Making Waves: Top Waterholes that’ll Have You Hooked

Dive in – best spots to make a splash

You heard it here first, there’s an inland water sports scene making waves across our country and you can find it right here in Southern Queensland Country.

Discover adrenaline-pumping adventures at the Goondiwindi Natural Heritage and Water Park. This premier water sports location is a Nationally credited water ski site. Dialling it down just slightly, Coolmunda Dam is perfect for all paces of activities including water sports, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking with camping and cabins available too. Did we mention the stunning sunrises and sunsets?

Looking for a side of wildlife viewing with your water sporting? Glenlyon Dam is the spot for you, boasting top notch skiing, sailing and fishing. We love options, so while you’re there, check out Storm King Dam which is also a popular spot for water skiing, canoeing, kayaking and rowing. Forgot to BYO canoe? Easy! Hire one from Sommerville Valley Tourist Park.

Does a day out on the boat sound delightful? Look no further than Lake Cooby with both electric motors and non-powered vessels permitted. Make sure to pop in a picnic to be set all day long.

This one is for the water-lovers who like a bit of variety. Lake Dyer offers a great location for water activities in addition to fishing including, canoeing, motorised boats, sail boats and jet skis.

And you better believe that snorkelling and scuba diving are not just reserved for the beach! Lake Wivenhoe has you covered at Logan’s Inlet designated swimming area.

Bjelke-Petersen Dam South Burnett

Escape your routine by spending a night at Bjelke-Petersen Dam. Pick your accommodation, whether it's a caravan, tent, or a cozy cabin. Bring your family and enjoy on-site facilities like a pool, tennis court, basketball court, play equipment, hot showers, and camp kitchen. Don't worry about groceries, as there's a kiosk for essentials, and Murgon township is just a short drive away. Engage in water activities such as kayaking, tubing, fishing, and more. Remember to get your fishing permit if you plan to fish.

Hagger Drive, Moffatdale, Via Murgon QLD 4605

To book visit: yallakoolpark.com.au or call +61 7 4168 4746 Facebook: yallakoolonbpdam

Hook, line and sinker – where to drop a line

All we can say is expect the unexpected in Southern Queensland Country with the rich, nutrient dense soils not only delivering abundant crops on land but also flourishing fishing facilities, lakeside too. Packing essentials include sunhat, sunscreen, a cool beverage and your fishing permits.

Cast your line at one of the area’s best ‘sweet water’ fishing spots –Macintyre Brook where you’ll find Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Eel-Tailed Catfish (jewfish), Boney Bream and Spangled Perch ripe for the taking.

Head west for a true fisherman’s paradise with Caliguel Lagoon, Chinchilla Weir, Gil Weir, Archers Crossing and Tara Lagoon all within a two hour radius for the ultimate angling adventure. Many also offer active restocking programs, ensuring there’s plenty of fish to go around, all year round.

Reel in some Redclaw at Lake Somerset as well as a variety of other freshwater fish before making your way to Lake Wivenhoe – the largest lake in South-East Queensland. Freshwater catches include Australian Bass, Yellowbelly, Silver Perch, Mary River Cod, Saratoga.

Want to test out your spinning lure? Check out Severn River in the Granite Belt, boasting great spots to cast a line off the banks. While you’re there, Storm King Dam is also a famous fishing hotspot. Catches include EelTailed Catfish, Murray Cod, Yellowbelly, Silver Perch, and Spangled Perch. If BYO-ing a boat is not an option, Conolly Dam also offers shore-fishing where you might even nab a Golden Perch.