The Giant Black Marlin attracts anglers from around the world, and the Cairns region has long been recognized as the Black Marlin Capital of the World with the area stretching from Lizard Island in the north, to just south of this beautiful modern tropical city, the envy of many fisherman.

More 1,000lb+ black marlin are caught in our waters each season than all the other known grounds put together, making our waters arguably the number one game fishing region on the planet. These marine giants gather each spring (from September to November) and congregate along the seaward edge of the Reef, along the continental shelf. And what makes our region so desirable is the relative reliability of their return each season as they come here to feed hungrily prior to spawning.

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest fish attractor on the globe, and is at its closest point to the mainland right off our coast. Juvenile marlin begin to appear inside the reef around April / May (stock from the previous years spawning) and average about 10 kg's. They steadily increase in sizes and numbers as the months progress until peaking with the arrival of the 'Big Mothers' in mid September. The largest Black Marlin caught in Far North Queensland waters weighed 655kg (1446lb).

But its not just about the Black Marlin, Other species the heavy tackle fisherman is likely to encounter include Stripe and Blue Marlin, Sail Fish, Dorado, Wahoo and Tuna.

Day Trips

Out of Port Douglas. Fish along the outer reef at Linden Bank, Opal Reef and St Crispins Reef for Marlin, Wahoo, Dolphin fish, Tuna and Mackerel. You may journey to the famous Canyons and Sea Mountains both south and north, fishing for Blue, Black and Striped Marlin, Tuna and other pelagic species. Depart at 08.00 hrs returning 16.30 hrs.

Live Aboard

The very best way to target these beauties however is with an extended live aboard charter. By traveling out wide to the fishing grounds outside the Great Barrier Reef, once the schools have been located, it's an easy matter of anchoring up behind the protection of the reef each evening and then be into the fishing first thing next day.

The pure magic of being on the water in such a pristine environment is second to none. Imagine dropping anchor in a seclude lagoon, dangling a few lines over the side - just for fun - while waiting for your evening meal to be prepared by the expert hostess.

Swim and snorkel early next morning then back 'outside' to continue the fishing adventure - fish a different location each day, in style, with your every need catered for.

Mother Ships

Comfortable mother ships are also available for corporate groups and conferences with the flexibility of catering to larger groups. Seaplane transfers can be arranged to the most popular offshore destinations with Joe Joe and the mother ship ready and waiting on your arrival. (Relocation fees may apply)

This is undoubtedly the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience - bookings for this option must be made 90 days in advance.

MV Joe Joe is a 'tag and release' vessel. Fishing tackle and equipment on-board ranges from heavy tackle 130lb and 80lb gear through to medium and light rods and reels for either lures or bait fishing:

• Shimano and Penn International reels
• Reelax heavy-duty game chair and outriggers
• Large deck freezer
• Live bait tank
• Tuna tubes

Visit the Lizard Island Resort website for further information, while those with an interest in fishing should also visit Lizard Island Game Fishing Club and their annual Black Marlin Classic.