Barra Season is back for the Mackay Isaac region
Sunday, 1st February officially marks the opening of the 2026 barramundi season. With the blue Pioneer River now “open for business” following the recent weather events, local and visiting anglers are gearing up for one of the most exciting times of the year.
The Mackay Isaac region continues to cement its position as one of Queensland’s premier recreational fishing destinations, strengthened by the establishment of the St Helens to Cape Hillsborough Net Free Zone and supported by the region’s official fishing brand, Hooked on Mackay, the go‑to source for all things fishing, boating, hotspots and safety.
Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said the return of barra season showcased what made the Mackay Isaac region exceptional.
“The Mackay Net Free Zone, between St Helens and Cape Hillsborough, has transformed our waterways, and Hooked on Mackay has helped shine a national spotlight on the outstanding fishing experiences we have here,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.
“On top of the net free zone, council and Catchment Solutions completed Queensland’s largest rock fishway at Jolimont Creek last year.
“That fishway will allow about 25 fish species, including barramundi, to migrate upstream as part of their life cycle and will greatly enhance fish stocks in the area.
“Add to that our four stocked impoundments across Teemburra, Kinchant, Eungella and Theresa Creek dams, and the Mackay Isaac destination offers year‑round barramundi action that you simply won’t find anywhere else in Queensland.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the Pioneer River was one of the most accessible barra fisheries in the state.
“Not only is it a beautiful river to spend time on, but it is also home to very healthy fish stocks,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Anglers regularly catch quality barra right under the Forgan Bridge, at the base of Dumbleton Weir and around ‘The Vee’ near the river mouth,” he said.
“The Pioneer River also has an abundance of fishing platforms for land-based fishing.
“Better yet, many of those platforms have artificial reefs installed within casting distance and we know from underwater cameras that those reefs hold some very large barra, and a host of other fish.”
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Vea Vea said from the Isaac Coast to Theresa Creek Dam, our waterways play an important role in local recreation, tourism, and the way our communities live and connect.
“Barra season brings people into our region, supports local businesses, and reminds us why protecting and promoting these fishing destinations matters”, Mayor Vea Vea said.
With the 2026 season now underway, Mackay Isaac Tourism encourages anglers to gear up, explore the region’s unique mix of saltwater and freshwater fisheries, and stay connected via Hooked on Mackay for the latest updates, maps, tips and regional fishing inspiration.
[ENDS]