Hervey Bay is a vast, sheltered estuary covering approximately 4,000 square kilometers along the Queensland coast. It is protected from the open ocean swells of the Coral Sea by the southern extension of the Great Barrier Reef and by K'gari (Fraser Island) to the east, creating a unique marine environment of shallow bays, sheltered channels, and intricate straits. The bay's average depth is around 20 meters, with a maximum depth of about 30 meters. This combination of protection and varied bathymetry supports a rich ecosystem, making it a premier destination for both recreational and sport fishing. Parts of the bay are encompassed by the Great Sandy Marine Park.