Air-Port.com

Where would you go for the best fishing of your life, but still keep your other half happy on dry land? If this sounds a little like you, then Cooktown in far northerly Queensland on the Cape York Peninsular can provide a dual his and her holiday experience. There’s an all weather inland road, or you could take the Bloomfield Track if you have a spirit of excitement and a FWD. Either way, Cooktown is approximately 330 kilometre north of Cairns. Light plane or ship are the other travel options to get there.

History and fishing are the dual attractions. Positioned on the Endeavour Stream, Cooktown is named after Captain James Cook who discovered and spent time there while correcting his ship, the Endeavour in 1770. The town also gained traction in the PalmerRriver Gold Rush and has also been graced with a surplus of natural beauty and wildlife.

Cooktown Queensland

Freshwater and saltwater fishing are both available from the Endeavour and Annan Brooks, as well as the Coral Sea. Charter boats for either half day or extended trips are available, or you could hire a dinghy. Many like fishing from the wharf and even the brook bank. Whatever your choice, the fishing is internationally known as good.

Historic highlights are all within straightforward walking distance in the city itself and include the Old Cooktown Infirmary, Post Office, Cooktown Cemetery, Chinese Shrine, Botanic Gardens, James Cook Statue, the Cook Monument and Cannon, Grassy Hill Lighthouse, Mrs Watson’s Monument and the Elizabeth Guzely Studio.

Accommodation is acceptable though not high end. There is a four star resort, hotel, caravan or camper van hire facilities. The perfect time to go to is in the dry season, before the humidity and monsoon kick in. Cooktown is one of Australia’s oldest historical towns and while you won’t find anything to equal the Ritz, the local history is surprisingly interesting and you can remain happily occupied while the fishing squad does likewise.