The Cape York Peninsula is one of the last frontiers of fly fishing. A remote part of the world accessible only by air or a long bumpy dirt track, its remoteness has kept the wild fisheries thriving.
It is a region filled with an abundance of wildlife and its waters are filled with a multitude of tropical fish species, all of which love to eat flies. If fly fishing is about lengthening the list of species caught by ones fly then this is the place to add a whole ream of paper to that list in a very short amount of time. It's not uncommon to catch between thirty and forty species of fish in a week when fishing these tropical waters. That makes for some exciting fishing, especially considering you can encounter Permit, Barramundi, Longtail Tuna and Queenfish all in one day.
Due to the lack of road access around the Cape a live-aboard mothership is required to truly experience the untouched fisheries found here. As soon as you board the mothership you are located in one of the best saltwater fishing environments imaginable. Unpack the rods and instantly you are fishing. This is the ultimate in fly fishing adventures as you live, eat and breathe the Cape and all its wonders.
Since Jo and Bianca started the Eclipse Mothership charter out of Weipa four years ago, they have quickly gained a reputation as having one of the finest, live aboard operations in the country.
The fly fishing options in this part of the country are endless, however it’s the huge Milkfish on fly, Permit on expansive flats, and big numbers of Barramundi that anglers are travelling the world to find. Staying in the comforts of the 50ft catamaran Eclipse, it’s perfect for taking our clients into the remote reaches of the west and east coasts of Cape York.
To get you to the fish there are 3 x 5m custom built aluminium tenders with 60hp 4-strokes, flat bottomed and carpeted throughout for comfort. These are perfect for fly-casting and accessing the pristine rivers, creeks and estuarine flat systems that dot the coastline. Chasing Threadfin Salmon, Golden, Tealeaf, Bludger and Giant Trevally, Giant Herring, Queenfish, Mangrove Jack, and Grunter, we will also head to the offshore reef systems to chase a huge array of species such as Coral Trout, Mac and Longtail Tuna.
Live-aboard fishing is an unforgettable experience. The best thing about it is you can fish from sun up to sunset, you don’t waste time getting to the top locations, and you can relax and unwind in a truly spectacular part of the world. As soon as you board the mothership you are located in one of the best saltwater fishing environments imaginable: unpack the rods and instantly you are fishing.
The Eclipse has a full walk-around deck, and an inviting shaded entertainment area which caters comfortably for on-board BBQ’s with amazing views. There is nothing better after a day on the water than having a hot shower, sitting down with a few drinks to discuss the day’s events, enjoying the sunset with some great food, and gearing yourself up for tomorrow’s action.
To ensure your experience is nothing but enjoyable your hosts pride themselves with providing clients with high levels of customer service, a laid back yet professional atmosphere and mouth-watering cuisine which is top class.
The Eclipse was re-fitted in 2014 and now offers:
This means that you can pack light. The main living area and all cabins are fully air conditioned, including a large open-plan galley and saloon area which has entertainment facilities such as a flat screen TV, DVD, iPod and music station.
Bianca and Jo are dedicated to providing guests with value for money with a quality charter that is flexible and adapted to each individual’s needs. After years of working on live aboard vessels the couple now focus on all the little things that matter when on an extended charter, that often get overlooked. They pride themselves with providing a clean and comfortable live-aboard charter with extremely comfortable beds, quality linen, freshly cooked wholesome meals and a relaxed atmosphere.
Guests also have the option of snorkelling on the reef or being taken on a guided dive (PADI Professionals) where you can be shown some of the amazing and exclusive world-class dive sites on offer. A full complement of diving gear and tank fills are available on board at additional rates.
As with all Fly Odyssey bookings, we will provide you with a comprehensive and detailed pre-trip fly fishing guide, prior to your departure.
The rates for this destination vary throughout the season. We offer the best available rates for this destination and do not charge for our service. By calling we are able to tailor a package to specifically suit your requirements at the best available rate. As we have offices in both the United Kingdom and Australia we can also ensure you are being quoted in your local currency. Please enquire for the latest rates and availability, including information on any applicable special offers and group discounts.
CONTACT OUR INTERNATIONAL OFFICE
CONTACT OUR AUSTRALIAN OFFICE
Departing Melbourne/Sydney/Brisbane, Fly Odyssey staff can organise and host corporate groups on the “Eclipse” and have you on the water the same day. For groups looking to combine business with the ultimate live-aboard experience, we can provide tailored 1-on-1 fly fishing tuition while on the water. All the gear is supplied and tied, to ensure your guests or staff get to experience the ultimate saltwater fly fishing experience. Includes photography, and on board chef & hostess to cater to any level of dining you require.