The 2025 barramundi season has launched with unprecedented anticipation following an extraordinary 800% increase in trophy catches during 2024.

Located in the heart of Central Queensland, Rockhampton's Fitzroy River (Tunuba) is famous for Barramundi, pronounced “bardda moon di” by the Darumbal people, has reinforced its status as Australia's Barramundi Capital, with scientific monitoring revealing exceptional results. Most notably, an unprecedented number of metre-plus barramundi were landed in the city reach during 2024, with strong catch-and-release rates demonstrating the success of local conservation efforts.

The river's Net Free Zone has transformed Rockhampton into a premier fishing destination, attracting serious domestic anglers from Cairns to Melbourne. Visitor numbers have tripled since its introduction, with particularly strong growth from Southeast Queensland and international markets including USA and Asia.

No boat? No worries! Rockhampton is has a number of fully catered fishing charters and dry boat hire options available to get you on the water chasing trophy barra in no time, or take advantage of one of our land-based fishing platforms.

Key highlights:

• Season runs 1 February - 31 October 2025
• Direct flights from Brisbane put anglers on the water within 2 hours
• New infrastructure including boat ramps at Inkerman Creek and Casuarina Creek
• Over 6,000 fingerlings released in 2024 supporting future sustainability
• More than 300 days of sunshine annually
• Trophy catches possible right in Rockhampton's CBD

For visiting journalists:

• High-res images and B-roll available
• Local expert interviews can be arranged
• Charter experiences available for media
• Full campaign media kit
• Additional information: fishingthefitzroy.com.au

Read the full barra season media release here: https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/AboutCouncil/News-and-announcements/Latest-News/Barra-Season-is-here

Read more about the best fishing locations and charters in the region here: http://www.fishingthefitzroy.com.au

Download the campaign media kit https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/qrun5zedj7rd8nod3od3z/h?rlkey=6lh7npt39ghb3eomik9ljg4h1&dl=0

Media contact: tourism@rrc.qld.gov.au