In Australia, barramundi can be found along the northern coast, from the Exmouth Gulf in Western Australia to the Mary and Maroochy River systems in Queensland. [2] X Research source
Try to schedule your fishing trip at times around a full or new moon. During these times, tidal ranges are larger, and you’ll be more likely to get a bite. You can find out when there will be a full or new moon by looking at a moon phase calendar online, such as the one published on almanac. com. [4] X Research source
Anglers tend to have the best luck catching barramundi in areas 25–75 kilometres (25,000–75,000 m) upstream from the ocean, in the transition zone between salt and fresh water. [6] X Research source You can troll for barramundi from a boat or try to catch them from the shore. The average length of a mature barramundi ranges from 65–125 centimetres (26–49 in). Barramundi change sex from male to female during their lifespan, usually around the time they reach 90 centimetres (35 in) in length, so most barramundi over 100 centimetres (39 in) are female.
Listen for barramundi splashing at around sunset as they begin to feed on the surface of the water. Be sure to take extra precautions when fishing at night. Ask someone to go with you and let a friend or family member know where you’ll be going and when you plan to return. Take flashlights and insect repellant. Avoid fishing in areas that crocodiles are known to frequent. [8] X Research source
If you’re just using a lure, you may have luck with a steel trace. Opt mono if you’re using live bait. Choose fishing line with a break strength of between 20–30 pounds (9. 1–13. 6 kg) when fishing for barramundi. [11] X Research source
If you’re not having luck with minnow lures, try switching your lures to see what works best. If you’re fishing in an area with a lot of water lilies, for example, you might want to try using a small frog lure. Anglers have also had luck using surface popper lures, which simulate the movement of mullet. Also, try a variety of minnow lures of different sizes and colors. [13] X Research source
Cherabin, or giant river prawn, are the most popular type of live bait for barramundi anglers.
You may also have luck fishing in deep holes or at intersections of different flows of water.
While you want to reel in slowly, make sure you still reel in at a speed that’s fast enough for your lure’s swimming action to work. You might also want to try varying the speed of your retrieval. As you reel in, twitch your rod occasionally to catch the attention of nearby barramundi.
There’s no set amount of time you should fish at a location before giving up. Before giving up, however, try a variety of lures and live bait and alter your reeling-in speed. [19] X Research source
