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Karumba. A small town in the Gulf of Carpentaria, and a 748km drive from Cairns. Located on the western gulf, this is one of the few places in Queensland where you can watch the sun set into the sea, but views aside, most people go to Karumba for one reason – the fishing! All the bucket list species thrive in the clear blue waters here, barra, salmon, snapper, mackerel and more, which you can try to catch from the beach, your boat or on a charter. We don’t have a boat, so signed up for a half-day charter with the team at Kerry D. We landed a few, so without further ado, let’s hook into our Karumba Fishing Charter Review.
The one that didn’t get away! Richard was pretty chuffed to reel in this Blue Salmon on a half day Kerry D Karumba fishing charter. This was easy fishing, with everything supplied and included, with the option to keep the catch. We left at 7am back at 12.30pm. Boom.
We did the half day Karumba fishing charter with the team at Kerry D, which went from 7am until 12.30pm. We met our guides and captain for the day at the Karumba Point boat ramp, which is close to the Karumba Point Caravan Park where we were staying. They had 2 boats running that day, both of which accommodated around 8 people on the charter. Access to the boats was via a small ramp, either from the beach or the boat ramp, either way you kept your feet nice and dry. All the equipment was supplied and the crew were on hand throughout the charter to assist with every aspect of fishing, from putting the bait on your line to getting the photos of you with your catch of the day.
“I love being out on the ocean. I am not usually a keen angler and don’t do it all the time, so when I do go fishing, I really appreciate being on a boat where all the support, equipment and assistance is provided. It lets me just focus on having a good time with my son and enjoy the fishing, without all the hard work (or having to buy a boat). The Kerry D was a comfortable boat, with lots of space for everyone, and all the equipment was well maintained. The crew were really nice and helpful, and they genuinely wanted everyone to have a good time and catch and some fish. It was a great morning at sea and we came back with smiles for miles.” – Richard Johnston
Karumba fishing is considered some of the best in the state, and lots of Cairns people head to the Gulf to try and land some bucket list fish. The location itself is very scenic; this small coastal town on the western gulf has sandy beaches and some very speccy sunrise and sunsets. We enjoyed one of those from the deck of the Kerry D, as we headed out the Leeds and put our lines in the water. Our son Ethan kicked off his fishing action with a small shark, which he thought was very cool. After spending some time here, catching a few more sharks and catfish (which were all released), we headed over to what is known as ‘Desperation Point’, although there was nothing desperate about it. A few minutes after arriving it was ‘fish on’ and Ethan and Richard both landed several impressive blue salmon (which were keepers). Karumba fishing is known for its barramundi, and while they didn’t catch any on this day – there were lots of others that did – and all agreed that this was an excellent morning spent fishing.
The Kerry D boat is perfectly equipped for fishing charters, with lots of space for everyone, and all of the equipment was supplied in conjunction with the price, including rods, bait and hooks. The owners, and our crew – Jemma and Ben – were incredibly helpful throughout the whole charter, which ensured that everyone, regardless of their fishing experience, had a great time. A light morning tea snack was provided, which included quiches, cake, and oranges and soft drinks and water were readily available throughout the trip.
The Kerry D Karumba fishing charter business is owned and operated by a young couple, Ben and Jemma. They were exceptional hosts during our half day trip, ensuring everyone had a fantastic time. Their expertise and passion for fishing, and Karumba tourism, were evident throughout the day. Their friendly demeanour and willingness to share their knowledge about the local area and provide some top tips on the best fishing techniques for the waters we were in, greatly enhanced the overall experience.
In our opinion and based on our experience, the Kerry D Karumba fishing charter is suitable for adults and children of all fishing levels. Jemma and Ben were really helpful and supportive of all guests and were particularly accommodating with our son, Ethan, and made sure he was comfortable and engaged throughout the trip. Ethan and Richard had a fantastic time, the highlight of which was catching the blue salmon!
Check the smile on the dial! Landing this blue salmon was the absolute highlight of Ethan’s time on the Kerry D Karumba fishing charter. We don’t fish often, but this boy seems to land some great fish every time he hits the water.
It’s recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a camera / mobile to capture your catches. If you prefer your own snacks, you are welcome to bring them along, but they do supply morning tea.
Yes, Kerry D Fishing Charters provides all necessary fishing equipment, including rods, bait, and hooks.
Absolutely! This Karumba fishing charter is family-friendly, and the crew is great with kids. My 11-year-old son, Ethan, had a fantastic time.
No problem! The crew on the Kerry D Karumba fishing charter are very helpful and will assist you with everything from baiting your hook to netting your catch – and getting the all important photo.
Yes, the Kerry D Karumba fishing charter boats are equipped with a toilet for your convenience.
Safety is a top priority. If the weather is deemed unsafe, the charter may be rescheduled or canceled, and you will be informed in advance.
Depending on the season, you can expect to catch a variety of fish, including mackerel, black jew, blue salmon, queenfish, grunter, fingermark, catfish, and occasionally shark. It was not Barramundi season during our trip, which may have affected the variety of fish caught.
The charter departs from the boat ramp at Karumba Point, close to the Karumba Point Caravan Park.
I had the best time on our Karumba fishing charter and am pretty sure I caught the biggest fish of the whole day! Before we went on the trip, all the kids at school said the fishing at Karumba was awesome – now I’ve been – I agree. It was cold in the morning when we got on the boat, but I guess it was winter – I was happy to have my tracksuit pants and Mum’s jumper. This was a super fun thing to do with Dad!
The Kerry D Karumba fishing charter is a locally owned and operated business. It operates 7 days a week and you can do a half day or full day fishing. Everything is supplied and included, and you can keep what you catch, assuming it meets all appropriate size and catch guidelines. The boat does have a toilet for your convenience. Karumba gets pretty busy, so you definitely need to book ahead to avoid disappointment. You can not book online, you need to give them a call on 0427 459 275.
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