Fishing in Welford National Park

Welford National Park sits in central-west Queensland's Channel Country, where the Barcoo River cuts through red dune country before eventually feeding into Cooper Creek far to the south.

The park's fishing is built around that river — a slow-moving, semi-arid waterway lined with river red gums and coolibah trees, punctuated by waterholes that hold water long after the surrounding country dries out.

The Barcoo River is the one water inside the park that anchors the fishing. Little Boomerang Waterhole, on the river's banks within the park, is the main access point — it's also the park's only camping area, so most anglers fish from here.

The shade of the red gums makes it a workable camp even in the shoulder months.

The ideal window to visit is April through September, when temperatures are manageable; summer can push above 40°C, and the wet season from December to March brings the real risk of flooding and park closures that can cut off access entirely.

Fishing in the Barcoo River is permitted within the park. Size and bag limits apply — contact Queensland Fisheries for the current rules before you go, as these can change. This is remote country.

Rangers are not reliably on hand, mobile coverage is limited, and you'll need to be self-sufficient with water and supplies.

The park is well signposted off the Quilpie–Windorah Road, but check for park alerts before leaving — a single rain event upstream can transform access conditions fast. The Barcoo in this stretch rewards patience over technique.

Fish the waterholes in the cooler parts of the day, read the water carefully, and treat the place accordingly.