2026 Barra Season is Back, Baby!

Published on 02 February 2026

Get ready to reel in the excitement on the mighty Fitzroy (Tunuba) - the wait is officially over. Barramundi season is back for 2026, and anglers across the region are gearing up to chase that coveted trophy barra.

The 2026 barramundi season opened at 12:01am on Sunday, 1 February, and runs through to midnight, 31 October.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the outstanding results from the 2025 season have set a strong foundation for an even bigger and better year ahead.

"We’re incredibly proud that anglers from all over Australia continue to choose the Fitzroy (Tunuba) for their barra adventures. Our river isn’t just a great place to fish, it’s a world‑class destination, and every season reminds us just how special this part of Queensland truly is,” said Mayor Williams.

"The 2025 season reinforced Rockhampton’s reputation as Australia’s Barramundi Capital, with a strong pool of trophy‑sized barra thriving in the Fitzroy (Tunuba) and impressive numbers of anglers landing metre‑plus fish right in the heart of our city."

"More travellers than ever are choosing Rockhampton for their next great fishing adventure, and the results show why. With up to 30% of recaptures now coming from visiting anglers, it’s clear the Fitzroy (Tunuba) has become a must‑fish destination for anyone chasing a genuine trophy barra. The success of the Net Free Zone continues to play a major role in this growth - transforming the Fitzroy into one of Australia’s most productive and accessible barra fisheries. As we head into the 2026 season, we’re excited to welcome visitors from across the country to experience world‑class fishing right here in the heart of Rockhampton."

Advance Rockhampton Tourism Coordinator Lauren Law said growing interest from travelling anglers is continuing to strengthen Rockhampton’s visitor economy.

“Recent monitoring shows a strong proportion of recaptures in 2025 came from visiting anglers, demonstrating how fishing tourism is contributing to increased visitation and economic activity across our region. The ongoing success of the Net Free Zone has ensured a healthy population of trophy‑sized barramundi, which is driving both recreational fishing demand and broader tourism opportunities,” said Ms Law.

“With more than 300 days of sunshine each year and exceptional year‑round conditions for chasing trophy barra, Rockhampton continues to be a standout destination for travelling fishers of all experience levels.”

“For visitors flying in, being able to arrive from Brisbane, settle into local accommodation and be on the Fitzroy (Tunuba) within two hours is a major advantage. That convenience drives spending in our hotels, restaurants, tackle stores and small businesses - ensuring fishing tourism delivers real, lasting benefits to the Rockhampton community.”

Investment in Rockhampton’s fishing infrastructure continues to strengthen the visitor experience, with marquee facilities including the North Rockhampton (Robert Clark Drive) Boat Ramp, a four‑lane, all‑weather ramp with a central pontoon at The Common, providing fast, reliable access to the Fitzroy (Tunuba).  In and around the CBD, travellers also benefit from accessible land‑based fishing platforms such as Sir Raymond Huish Drive and Donovan Park, which offer wheelchair‑friendly access close to parking and amenities.  Regionally, improved access along the Bajool–Port Alma Road, completed pavement widening and safety works in 2023, further supports boating and fishing visitation into the Fitzroy Delta and surrounds.

The closed barra season (between November and January each year) plays an important role preserving the species for future generations, giving barramundi time to spawn and safeguard them at this vulnerable time in their life cycle.

To discover more about Fishing the Fitzroy and plan your visit to the region, head to www.explorerockhampton.com.au

Whether you prefer a fully guided experience or plan to go it alone, Rockhampton offers a variety of charter and dry‑hire options, along with numerous land‑based fishing spots, including accessible platforms, spread across the region. Learn more or start planning your next trip at www.fishingthefitzroy.com.au

Rockhampton’s Recreational Fishing Voluntary Code of Practice, introduced in 2015, continues to play an important role in fostering sustainable fishing habits and supporting long‑term ecological health across the Fitzroy River system.

Sign up to the Voluntary Code of Practice here: https://www.explorerockhampton.com.au/Explore/Fishing-the-Fitzroy/Voluntary-Code-of-Practice 

For more inspiration, read our blog: Bag a trophy barra

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

ENDS