What the Australian Lungfish Is and Where It Lives
The Australian lungfish is a prehistoric-looking freshwater fish found only in Queensland's Mary and Burnett river systems, about 200 kilometres north of Brisbane. It is one of only two lungfish species still alive on Earth and has remained almost unchanged for over 100 million years. The fish can grow to 1.5 metres long and weigh up to 40 kilograms, making it a substantial catch for anglers who pursue it.
Unlike most fish, the Australian lungfish can breathe air using a modified swim bladder that functions as a lung. This adaptation lets it survive in stagnant water and even in mud during dry periods. The species is fully protected under Queensland law, which means you cannot keep one or kill one under any circumstances. All fishing for Australian lungfish is catch-and-release only.
The Mary River and Burnett River are the only two river systems in Australia where this species naturally occurs. Both rivers flow through inland Queensland and eventually reach the ocean. The fish prefer deep pools and slower-moving sections where they can rest on the bottom during the day.
Key Takeaways
- Australian lungfish live only in the Mary and Burnett rivers in Queensland and are fully protected by law—all catches must be released immediately.
- The species is a living fossil that has changed little in over 100 million years and can breathe air through a modified swim bladder.
- Fishing for lungfish requires a Queensland recreational fishing licence and must follow strict catch-and-release rules with no exceptions.
- The best fishing occurs in deep pools during cooler months, and you must use barbless hooks to reduce injury when releasing the fish.
Fishing Seasons and Best Times to Fish
Australian lungfish are active year-round, but fishing success varies by season. The cooler months from April to September generally produce the most reliable catches, as the fish move into deeper pools and feed more actively. Water temperature and flow affect their behaviour significantly—after heavy rain, the rivers rise and the fish disperse into flooded areas, making them harder to locate.
Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive times to fish. Lungfish are bottom feeders that hunt at dawn and dusk. Midday fishing is possible but typically slower. Night fishing is also effective, particularly in summer when daytime water temperatures climb.
The Mary River and Burnett River both have sections open to recreational fishing year-round, but access points and regulations can change. Check the current Queensland Fisheries regulations before you plan your trip, as closures or restrictions may apply to specific river sections.
What You Need to Fish for Australian Lungfish
You must hold a current Queensland recreational fishing licence to fish for any species in Queensland waters, including the Mary and Burnett rivers. The licence is inexpensive and can be obtained online through the Queensland Government website or at tackle shops. You do not need a separate licence for lungfish—the standard recreational licence covers all freshwater species.
Barbless hooks are mandatory when fishing for Australian lungfish. The barb must be completely removed or filed down so the hook slides out cleanly when you release the fish. This requirement exists because lungfish are slow to recover from injury and the population is small. Using barbed hooks is an offence under Queensland law.
Standard freshwater fishing gear works well: a medium-weight rod, a reel with smooth drag, and 10 to 15-pound line. Lungfish are powerful fighters and can break light tackle, but they do not require specialized equipment. Bring a soft net or wet cloth to handle the fish during release—their skin is delicate and dries quickly.
Baits and Lures That Work
Australian lungfish are bottom feeders that eat small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Live bait is the most effective approach. Small freshwater prawns, yabbies (freshwater crayfish), and live gudgeons or other small native fish all produce catches. Bait should be presented on or very close to the bottom where lungfish hunt.
Soft plastic lures fished slowly along the bottom can also work, particularly in deeper pools. Colours that mimic natural prey—browns, greys, and blacks—are more effective than bright colours. Retrieve slowly and pause frequently to let the lure sit on the bottom.
Avoid using introduced species as bait if possible. The Mary and Burnett rivers have invasive fish populations, and using them as bait can spread disease or unwanted species. Check local tackle shops for advice on what bait is currently producing and what is legal to use in your chosen section of river.
Access Points and River Sections
The Mary River has several public access points between Gympie and Tiaro, including boat ramps and bank fishing areas. Popular sections include the pools near Gympie and around Kandanga. The Burnett River has access near Gayndah and further downstream toward Bundaberg. Both rivers have camping areas and caravan parks nearby, making multi-day trips practical.
Some sections of both rivers are closed to fishing or have restricted access. Always check the Queensland Fisheries website or contact the local fisheries office before you travel. Access can change due to environmental concerns, private land restrictions, or temporary closures. Local tackle shops in Gympie, Gayndah, and Bundaberg can tell you which sections are currently open and where lungfish have been caught recently.
Boat access is possible on both rivers, but water levels vary seasonally. In dry periods, shallow sections may be impassable. Bank fishing is reliable year-round at established access points. Wading is possible in some areas, but the bottom can be muddy and slippery—wear appropriate footwear.
Regulations and Catch-and-Release Rules
Australian lungfish must be released immediately after capture. Keeping one is illegal and carries significant penalties. The fish is listed as vulnerable under Queensland's Nature Conservation Act, and the population is monitored closely. Every lungfish caught is recorded by fisheries officers, so follow the rules without exception.
When you land a lungfish, handle it as briefly as possible. Wet your hands or use a wet cloth before touching the fish—their skin is sensitive and can be damaged by dry hands. Remove the hook gently, support the fish's body, and return it to the water head-first so it can breathe. Do not hold it out of water longer than necessary.
Barbless hooks reduce injury and make hook removal faster and easier. If a hook is deeply embedded, cut the line rather than forcing the hook out. The fish can often shed a deeply embedded hook naturally over time. Report any unusual fish behaviour or health issues to the Queensland Fisheries office—these observations help protect the population.
Travel and Logistics
The Mary River is about 200 kilometres north of Brisbane, roughly a three-hour drive. Gympie is the main town for access to the upper Mary River. The Burnett River is further inland, with Gayndah serving as a base for the middle sections. Both towns have fuel, food, and accommodation options. Bundaberg, on the coast, is the closest major city to the lower Burnett River.
Accommodation ranges from caravan parks and camping grounds to motels and holiday rentals. Many riverside camping areas are free or low-cost. Book ahead during school holidays and weekends, as popular spots fill quickly. Tackle shops in Gympie and Gayndah stock local baits and can provide current fishing reports.
The best time to visit is April to September when cooler weather makes fishing more comfortable and productive. Summer (December to February) is hot and humid, and water levels can be low. Winter (June to August) is mild and dry, making it ideal for camping and extended trips. Bring insect repellent year-round—mosquitoes are active near the rivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an Australian lungfish if I catch one?
No. Australian lungfish are fully protected and must be released immediately. Keeping one is illegal and carries penalties. All fishing for this species is catch-and-release only, with no exceptions for size or season.
What size do Australian lungfish grow to?
They typically reach 1 to 1.5 metres long and can weigh 20 to 40 kilograms. Larger fish are rare but do occur. Size does not affect the catch-and-release requirement—all fish must be released regardless of how large they are.
Do I need a special licence to fish for Australian lungfish?
No. A standard Queensland recreational fishing licence covers all freshwater species, including lungfish. The licence is inexpensive and available online or at tackle shops. You do not need a separate permit for this species.
What time of year is best for catching Australian lungfish?
April to September is most productive, when cooler water temperatures make the fish more active. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times of day. After heavy rain, the fish disperse and become harder to locate.
Are there other places in Australia where I can fish for lungfish?
No. Australian lungfish live only in the Mary and Burnett rivers in Queensland. The species does not occur anywhere else in Australia. If you want to fish for lungfish, these two river systems are your only option.