The Gold Coast is famous for its golden beaches and lively surf, but it’s also a top spot for fishing. With its rivers, estuaries, and open ocean, there’s something for every type of angler.

Fishing here isn’t just about the catch – it’s about enjoying the outdoors, breathing in the salty sea air, and soaking up the laid-back coastal vibe.

In this guide, we’ll share seven of the best fishing spots in Gold Coast. These fishing spots are easy to access and ideal for anyone keen to spend a day by the water, rod in hand, ready for the next great catch.

Best Fishing Spots in Gold Coast

1- Gold Coast Seaway

Gold Coast Seaway is one of the most popular fishing spots in the Gold Coast, connecting the city’s canals to the open sea.

This large waterway offers several access points, including The Spit, South Stradbroke Island, and Wave Break Island, making it an ideal fishing spot for anglers of all skill levels.

The current here is strong, so beginners should avoid fishing directly from the rocks for safety.

The seaway’s diverse fish population is a major draw. From the shore, you can catch garfish, flathead, and even crabs around aquatic plants.

More experienced fishers targeting deeper waters might hook trevally, mangrove jack, or jewfish.

If you’re fishing by boat, you could land a powerful kingfish while exploring nearby reefs and blue water areas.

2- Snapper Rocks

Snapper Rocks is a prime fishing location in the Gold Coast thanks to its proximity to Kirra Reef.

You can fish directly from the rocky outcrops for pelagic species, but be cautious—this area often experiences strong swells.

If you prefer a safer spot, cast from the surrounding beaches or try the northern gutter close to shore.

Just south of Duranbah, the Tweed River rock wall offers another excellent fishing opportunity.

Snapper Rocks is best known for tailor, kingfish, and cobia, making it a hotspot for anglers looking for a challenging catch.

Safety should be a priority here, so wear sturdy shoes and bring a long-handled net for handling fish on the slippery rocks.

Snapper Rocks is a rewarding spot with exciting fishing action.

Also Read: Best Fishing Spots in Sydney

3- Tallebudgera Creek

Tallebudgera Creek, meaning “good fish” in the local Yugambeh language, lives up to its name with excellent fishing opportunities.

On the southern end, where the creek meets the ocean, you can fish from the Tallebudgera Seawall or move slightly inland to cast a line from the Tallebudgera Creek Bridge.

Further along Tallebudgera Drive, you’ll find sandy flats and quiet banks that are ideal for shore fishing.

This fishing spot is perfect for targeting bream, flathead, and whiting, especially at high tide.

The creek is surrounded by calm waters, making it a great choice for families or beginner anglers.

Whether you’re fishing from shore or a small kayak, Tallebudgera Creek offers a relaxing and rewarding fishing experience.

4- Jacobs Well

Jacobs Well is located at the northern tip of the Gold Coast, about a 10-minute drive from the Pacific Highway through scenic cane fields.

This charming village offers direct access to the Moreton Bay Marine Park, one of Australia’s largest and most diverse estuarine systems.

The waters here are rich with bream, whiting, flathead, yabbies, and crabs, making it a year-round fishing haven.

Shore fishing from jetties or nearby banks can yield good results, but exploring by boat opens up even more opportunities.

The area features a maze of creeks, channels, and islands, offering endless places to cast a line.

For those looking for calm, productive waters away from city crowds, Jacobs Well is a must-visit.

Also Explore: Things to Do in Gold Coast

5- Lake Orr

Lake Orr, located in the central suburbs of Robina and Varsity Lakes, is an unexpected yet great fishing spot.

This man-made lake is home to species like bream, flathead, and trevally, making it a favorite among locals.

You can access the lake easily via foreshore parks and boardwalks along Varsity Parade, or try fishing from the pedestrian bridge near Lake Orr Drive.

While it’s a peaceful location for fishing, swimming is strongly discouraged due to the presence of bull sharks.

With its calm waters and urban setting, Lake Orr is a convenient and reliable fishing destination for anyone looking to go on a quick trip without traveling far from the city.

6- Jumpinpin

Jumpinpin, or “The Pin,” is located between North and South Stradbroke Islands and offers a serene fishing experience.

This tidal channel is known for its deep waters, strong currents, and excellent fish diversity.

Yabbies are abundant here, attracting predator fish like mulloway, flathead, and whiting.

You can also catch bream, mangrove jack, and jewfish, while crab pots near mangroves are perfect for collecting mud crabs.

Though it requires some travel, the area around Kalinga Bank, Crusoe, and Stingaree Islands offers incredible fishing opportunities.

With its clear waters and remote setting, Jumpinpin is one of the best fishing spots in the Gold Coast for anglers who want to leave the city behind and enjoy a peaceful, productive fishing trip.

Also Read: Best Fishing Spots in Adelaide

7- Southport Pier

Southport Pier is a local landmark and one of the best land-based fishing spots in the Gold Coast.

It offers direct access to deep water without needing a boat, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned fishers alike.

Common catches include squid, trevally, and dart, especially around the pier’s lights at night, which attract schools of baitfish—and the predators chasing them.

The spot is easily accessible, with affordable parking and beautiful Broadwater views as an added bonus.

Whether you’re fishing during the day or at night, Southport Pier provides a convenient and rewarding experience for anyone looking to enjoy the Gold Coast’s amazing fishing scene.