Planning to go fishing at Tangalooma on Moreton Island?
It’s a ripper spot for a fish, but there are a few rules you need to follow to keep things safe and sustainable.
Tangalooma sits within the Moreton Bay Marine Park, so different zones have different rules. Let’s break it down.
🗺️ Marine Park Zones – Know Where You Are
There are four types of zones in the marine park, each with its own rules:
✅ General Use Zone (Light Blue)
You can fish, crab, boat, and even trawl here.
🐟 Habitat Protection Zone (Dark Blue)
Fishing and crabbing are okay.
Trawling is not allowed to protect seagrass and coral.
⚠️ Conservation Park Zone (Yellow)
You can fish, but with limits.
Max 2 rods and 2 hooks per person.
Max 4 crab pots each.
🚫 Marine National Park Zone (Green)
No fishing, no crabbing, no bait collecting – nothing.
You can still swim, snorkel, or boat, but keep your lines packed away.
Tip: These zones aren’t marked in the water, so use the Marine Parks App or check the zoning maps before casting a line.
🐠 Size & Bag Limits – What You Can Keep
Fishing in Queensland comes with species rules. Here’s a quick look at some common catches:
Grass Sweetlip – Min size: 30 cm | Bag limit: 10
Spangled Sweetlip – Min size: 45 cm | Bag limit: 5
Mackerel – Min size: 50 cm | Bag limit: 10
Bream – Min size: 25 cm | Bag limit: 10
Always check the latest rules on the QLD Fisheries website or download the QLD Fishing 2.0 app.
❌ No-Go Areas & Safety Tips
Some areas around Tangalooma are off-limits for good reason.
🚫 Dolphin Feeding Zone (Tangalooma Resort)
No fishing, swimming, or even snorkelling allowed. It’s strictly protected.
🚫 Tangalooma Wrecks
Great for snorkelling, but you can’t anchor or fish right in this zone.
🦈 Shark Safety
Sharks have been spotted in the area, especially near the Wrecks.
Don’t swim alone or fish where people are feeding fish.
🎒 Handy Fishing Gear Suggestions
If you are new to fishing or just want reliable gear, here are a few solid picks:
Sougayilang Telescopic Rod Kit – Great for travel, comes with reel and bag – around $120 AUD.
Saltwater Lures Combo – Budget-friendly starter set for beginners – about $15 AUD.
Complete Fishing Pole Kit – All-in-one with rod, reel, and extras – roughly $140 AUD.
Available from places like Amazon or local tackle shops.
📱 Useful Tools Before You Head Out
Marine Parks Southern QLD App – Check zone maps and what’s allowed.
QLD Fishing 2.0 App – Keep up-to-date with fishing rules and bag limits.
🐟 Final Word
Fishing at Tangalooma is a top way to enjoy the coast, but it’s up to all of us to follow the rules and look after the marine life. Know the zones, check your limits, and fish responsibly.
Happy fishing, mate! 🎣
