Fishing

The Burke Shire is renowned as a destination for recreational fishers. Along with the iconic Barramundi, there are many other fish species and crabs and prawns that are found in our creeks and rivers as well as the waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria.  Before heading out on our remote waters please let someone know your plan, check the weather and take a reliable emergency communication device.

As size and possession limits are subject to change under Queensland law, the Burke Shire recommends for consistently accurate information you refer to the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website - Recreational Fishing Rules.

Tides  

  • Burketown wharf tides are approximately 3.5 hours behind Karumba. 
  • Albert River mouth tides are approximately 2 hours behind Karumba and the most reliable. 

 

Download the Queensland Recreational Fishing App 

Have instant access to Queensland’s fishing rules anytime and anywhere. The Queensland Recreational Fishing App provides up-to-date information on recreational fishing rules and regulations in Queensland, including size and possession limits, species identification, closed seasons, closed water and stocked impoundment maps, angler diary, and access to tide and weather information. Fishing rules at your fingertips – download the free Qld Fishing 2.0 app via the App Store or Google Play.

More information regarding recreational fishing can be found at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Important Information About Seasonal Closure - Barramundi 

Barramundi season rules apply throughout the water of the Gulf of Carpentaria, including all waterways in Burke Shire. 

  • Queensland East Coast: barramundi closed season – 1 November to 31 January 
  • Gulf of Carpentaria: barramundi closed season – 7 October to 31 January 
  • You can’t target barramundi for catch and release during these closed seasons, as the stress of capture may prevent a fish from spawning