Fishing Boat Rental & Fishing Boat Charter — MatesBoat
There's a particular kind of satisfaction that comes from a good day's fishing. The early start, the quiet water before the rest of the world wakes up, the local knowledge that puts you in exactly the right spot at exactly the right time. Whether you're a seasoned angler or someone who hasn't had a line in the water since childhood, a fishing boat rental or fishing boat charter through MatesBoat is the simplest way to make it happen.
Browse fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter listings across Australia's best fishing destinations. Connect directly with experienced fishing guides, licensed charter operators, and private owners who know their local waterways better than anyone. No agency fees, no inflated booking costs, no unnecessary complexity — just straightforward access to some of the best fishing experiences Australia has to offer.
Browse Fishing Boats ListingsWhat Is Fishing Boats?
Fishing boat rental listings on MatesBoat cover a wide range of vessel types, sizes, and fishing styles. From compact tinnies and centre consoles suited to bay and estuary fishing, through to larger offshore vessels equipped for deep water and open ocean targeting, the right boat for the right type of fishing is here.
When you're comparing fishing boat rental options, pay attention to what's included in the hire fee. Fuel, bait, tackle, and fishing licences vary from listing to listing — the listing details and a direct conversation with the owner will give you the full picture before you book.
A fishing boat charter is a different experience to a self-drive rental — and for many anglers, it's the better one. Your skipper is an experienced, licensed operator who knows the local waterways, understands the seasonal patterns of the target species, and has the kind of accumulated knowledge that takes years to develop and can't be found in any fishing app or online guide.
If you've ever come back from a fishing trip empty-handed and wondered what you did wrong, a guided fishing boat charter is the answer. The skipper's job is to put fish in front of you — and the review profiles on MatesBoat will tell you very quickly which operators consistently deliver on that.
For the angler who already knows their way around the water, a self-drive fishing boat rental is one of the best value experiences available through MatesBoat. Access to a properly equipped fishing vessel — without the cost of ownership, without the trailer, without the maintenance — for the days you actually want to be on the water.
Most owners running fishing boat rental listings on MatesBoat are anglers themselves. They know their local water, they know what the boat can handle, and they're usually happy to share the good spots with someone who's going to take care of their vessel and bring it back in the same condition they found it.
What's Included
Why Choose Fishing Boats?
The difference between a good day's fishing and a great one often comes down to two things: the right vessel and the right local knowledge. A quality fishing boat rental gets you on the water in a properly equipped boat, in the right location, with everything you need to fish effectively. A skippered fishing boat charter adds an experienced guide into the equation — someone who knows exactly where the fish are, what they're feeding on, and how to put you in the best possible position to catch them.
For most people, the hardest part of planning a fishing trip isn't the fishing itself — it's the logistics. Finding a suitable vessel. Knowing which stretch of water to target for the species you're after. Understanding local regulations, tides, and conditions. A fishing boat charter removes all of that friction. Your skipper handles the planning, the navigation, and the local intelligence — you just show up, get on board, and fish.
A self-drive fishing boat rental is the right choice for licensed, experienced anglers who want the freedom to fish their own spots at their own pace. You know the water, you know your technique, and you just need access to a well-equipped vessel to make the most of the day. MatesBoat has both, and the listings tell you exactly what each one involves.
Fishing boat charters are one of the most popular group activity options on MatesBoat — and it's not hard to see why. A shared day on the water, chasing fish with a knowledgeable local guide, is genuinely enjoyable regardless of whether everyone on board is a seasoned angler. The skipper handles everything, the setting does half the work, and even a slow day's fishing on a well-run fishing boat charter tends to be a better day than most things you could do on land.
Group fishing boat charters work well for birthday celebrations, bucks parties, corporate team days, sporting club outings, and family groups spanning multiple generations. If you're booking for a larger group, reach out to the operator directly — most fishing boat charter listings accommodate groups of varying sizes, and many operators have multiple vessels available for larger bookings.
