Sitting pretty on the western coast of Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula, Weipa is a town created by industry, but defined by its absolute beauty. The beautiful reds of the land contrast the deep blues of the Gulf of Carpentaria; truly a remarkable place. Many live there to work in the mines, but if they’re not mining, you can nearly guarantee they will be out fishing.
Weipa’s colourful coastline and wonderful waterways play host to numerous species of fish, making it the perfect place to hold one of the nation’s largest fishing competitions, the Weipa Fishing Classic.
Held every year for over a decade, the Classic is an event that caters for all ages, skill levels and styles. Some go out wide, chasing big pelagics or game fish, whereas others head up one of the many tributaries off the mighty Mission River to chase the iconic barra, as well as queenfish, mangrove jack, fingermark and grunter. Fish are either measured by weight, or for the sports fish (trevally, billfish) the length is recorded, photo taken and then presented to the judges.
Fishos have the opportunity to win a number of daily species prizes, with dozens of rod and reel combos being donated this year by Shimano. However, you don’t have to be entered into the Classic to take home a prize! You can go into the raffle to win a raft of awesome prizes donated by local business, including 30 major prizes, with the first being a SeaJay boat!
Tips for the Weipa Fishing Classic
Many fishermen make the pilgrimage from all over the country, so why don’t you? We recommend staying at the Weipa Caravan Park and Camping ground. There are acres of beautiful campground with tidy facilities, or an array of villas if that is more your pace.
If you’re thinking of coming up to Weipa for a fish, why not hook up with a guide? While we were in town filming the classic, Darren Redman from DJ’s Xstream Fishing Charters showed us the ropes. Darren has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Weipa’s fishy secret spots, and has a beautifully comfy boat that is suited to anything from river to deeper-sea expeditions.
Of course, you can find all the details for the 2020 Classic on the competition’s official website. Good luck!
