The rain has continued to fall across the top end of Queensland this month, and coupled with a relentless northerly wind, has made fishing in these parts extremely difficult.

A solid 3m swell with sloppy seas on top has made offshore fishing impossible, forcing anglers into the wind protected areas of Weipa’s estuaries.

The main target species over the past month have been grunter, with reports of large numbers being caught at the usual haunts near the mouth of the Hey River. Live mullet and mud herring have been producing the goods as well as the good old faithful squid.

Fishing from the bank has been the most productive method for grunter this month, making for an easy relaxing outdoor activity – well worth getting out and having a go. A simple rig consisting of a small running ball sinker leading to a 5/O size suicide hook is all you need when hunting these tasty fares.

Those prepared to get the boat out and venture further a field have also produced some quality fish. The opening of the barramundi season drew record crowds to Weipa’s boat ramps, with many eager anglers trying their luck for the first fish of the season.

Reports of some great specimens have been flowing in, suggesting another great season ahead. The flooding Myall Creek has produced some nice barra for those willing to make the 40 minute drive, as has Trunding Creek.

Queenfish have been out in numbers with the rain pushing fresh bait stocks into the estuaries, and make for an exciting intermission while fishing for barra.

Fishing in March will depend largely on weather and the amount of fresh in the river systems. The bait in the bay should see the return of the longtail tuna and Spanish macks, and I would also expect to see some great size queenfish patrolling the river mouths.

With the return of the southeast trade winds due anytime this month, I would expect to see the swell disappear and the beaches provide some awesome fishing. Keep an eye out on the weather, as the usual electrical storms can be quite nasty this time of year.

Barramundi should be relatively easy to locate, and with the season now open they will be a popular target fish for anglers. Try rocky headlands and mangrove banks located close to the mouth of the rivers. Again, shallow diving lures and live mullet will produce best results. So get out and have a go, best of luck for March fishing!