Which Kimberley ships offer fishing
One of the questions we often get asked by clients is whether they can go fishing on their Kimberley cruise. The Kimberley Coast is renowned for its fantastic fishing. From the iconic Barramundi through to Mangrove Jack, Fingermark, Giant Trevally, Queenies and more – it’s little wonder anglers are excited to have the opportunity to cast a line in these bountiful waters.
Not every ship cruising the Kimberley Coast offers the option to fish though. It’s important to tell us when planning your trip if fishing is a priority. Some ships don’t have licenses to fish, others don’t have the equipment and some simply don’t have the time or flexibility in their itinerary to allow for it.
The ships that focus on fishing tend to be the smaller vessels, where fewer guest numbers mean more flexibility with the itinerary. Smaller vessels also tend to be ‘owner-operated’, crewed by locals who know the spots fish are likely to be biting. And often they love to fish themselves. With that in mind, the ships we recommend for serious fisherman include True North, Great Escape, Kimberley Quest II, Kimberley Pearl, Ocean Dream, Diversity and Odyssey.
The great thing about travelling on one of these smaller vessels is that you can do as much fishing as you want. Just say the word and the crew will have you up bright and early and in to a ‘tinny’, heading off to a secret spot ‘where the big barra bite’! They also have high quality equipment already on board and there’s no need to bring your own from home.
Of course, even though you will have ample time for fishing, it doesn’t mean you will miss out on any of the sights during the voyage. You’ll have plenty of time to see everything, and still get some good fishing in.
Another option is a dedicated fishing expedition cruise. These are offered several times each year by vessels such as True North, Kimberley Quest and Great Escape. True North’s 8-day ‘Barra Bonanza’ targets Barramundi, and is a great option for keen sports fishers after their next thrill.
I still thank back to my first morning of fishing aboard the Kimberley Quest II. In little more than two hours, this novice's haul was thirteen good size Mangrove Jack and Fingermark. Not bad for a first timer! The chef also appreciated my efforts, promptly served up a seafood feast onboard that night.
Of the slightly larger ships cruising the Kimberley Coast, Coral Discoverer and Coral Adventurer offer a couple of fishing excursions each trip – using hand reels only. Fish are caught on a ‘catch and release’ basis so you wont be able to tuck in to your catch for dinner. Fishing isn’t a priority however.
Larger ships, such as Caledonian Sky and the new Ponant vessels aren’t equipped for fishing and are best avoided if wanting to throw a line.
Let us help you start planning your ultimate Kimberley fishing adventure by calling today on 1800 90 20 80.
