SNAPPER FISHING CHARTERS
Chase Melbourne's iconic "Reds" with Captain Mal during the most electrifying fishing season of the year.
The King of the Bay
Snapper, known locally as "Reds", are Melbourne's most celebrated target fish. In season from October to December, they flood into Port Phillip and Western Port in huge numbers, and when conditions are right, Mal takes you straight to them.
Mal typically runs three charters per day during peak season and the boat books out well in advance. Early season departures run from Hastings, with the departure point shifting to Carrum as the season progresses. Mal will always confirm your launch point ahead of time.
It is common to catch your bag limit on a charter when Mal guides you to his secret spots. This knowledge has been built over 40 years on these waters.
Duration
Up to 5 hours on the water
Capacity
Min 5, max 8 passengers
Peak Season
October to December
Departure
Carrum or Hastings (confirmed prior)
"Bag limits are common in peak season"
The Snapper Run
Each year from October, the snapper run is one of nature's great spectacles off Melbourne's coast. Thousands of big Red fish pour into Port Phillip Bay to feed, creating extraordinary fishing conditions that attract anglers from all over Australia.
The run builds through November and by December, when the water temperature is just right and the fish are feeding aggressively, we're firing. Double hook-ups are common. A 10kg Snapper on light line is the stuff of legend, and Mal's put plenty of them in the boat.
October
Season opens
November
Building momentum
December
We're firing
PeakDeparture Times
In Season (Oct–Dec)
5:00 AM
Early start to hit peak feeding windows
Off Peak
6:00 AM
Check schedule when booking
The Schedule
- 1
Meet at the boat ramp at Carrum or Hastings
- 2
Hit the open waters of Port Phillip or Western Port Bay
- 3
Search for schools of snapper using Mal's knowledge
- 4
Change location if required to find the fish
- 5
Head back home with your catch
What to Bring
- Sunglasses and hat
- Drink bottles of water
- Sunscreen lotion
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Weatherproof jacket and older clothes
- Esky in your car (we bag your fish)
Fishing Licence: Make sure you have a valid Victorian fishing licence before you leave. Available online at vfa.vic.gov.au.
Common Questions
Do you clean our fish?
No, but we will bleed them once caught and have them placed on ice to keep them in the best condition.
Do I have to fight the fish by myself?
You can take it in turns. Some fish can take time to bring in. We always leave that question to the person on the rod.
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
When going through Port Phillip heads every person on the boat must wear a life jacket, then it is up to you once we are out of the heads.
What size will the fish be?
There are limits placed on the minimum size of most fish by the Victorian Fishing Authority. Mal ensures all fish meet legal size requirements.
What is the minimum age for children?
In the bays, we recommend children aged 5 and above.
Book Your Snapper Charter
Peak season books out fast. Secure your spot early.
Snapper Charter
From $200 per person
- All bait & tackle included
- Up to 5 hours on the water
- Fish bled & iced on board
Minimum 5 people required for a charter to proceed. Maximum 8 people.
Fishing outside peak season? Check our Mixed Bag charters →