Recreational fishing in Cairns

Cairns has a long and proud history as a premier fishing destination and there is an extensive inshore net free zone set aside for recreational fishing.

With recreational fishing a part of daily life for many in our community, Council has welcomed the opportunity to work with key stakeholders to develop the Cairns Recreational Fishing Strategy 2018-2022 ( PDF, 3.35 MB ).

This strategy sets a clear vision for recreational fishing in the region with specific objectives developed for our fisheries habitat and environment, sustainable fisheries development, recreational fishing infrastructure and access, marketing and promotion, and business and event development.

Code of Conduct

A key component of the Cairns Recreational Fishing Strategy 2018-2022 is a Voluntary Code of Conduct ( PDF, 0.38 MB ) which has also been endorsed by Council, Cairns Fishing Community and relevant stakeholders. Cairns is the third Council in Australia to do so.

This code sets out the values that Cairns as a community aspires to, and encourages local and visiting fishers to demonstrate whilst fishing in the regions waters. Council and the working group members strongly encourage everyone to read and understand the values, and sign up to the Voluntary Code of Conduct.

For more information on fishing permits, legislation and rules and regulations visit the Queensland Government's recreational fishing web pages

To view the individual fishing maps, scroll over the icon on the map below or view in related documents.