Sport Fishing Guide / Master <24m (Master 5) Skipper

Location: Port Douglas, QLD

Employment: Contract / Day Rate

About the role

Tropical Sportfisher is seeking an experienced offshore skipper and specialist sportfishing guide to operate private outer reef charters from Port Douglas.

You'll be skippering a 25ft Contender centre console (2C survey), guiding small groups of predominantly interstate and international anglers across a range of sportfishing environments. Fishing includes topwater casting for GTs and reef pelagics, flats fishing, light-tackle jigging and trolling.

Our business has built its reputation on consistently high standards, five-star client reviews and word of mouth. We're looking for someone with genuine sportfishing expertise who shares our commitment to professionalism, safety and delivering quality fishing experiences.

Key responsibilities

- Independently skipper, plan and guide full-day outer reef sportfishing charters.

- Guide all aspects of topwater sportfishing, flats fishing, light-tackle jigging and trolling.

- Target GTs, reef pelagics and other tropical sportfish using poppers, stickbaits, jigs and other artificial lures.

- Apply specialist knowledge of fish behaviour, bait, currents, tides and reef systems to locate and target fish.

- Adapt fishing techniques and locations to suit conditions and anglers' experience levels.

- Coach clients on casting, lure presentation, techniques and fish handling.

- Deliver a qualified, personalised client experience while maintaining the standards and reputation of the business.

- Manage vessel preparation, washdown, routine checks and general equipment maintenance.

- Maintain high standards of vessel safety, presentation and equipment care.

What we're looking for

- Current Master <24m NC qualification (formerly Master 5).

- Current First Aid and CPR certification.

- Current medical certificate.

- Proven specialist experience across topwater sportfishing,



GT fishing, flats fishing, light-tackle jigging and trolling.

- Demonstrated ability to independently locate fish and deliver quality offshore sportfishing charters.

- Confidence operating a 25ft centre console in offshore conditions.

- Strong understanding of weather, tides, currents and changing sea conditions.

- Practical mechanical knowledge and confidence with routine vessel checks and basic troubleshooting.

- Excellent communication skills and the ability to guide anglers of varying skill levels.

- A professional, safety-conscious attitude and genuine pride in delivering consistently high-quality client experiences.

- Respect for vessels, fishing equipment and the reputation of the business.

- ABN and availability for contract work throughout the season.

Highly regarded

- Local knowledge of Port Douglas, Cairns and Great Barrier Reef fishing grounds.

- Previous professional sportfishing charter or guiding experience.

- Fly fishing experience.

- Familiarity with Great Barrier Reef Marine Park zoning and regulations.

The opportunity

- Contract position paid on an agreed day-rate basis for charters.

- Additional paid work available for vessel maintenance, preparation and general upkeep at an agreed hourly rate.

- Flexible scheduling according to bookings and suitable weather conditions.

- Ongoing charter opportunities throughout the season.

- Established charter business with an international client base.

- Vessel, quality fishing equipment and client bookings supplied.

How to apply

Please send your resume, relevant qualifications and a brief outline of your sportfishing and guiding experience, particularly across topwater, GT fishing, flats fishing, light-tackle jigging and trolling.

References from previous charter operators and examples of your fishing or guiding experience are welcome.

Please note that only applicants who meet the essential qualifications and experience requirements will receive a response.

📌 Fishing Guide (Port Douglas)
🏢 Tropical Sportfisher
📍 Port Douglas