Everything you need to know about the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic

Bring your friends, family and fishing rods, as the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic is going to be a REELy exciting event!

What is the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic?

The Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic is an event for all ages

The Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic is a must do for any outdoor enthusiast. Situated between the picturesque red rock hills of the Selwyn Ranges, the event is run by the Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group and has grown considerably since its humble beginnings in 1999. Add in that the three day event boasts the title of ‘Queensland richest freshwater fishing competition’, and you see thousands of competitors and visitors flock to Lake Moondarra annually. Mark your calendars for October.

Boasting a line-up of on and off shore entertainment to rival many major fishing tournaments, organisers also pride themselves on offering something for all tastes and living up to their slogan of ‘Fishing is just the beginning!’

What can I win?

Lake Moondarra is home to Sooty Gunter, the elusive Sleepy Cod, Longtom, Perch and Catfish. Winner of the ‘Heaviest Barra Competition’ featured

Nominated competitors can try their luck at landing thousands of dollars in prizes, trophies and cash, with over 20 categories including junior and senior classes and mystery weights. Don’t forget that a whopping $50,000 is up for grabs for the lucky angler who manages to snag the infamous Tagged Barra.

What does it cost?

You’ll be required to pay a small nomination fee. Not only does this money raise funds for future events, but entitles you to complimentary camping at designated areas of the Lake. That’s a small price to pay for shaded views, picnic huts, hot and cold shower facilities, the lookout, grassy park areas and time with the family.

How do I enter?

Nominations for the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic will open ONE week out from the competition. Contact the locals of Tool n Tackle and Outback at Mount Isa, OR visit the nomination tent at Lake Moondarra. There’s plenty of time, as nominations can be placed right up to the close of fishing on Sunday.

I don’t plan to bring a rod, what else can I do?

Yabby Races are just one of the fun activities at the Fishing Classic

Never fear mate! For spectators and those not as keen to wet a line, you can still enjoy a number of activities and entertainment:

  • Fireworks Spectacular
  • DIY Dragon Boat Regatta
  • Beach Volleyball Competition
  • Yabby races
  • Casting competitions
  • Live bands
  • Trade exhibits
  • Swimming
  • Kayaking and canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Food, drink and bar facilities

How do I get to Mount Isa?

Lake Moondarra is a manmade attraction and is located just 15km outside of Mount Isa

You’ll find Queensland’s most famous mining town just 200 kilometres from the Northern Territory border, 1,829km from Brisbane and 883km inland from Townsville (that’s ‘down the road’ for our locals here). Catch direct flights from Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, Darwin and the Gold Coast. Not to mention rail and coach services are available from many major cities and towns too.

What else can I do in Mount Isa?

Mount Isa boasts a metropolitan feel with trendy bars, coffee houses and boutique shops. Don’t forget to check out the many beautiful natural wonders that surround the region, or better yet, stay in town for the Hard Times Mining Tour at the Visitor Information Centre.

Where can I stay?

http://www.accorhotels.com/0575

If you’re not a fan of camping, don’t hesitate! Mount Isa has a wide variety of accommodation available ranging from four and a half star hotels to motels, caravan parks and backpacker hostels. We highly recommend checking out TripAdvisor for suggestions of places to stay.

Need more info?

Contact our mates from the Mount Isa Fish Stocking group by visiting this page.

Don’t forget that the locals at the Outback at Mount Isa Visitor Information Centre are also there to lend a hand: (07) 4749 1555