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Anglers hoping to throw a line into the 20th annual Cardwell Barra Bonanza will need to get their entries in soon, with registrations already approaching 80 per cent.
The Cairns Hardware Cardwell Barra Bonanza will return from October 22nd to 24th, bringing anglers together for one of North Queensland’s major catch-and-release sportfishing competitions.
With places filling quickly, organisers are encouraging anyone planning to compete to register now rather than risk missing out. The 2026 event also offers plenty of incentive to get involved, with a major prize boat among the prizes available to entrants.
The senior entrant prize is a custom wrapped 440 Quintrex Busta Boat and Trailer Package fitted with a 60hp Yamaha tiller-steer motor, valued at nearly $40,000.
Anglers will also be competing for the prestigious John Carter Trophy for Grand Champion Barramundi, with awards recognising senior and junior champions, runners-up, teams and veteran anglers.
There will be prizes for anglers recording the largest accumulated lengths of Mangrove Jack, Javelin Fish and Threadfin Salmon, as well as Mystery Length and Best Photo awards.
Teams can include two or three anglers, with no requirement for all team members to fish from the same boat.
The briefing night is Thursday, 22rd October at 6pm, at the Cardwell Community Centre where entrants are required to collect their entrant's bag with their shirt, brag mat, name tag (with number) and the rules. One person from each team must attend the briefing night.
The fishing begins at 6am on Friday, 23rd October, with submissions closing at 4pm on Saturday, 24th October.
And for those chasing even more chances to win, the event’s Mega Raffle offers three tickets for $5, with prizes including vouchers, accommodation, tours and gift packs from businesses across the region.
With registrations already nearing capacity, anglers are encouraged to secure their spot now. Register at cardwellsportfishingclub.com.au
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