Frequently Asked Questions – Hamilton Island Charters

About Our Fishing Charters

What makes our charters different?

• We’re a husband-and-wife-run business focused on delivering a personalised, high-quality experience on the water. From premium equipment to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere, every trip is tailored to ensure you have a memorable day—whether it’s your first fish or your best catch yet.

What is the difference between a shared charter & a private charter?

• Shared charters are 4-hour trips where you fish alongside other guests. They are a great-value, social experience, with each person using their own rod and reel, targeting reef species.
• Private charters give you exclusive use of the boat and can be tailored to your group—whether that’s bottom fishing, trolling for pelagic species, or a mix of both.
• For more detailed guidance, see our blog – Which Charter To Choose – Shared Or Private Charters.

Shared half-day & private half-day fishing charters Inclusions:

• Quality Shimano rods, reels and tackle.
• Catch filleted or gilled, gutted and bagged.
• Ice-cold water. BYO alcohol.
• A professional crew dedicated to sports/reef fishing, including skipper and crewman.

Private 3/4 day, full-day and liveaboard fishing charters Inclusions:

• Catering
• Quality Shimano rods, reels and tackle.
• Catch filleted or gilled, gutted and bagged.
• Ice-cold bottled water. BYO alcohol.
• Professional crew dedicated to sports/reef fishing – skipper & crewman.

Our Boats And Equipment

What is the difference between “The Pirate” and “Moonshine’s” Charter Options?

• “The Pirate” does half-day shared and private charters, offering a comfortable and social fishing experience close to the islands.
• “Moonshine” being a larger vessel, does ¾ day, full-day, and multi-day liveaboard charters to the outer reef, providing more space, range, and onboard comfort.

What makes our boats different from others?

• Our Australian custom game boats are purpose-built for sports fishing in the Whitsundays, designed to handle local conditions while delivering a smooth, comfortable ride. Combined with premium equipment and an experienced crew, they provide a reliable and high-quality fishing experience every time you step onboard.

Is there a toilet board on the vessels?

• Yes, both of our custom game fishing boats are equipped with onboard toilet facilities for your comfort.

Do we have left-handed reels?

• Yes. Our Shimano Saragosa reels can be easily adjusted for left- or right-handed use.

The Fishing Experience

Which species of fish can we catch with Topnotch game Fishing?

We target a wide variety of reef and pelagic species in the Whitsundays.

Common reef species include:

• Coral trout, nannygai, red emperor, fingermark, gold spot cod, tusk fish, grassy emperor and various trevally.

Pelagic species may include:

• Black marlin, sailfish, longtail tuna, cobia, and several types of mackerel, including Spanish, spotted and school mackerel.

Can you keep your catch?

• Absolutely. Any fish that meets legal size and bag limits is yours to keep.

Which is the better time to go fishing, morning or afternoon? 

• Fishing can be productive at any time of day. Success is influenced more by tides, weather, and moon phases than by the time on the clock. Some days the bite is early, other days it fires up later—our crew plan each trip to give you the best opportunity based on current conditions.

How deep is the water around the Whitsunday Islands?

• Most fishing grounds around the islands range from 40 to 70 metres in depth, depending on location. Our crew will position the boat based on conditions and target species.

Weather And Conditions

What happens if the weather is unfavourable & the charter is cancelled?

• All charters are weather-dependent. Our captains may cancel trips if conditions are unsafe or in the event of unforeseen mechanical issues.
• If this occurs, we will offer you the option to reschedule (subject to availability) or provide a full refund in line with our terms and conditions.

Is seasickness a concern on the charter?

• If you’re prone to seasickness, we recommend seeking advice from your local chemist prior to your trip. The Whitsunday Islands provide natural protection from winds from many directions, which helps keep conditions relatively comfortable. However, conditions can vary, and it’s always best to be prepared.

Are there any fish closures & when are they?

• Yes. Each year, regulated closures apply in October and November, including Coral Reef Fin Fish closures and Spanish Mackerel closures.
  For full details and exact dates, please refer to our blog – Coral Reef Fin & Spanish Mackerel Closures

Types Of Hamilton Island Fishing Charters

What types of fishing charters do we offer, and what are their times/durations?

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