Cape York showcases an incredible diversity of sight fishing targets, dissecting structure-laden mangrove banks, and voraciously feeding pelagic fish under droves of birds. Three flat targets are virtually endemic to this area: Anak Permit, Blue Bastards, and Black Spot Tusk Fish, which cannot be found in any other country. The flats of Cape York are a vibrant ecosystem, teeming with life. Giant Trevally, Golden Trevally, massive Cobia, and the acrobatic Queen Fish are just a few of the common targets. Tunas and Mackerel can be seen tearing up bait just outside the flat, while the estuary systems are loaded with Barramundi and countless other species.
CAPE YORK: AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER FLY FISHING FRONTIER / The Cape York region offers saltwater fly anglers the rare opportunity to target the elusive Trachinotus Anak (Australian Permit) in one of the world’s most unpressured fisheries, where it’s not uncommon to encounter more than 25 species during a single week. Fishing is conducted aboard two American-made fiberglass skiffs equipped with trolling motors, operating with a 2-angler-to-1-guide ratio under the direction of highly experienced professional guides. Your mothership is the 64-foot New Wave Power Cat “Freedom,” family-owned and operated by Weipa locals Karl and Eileen Reed, who bring more than 20 years of intimate knowledge of the waters north of Mapoon. As the only exclusive fly fishing operator in the Cape York area, this operation caters to all experience levels—from first-time saltwater anglers to seasoned veterans—making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking diverse species, pristine waters, and genuine Australian adventure in one of the planet’s last true fishing frontiers.
The plethora of species may be overwhelming, but a familiar fish in a wildly new landscape is a tremendous draw for anglers worldwide: the Permit. With a staggering population of Anak Permit averaging in size of 12-15 pounds and minimal fishing pressure, Cape York is indisputably one of the most prolific Permit fisheries on the planet. This is a fantastic destination for new and seasoned Permit anglers, boasting many shots per day at big fish; these are the fish we marvel at and obsess over. For anglers new to Permit fishing, there will be missed shots, but there will be good ones until the ratio becomes skewed in your favour.
The mothership Freedom is a modest luxury on the water—everything you need, nothing you don’t. She is a 64-foot New Wave Power Cat. Comfortable beds, AC, laundry, an ample deck, and hang-out space create an intimate yet spacious atmosphere. The food is exceptional – a hardy breakfast or fruits and granola, crispy and refreshing boat lunches, and delicious and homey food for dinner.
Buff and Killer (the cook and captain) match the authenticity of the waters surrounding them. Incredibly knowledgeable of their ecosystem, these kind and accommodating men will make you feel at home and safe and have you in stitches laughing as they recant enthralling stories of their numerous escapades. The mothership experience allows for a complete immersion in the Natural cycles of the Cape York fishery. Living on the water for your stay will put you in the zone as a genuine hunter, making the entire experience much more visceral.
Arrive at Weipa Airport. Your Aussie Flyfisher guide will greet you at the airport and transfer guests to The Cape Lodge for the first evening. Dinner at the Lodge.
Early departure for Day 1 fishing from Mapoon. Meet with the Mothership to drop off bags and fish a full day on the water. Re-meet with Mothership in the evening for refreshments and dinner. Settle into the mothership accommodation for the remainder of the week.
Breakfast is typically served from 7.00 am each day to depart for fishing at 8 AM. Packed lunches, beverages and snacks are included and enjoyed on the water. Each fishing day runs to around 5.00 pm, depending on fishing. Return to the mothership each night for refreshments, shower, and relaxation. Dinner is served at 7 PM each evening.
Fishing from 8 AM – 5 PM. Return to the Mothership, which returns to Mapoon in the evening.
Day 7 Final Morning
Guests will be transferred from Mapoon to Weipa airport for their flights home
TRAVEL TO CAPE YORK / Flights are booked to Weipa, Queensland, Australia, with QANTAS Airways offering convenient connections from all major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, and Darwin. All arrivals can be completed within a day, making access straightforward for domestic travelers. Once you arrive in Weipa, all transfers and local travel are included as part of your trip, eliminating logistical concerns and allowing you to focus entirely on the fishing ahead.
Important Visa Information for International Guests / All international visitors will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country unless they are Australian citizens. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival, but all other passport holders—regardless of age—must apply for their visa before leaving home. You can apply for various Australian visa types, including tourist and working holiday visas, via the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) app or directly through the Department of Home Affairs website. Please note that visa approvals have been known to take upwards of 30 business days, though most are processed within a week depending on the traveler’s country of origin. To avoid frustration and potential travel disruptions, we strongly recommend arranging your visa well in advance of your scheduled departure date.
Deposit of 40% to confirm your reservation.
Final Balance payment will be due approximately 90 days before the trip.
Within 90 days the Deposit is non-refundable unless a replacement is found.
Once final payment is paid it is non-refundable unless a replacement is found by the guest.
