Lake Maraboon Fishing Classic
Lake Maraboon Fishing Classic is one of Emerald’s signature events, drawing visitors from across the Central Highlands and beyond. Annual fishing competition at Lake Maraboon targeting barramundi, bass, and other species.
About Lake Maraboon Fishing Classic
The Fishing Classic draws serious and social anglers to one of Queensland’s premier freshwater fishing destinations. Barramundi and golden perch are the main targets. The competition format varies but typically includes categories for different species, biggest catch, and junior divisions. Weigh-in events create a social atmosphere, and prizes are genuinely worth competing for.
The dam itself is spectacular — 10,000 hectares of water surrounded by Central Highlands landscape. Even if you’re not competing, the event is a great introduction to fishing at Fairbairn Dam.
The event typically attracts 300–600 anglers and supporters visitors.
When & Where
When: Annually, typically May–July (cooler months) Where: Fairbairn Dam / Lake Maraboon, 20 minutes from Emerald Expected attendance: 300–600 anglers and supporters
Why Attend
Combining competitive fishing with the social atmosphere of an organised event. Great way to discover Lake Maraboon’s fishing potential, meet local anglers, and potentially win prizes. The setting is hard to beat.
Getting There
Emerald is accessible via the Capricorn Highway from both Brisbane (9 hours) and Rockhampton (3 hours). Emerald Airport has daily flights from Brisbane via QantasLink and Alliance Airlines.
Where to Stay
Emerald Inn offers self-contained apartments with full kitchens, free undercover parking, and fast WiFi — about ten minutes from Emerald Airport and walking distance to the CBD. Our apartments are the perfect base for event visitors: cook your own meals, do your laundry, and settle in comfortably. Book direct for the best available rate.
Tip: Book early for major events — accommodation in Emerald fills quickly during Ag-Grow, race days, and school holiday periods.
Extend Your Stay
Many visitors combine their event trip with exploration of the Central Highlands region:
- Sapphire Gemfields — fossick for sapphires at Rubyvale, 45 minutes west
- Fairbairn Dam & Lake Maraboon — fishing, kayaking, and sunset picnics, 20 minutes away
- Carnarvon Gorge — dramatic sandstone gorge with Aboriginal rock art, 3 hours south-west
- Emerald Botanic Gardens — peaceful morning walks on the Nogoa River
Plan Your Visit
- Accommodation: Emerald Inn — Deluxe, Executive, and Two Bedroom apartments
- Dining: Emerald dining guide — cafes, pubs, and local beef
- Services: Emerald services guide — supermarkets, fuel, medical
- FAQs: Emerald QLD FAQ — climate, distances, what to expect
- Contact: Emerald Inn — (07) 4980 0600 or bookings@emeraldinn.com.au