Spanish Mackerel Season Open for Business

Good news for Hinchinbrook fishers — Spanish mackerel season in southern east coast waters reopened on Sunday, 22 February.

Following the first seasonal closure, recreational anglers can once again target Spanish mackerel in east coast waters south of latitude 22˚S (just north of Stanage Bay). The reopening provides a short window of opportunity, with a second closure set to take effect from 1 to 21 March inclusive.

Local fishers planning to head offshore are encouraged to make the most of the reopening while ensuring they remain within size and possession limits.

Current regulations require a minimum size of 75cm, with strict bag limits of one fish per person, or four per boat when four or more people are onboard.

Seasonal closures are designed to protect breeding stocks and ensure the long-term sustainability of popular species such as Spanish mackerel, which are a prized catch along the North Queensland coastline.

Fishers are reminded that other species remain subject to separate closed seasons throughout the year, and penalties apply for non-compliance.

For the latest information on closures, size limits and regulated waters, anglers can download the Queensland fishing 2.0 app or visit the fisheries section of the Queensland Government website.

Checking the rules before heading out helps protect local fisheries and ensures Hinchinbrook’s strong recreational fishing culture can continue for years to come.

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