Hook A Barra Fishing Experience — Catch Queensland’s Barramundi at Wonga Beach
Spend an hour at Hook-a-Barra in Wonga Beach learning to catch Queensland’s iconic barramundi—no experience required. Family-friendly instruction, stocked ponds, and an onsite Barra Kitchen make this a compact, high-reward stop on the way to the Daintree.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early
Get there 10–15 minutes before your start time to receive gear, a safety briefing and to pick a good casting spot.
Wear sun protection
Tropical UV is strong—use reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses to see fish below the surface.
Respect catch-and-release guidance
Guides manage fish handling and landing—follow their instructions to minimize stress to the barramundi and keep the practice sustainable.
Bring a refillable bottle
Hydration is crucial in FNQ’s heat; there are nearby facilities but a personal water bottle is the easiest option.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small viewing tanks let you inspect barramundi up close without disturbing the ponds
- •The nearby Barra Kitchen offers award-winning dishes and is only a short walk from the fishing area
Wildlife
- •Pacific barramundi (Lates calcarifer)
- •Coastal bird species such as egrets and kingfishers
Conservation Note
Hook-a-Barra emphasizes catch-and-release in the ponds and sources fish for the kitchen sustainably; visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen and follow handling guidelines to reduce stress on fish.
Barramundi have been a staple food and cultural resource for Indigenous communities of northern Queensland for thousands of years; recreational fisheries grew with coastal settlement and tourism in the 20th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Pond edge near the main viewing platform
- • Side of the large stocked pond where fish often surface
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Helps you spot fish and reduces glare on the ponds.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects from strong tropical sun while minimizing harm to local waterways.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated in FNQ’s heat and avoids single-use plastic.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Provides grip and protection around wet pond edges and facilities.
Common Questions
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No—sessions include an introduction to barramundi fishing and one-on-one guidance from local instructors.
Can children participate?
Yes—Hook-a-Barra is family-friendly and suitable for small children; strollers are allowed and staff assist young anglers.
Are catches kept or released?
Pond fishing is primarily catch-and-release, but the facility also operates a nearby kitchen serving sustainably sourced barramundi.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes—the venue is listed as wheelchair accessible and staff can accommodate mobility needs.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled in inclement weather; you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled time.
Is equipment provided?
Yes—fishing rods, tackle, lures and bait are supplied as part of the experience.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Wonga Beach, Queensland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; sessions are largely stationary with short, low-impact movements.
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