"

Wrotham Park: the perfect escape
  |  First Published: September 2005



Central Queensland and the Top End have some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, and recently I had the opportunity to visit Wrotham Park and its surrounding estuaries, the Walsh and Mitchell river systems. This month’s article will outline my trip to the region and the fishing options in the area.

Fishing Applications

The fishing opportunities in this area are second to none; all you need to take home a feed is persistence. Barramundi, saratoga and tarpon frequent these waters and they provide an exhilarating fight to the boat or bank. These fish were quite picky when it came to soft plastics and hard-bodied lures. I experimented with quite a few combinations of jighead weights and colour variations, and found the fish jumped all over gold and black plastics and hard-bodies.

When fishing the deep holes along the bank, we found the barra holding quite tight to the timber. After a few casts, it was obvious that gold Bombers were the only lures stirring the fish.

Poppers also seemed to work quite well on tarpon, especially the lighter colours.

Dangers

When fishing up here there are a few dangers to consider. Freshwater crocodiles live in this region and have been known to attack humans, so take the proper precautions when you’re fishing off the bank or off structure such as felled trees and rocks. (We have been informed of SALTWATER crocodiles in this area, please ensure your safety at all times. ED)

Large wild pigs also live in the area, and it’s common to spot them roaming the river banks in large packs. Use common sense in this situation as these animals can inflict serious injury on unsuspecting fishermen.

During summer, taipans and king browns are also quite common in this area. These snakes can kill an adult in minutes, so when you’re walking between fishing spots you have to be alert.

Scrub bulls are also quite frequent in areas surrounding the Mitchell River. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable, and should be avoided.

Location, location, location

The Mitchell River provides stacks of different fishing options. Whether it’s from a tinny, kayak or from the bank, this area has it covered.

Exploring the river banks is a great way to discover felled timber and fishy structure. During my stay at Wrotham Park the majority of my fishing was done from the bank, as I didn’t have access to a boat. It didn’t matter though – I ended up with some good catches of barra and saratoga.

The Mitchell River and surrounding tributaries provide anglers with endless opportunities. Whether it’s casting flies, poppers or plastics the fishing in this region is unreal. Wrotham Park is defiantly a location worth considering for your next fishing junket or family holiday. Just remember to time your trip right, as during the wet season the roads are closed and fishing spots become limited. It’s also good to talk to people in the know before you set out.

Over the next three months I will be covering the Gove Peninsula in a three-part article. Until then, good fishing to all you junior anglers out there.

[CAPTIONS]

1) A prime example of felled timber and fishy structure.

2) You don’t need a boat to catch fish from the Mitchell River.

3) One of the many family swimming holes.

Reads: 4852

Matched Content ... powered by Google