An Angler's Guide To
Fishing The World's Trophy Hot Spots
Fishing Lake Tinaroo, North Queensland, Australia
At right is the largest Barramundi catch ever recorded in the world. It was hauled in by David Powell on Lake Tinaroo in September of 1999.
Tinaroo (Lake), North, Queensland, Australia
"Several years ago the Queensland Department of Primary Industry wisely decided to stock the lake with both barramundi and sooty grunter as part of its Recreational Freshwater Fishing Enhancement Program. The Tableland Fish Stocking Society was born and after much lobbying, fund raising and a hell of a lot of hard volunteer work, thousands of fingerlings were released about 6 years ago. Both species thrived in the food rich waters and grew fat, but not lazy.
Phenomenal growth rates from these fish have been observed. Barra to over 50lbs are a regular capture now, and have grown that big in less than ten years. Sooty's are monsters here as well, with the world record fish of over 12lbs having been caught here from the tops of drowned timber.
Don't let anyone tell you that impoundment fish don't fight! There are many lightening strikes and strong prolonged runs from these fish, and light tackle is not the go here. Strong, medium length baitcasting or spinning gear, loaded with at least 10kg line is required as is hardy lures with beefed up hooks and rings.
With all these positives there must be a down side. Barramundi are fairly inactive in cold water and Lake Tinaroo is in the mountains and subject to a much greater temperature variation that coastal waters. During the cooler months they are almost impossible to catch, while during the summer the conditions must be almost perfect to be able to target these fish with any confidence. Persistence is the key." Extract in quotes taken from FishingCairns.com/au
Atherton Tablelands - Lake Tinaroo