FISHING DESTINATIONS

January To April:
Port Stephens And Sydney

The Viking II heads south to Port Stephens for the months of January to April to follow the marlin fishery as Cairns' fishery slows down during these months. Port Stephens NSW, is about 2.5 hours drive north of Sydney, along a modern F3 Freeway or a 45 minute flight from Sydney. This one of the ports in the Sydney area Captain Bill Billson originated from and his knowledge of these grounds is as vast as his knowledge of the Cairns area. Port Stephens is receiving worldwide recognition as a light and medium tackle sportfishing destination.

Three of the Billfish species, Black, Blue and Striped Marlin migrate here each year during these months. It is not uncommon to catch all three species in a day's fishing. (see our Port Stephens Fishing Report) Blue Marlin up to 600lbs are not uncommon with very large blue marlin presenting themselves occasionally. The recent years there have been over 15 world records for black, blue and striped marlin, caught in these waters using not only conventional tackle but also Ultra-Light tackle and Fly Fishing tackle. 4 of these world records were caught in the 2000 season on 2lb, 4lb and 6lb, an outstanding feat. A serious Saltwater Fly Fishing industry is quickly being established due to these world record results and also because the marlin are perfect size for the avid fly fisherman.

Not only is Port Stephens a must as a world class fishing destination it also attracts tourists by the thousands each year because of it's stunning coastal scenery, pristine golden beached and crystal clear waterways. The harbour of Port Stephens is around two and a half times the size of Sydney Habour making it a boatman's paradise. Port Stephens also boasts resort style accommodation, award-winning restaurants with magnificent views and many tourist attractions. Do yourself a favour and come fish on the Viking II with Captain Bill Billson and his crew in this blue water paradise.

May To December:
Cairns (North Queensland / Great Barrier Reef)

From May to December Viking II is in her home port of Cairns. During the months of May through September in Cairns fishing grounds on the Great Barrier Reef produce some great light tackle fishing. In the past years Viking II and her crew have had many successful trips to the reef during these months with excellent results. Small Black Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Cobia, Barracuda, King, Spanish Mackerel, Giant Trevally and various Tuna species, just to name a few, are in abundance during these months. Whether you want to conquer the elusive black marlin on Ultra-Light Tackle for a world record or you're an avid Fly Fisherman, or you would like to have a great day out Sportfishing on Light-Tackle and maybe even indulge in some reef fishing to catch some of our beautiful reef fish for dinner, the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is the place to do it! Viking II offers personalised charters during this time and we assure you, you won't be disappointed!

The Giant Black Marlin Season, which Cairns is famous for, runs from September through December. Without question the 150 mile stretch between Cairns and Lizard Island provides the ultimate in Giant Black Marlin Fishing in the world. The International Game Fishing Association (IFGA) keeps records of captured fish over 1000lbs, the 1998 IGFA Record Book lists 158 'grander' marlin worldwide and 114 or over 70% of these great fish were Black Marlin caught off the Great Barrier Reef between Lizard Island.

Captain Bill Billson and the Viking/Viking II boast over 30 captures and tag and release of black marlin over 1000lbs. If you are interested in indulging in the ultimate experience of Giant Black Marlin Fishing with world renowned Capt Bill Billson and his crew on the Viking II, it is highly recommended to book well in advance of the season.