With the mercury continuing to rise and El Nina soon to be left in the wake, the country is set to see a warm start to 2023 – bringing a welcomed weather-change for the tail-end of Australia’s peak boating season.
Home to arguably some of the best boating locations in the world, and renowned for its diversity of game fishing, boating is a popular pastime for families, fishos and adventurers alike.
An unparallel outlet for holidaying from home, exploring the Australian backyard and connecting with loved ones, boating is said to be one of the most wholesome, invigorating, and accessible hobbies for thousands of locals.
To help the Australian boating community make the most of the warmer months and make waves this New Year, Quintrex highlights some of the top boating destinations in the country, as recommended by long-term ambassador and fishing legend Michael Guest.
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Some of our favourite fish like Barramundi, Flathead, Mangrove Jack, Whiting, and Bass all love the warmer water.
Queensland Barramundi impoundments
Summer brings the south-easterly trade winds to Queensland’s coastline so, having a well-stocked fishery of big Barra out of the wind is a great summer option. Impoundments like Lake Awoonga, west of Gladstone, or further north at Lake Kinchant, just inland from Mackay, are great examples. Early morning / late evening with top water lures, casting suspending hardbodies or rolling soft plastics will all work.
The great thing is there are no crocs, so the dams also make a great place to cool off during summer - go for a ski or tow a tube around for the kids. The impoundments can be safely accessed with small car toppers though keep an eye on the wind. I really like fishing the impoundments with the Frontier range, the big casting platform gives you truckloads of room to fire a cast around for a tenacious Barra. Two of my mates do all their impoundment fishing from Hornet’s and Explorer’s, once again they’re so well suited to casting lures for a big Barra.
All the QLD impoundments that I’ve been to have well-constructed boat ramps, some with camping available and others with accommodation options close by.
Mid-North Coast River Towns
Further south around the mid-north coast of New South Wales the trade winds switch to the northeast, with fishing boating options offshore generally better in the morning before the breeze kicks in. River based towns like Southwest Rocks and Port Macquarie offer great summer fishing and boating options.
Once again, I like to have the ability to duck out into the blue when the conditions are right but then have the option to go crabbing or target some of my favourites like Flathead, Mulloway or even Bass. The boat ramps can get a little busy around the holiday period, though the afternoons are quite often less busy than the mornings.
The warmer water kicks the flatties into gear with 3–4-inch soft plastics in paddle or curly tail patterns a consistent fish catcher. Prawn style imitation lures also account for plenty of fish especially around the dark of the moon.
If you’re up for an adventure a run up the river into the freshwater is well worth a look to chase an aussie Bass. Try using cicada style surface lures along the bank and around the snags early or late in the day.
Having the option to head offshore to catch a Mackerel or even a Marlin adds another string to the fishing options available. I like the Top Ender’s and Renegade’s for tackling the coastal bars and both models really fit that crossover category.
If you’re planning a trip it pays to book your accommodation early especially in the holiday periods, though once school starts back things get a little less hectic.
Stay safe on the water, cheers Guesty.
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Founded in 1971, Quintrex has established itself as the most sought-after boat brand in Australia, delivering an unparalleled line-up of 11 different model ranges, crafted to suit every lifestyle.
“Designed from decades of boating expertise, the entire Quintrex range is not only purpose built but created to exceed common norms,” Jasmine Buck, Quintrex Brand Advisor said.
“Quintrex is underpinned by a pride in quality and longevity of its products, to support the generational hand-down of the boating lifestyle. We are about family and making boating possible for everyone – whether new or old into the industry.”
An easy boat buying process has been made possible with Quintrex’s preconfigured Boat Bundles. Designed to suit three distinct categories of consumer demand; fishing, entertaining/family and driver experience, the most suitable bundle(s) can simply be added onto select Quintrex boats. Alternatively, the Pro model offers all the bells and whistles for an easy premium boat option.
All Quintrex boats also come available to purchase as a fully packaged, drive-away boat, motor and trailer unit that is configured from the Gold Coast factory. All trailers are built specifically for its paired boat, fitted together within the factory by a specialist team before continuing through the manufacturing line.
With a widespread network of Quintrex dealers, strategically located across the country, the brand strives towards making Quintrex boats and expert boating knowledge always within close reach.
With a rich history of innovation and reinstating the standard of boating, and now owned by BRP; global leader in powersports, Quintrex paves the way for an exciting future ahead.
Explore the range at www.quintrex.com.au or contact your local dealer today to purchase your own today.