantrums arising from children catching larger fish than their parents, so be warned”.
“All fish are caught on barbless lures, so they can be returned to the pond or for the more popular choice, you may have your catch weighed, pay the nominated price per kilo, and take them home with you,” he said.
As a suggestion to round out the day, many local restaurants will oblige you by happily cooking your prize for you – for a fee, of course.
It may pay to ask the question in advance before arriving in their kitchen with the catch of the day under your arm.
Having your meal cooked and prepared for you doubles as an excellent opportunity to both enjoy your catch as well as regale all at the table of the mighty battle that resulted in the fine meal before them.
After all, bragging is a major part of a being a fisherman, so grasp the opportunity when it is presented.
Visit www.hookabarra.com for more details.
