Tilapia are now well established in many waterways across South East Queensland, and the warmer months are one of the best times to target them. As water temperatures rise, tilapia become more active and can often be caught easily from the bank.
They’re an ideal species for kids and beginners. Tilapia are aggressive feeders, don’t require fancy gear, and can be caught on simple tackle using worms, bread, or corn – with my favourite method being worms suspended 20–30 cm under a float. The regular bites help keep kids engaged and teach valuable fishing skills such as baiting hooks, watching floats, and handling fish safely.
Important Rules for Catching Tilapia in Queensland
Because tilapia are a declared noxious species in Queensland, there are important rules anglers must follow. It is illegal to release tilapia back into the water after they are caught. They must be humanely killed immediately and disposed of correctly. Fish can be placed in a bin or buried as soon as possible. It is illegal to release them, move them alive, or use them as live bait.
Targeting tilapia can be fun and educational, and it also helps reduce pressure on native species. It’s a simple way for families to enjoy fishing while doing something positive for local waterways. Contact me if you’d like locations, or check out my YouTube channel for tips on how to catch them.
Read more stories from our Redcliffe Guide print magazine here:
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