Wheelchair accessible fishing boat charters are also available through MatesBoat — check individual listing details and reach out to the operator to confirm accessibility requirements before booking.
Perfect For These Occasions
Group celebrations and corporate days
Birthday celebrations, bucks parties, corporate team days, and sporting club outings all work brilliantly on a fishing boat charter. The skipper handles everything — you and your group just show up and fish.
Beginners and first-timers
A guided fishing boat charter is one of the best ways to learn. Your skipper covers rod and reel setup, knot tying, lure techniques, and local knowledge that would take years to develop on your own. Some listings specifically offer tuition sessions for beginners.
DIY self-drive fishing
For licensed, experienced anglers who want the freedom to fish their own spots at their own pace. Browse by location, vessel type, and available dates — and reach out to the owner directly if you have specific questions about the boat's capabilities.
Multi-day fishing adventures
Multi-day fishing boat rental options are available for extended trips. Lake Eildon listings are well suited to multi-day arrangements, with trophy Murray Cod and Trout fishing across multiple sessions. Confirm duration and pricing directly with the owner.
How to Find the Right Fishing Boats
MatesBoat fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter listings span some of Australia's most productive and scenic fishing destinations.
Port Phillip Bay, Victoria — One of Australia's most accessible and diverse fishing grounds, with strong populations of Snapper, Whiting, Calamari, and Flathead year-round. Fishing boat charters operating out of St Kilda, Carrum, Frankston, and Mornington give you direct access to the best of the Bay.
Corio Bay, Geelong — A productive estuary fishery with great access for all experience levels. Fishing boat rental and charter options out of Geelong are well suited to family groups and first-time anglers.
Lake Eildon, Victoria — Famous for trophy-sized Murray Cod, Yellowbelly, and Trout. Fishing boat rentals at Lake Eildon come with local knowledge built in — you'll know where to start before you leave the dock.
Mordialloc and Bayside — Specialist lure fishing charters operating out of the Bayside region targeting a wide range of species using soft plastics and hard body lures.
Mallacoota and East Gippsland — Remote, beautiful, and exceptionally productive. Fishing boat rental options in this region are for anglers who want an experience well away from the crowds.
New listings are added to MatesBoat regularly as more operators and private owners join the platform — browse by location to see what's currently available in your area.
Own a fishing boat that sits between your own trips? Fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter are among the most consistently in-demand categories on MatesBoat, and quality listings in good fishing locations book out quickly.
Listing your vessel is completely free. No commissions, no advertising fees, no subscription. Set your own rates, manage your own availability, and connect directly with anglers who are actively searching for fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter options in your area. MatesBoat handles the marketing and the platform infrastructure — you handle the fishing.
Whether you're a licensed charter operator looking to grow your bookings or a private owner who wants to put a well-equipped fishing boat to work on the days it would otherwise sit at the ramp, MatesBoat is the right platform. Get listed today — it's free, it takes minutes, and the demand is already there.
From bay fishing and estuary angling to offshore deep water charters and freshwater lake fishing, MatesBoat brings together Australia's best fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter experiences in one place. Browse listings, find the right vessel and operator for your plans, and book directly with the owner.
No agency fees. No inflated prices. Just great fishing, on the right boat, with people who know exactly what they're doing.
Live Fishing Boats Listings
Get expert guidance from Chris on the right fishing tackle and equipment needed to catch this magnificent fish. The boat comes equipped with the latest Garmin technology, helping you narrow down the search for the catch of a lifetime. The Boat: 390 Explorer Outback Aluminium Fishing Boat 25hp Yamaha 4-stroke Motor Minn Kota Electric Motor Casting Deck Bimini Auto Bilge Pump Safety Equipment Rates: $300 (Full Day) $200 (Half Day) see our other listing here: Tinaroo Half Day Fishing Boat Hire This includes fuel, and the boat is launched and retrieved for you. The right fishing gear is included to help you catch that dream Barra! Use this exciting opportunity to explore Lake Tinaroo, home of the legendary metre-plus Barramundi!
Jaysons Largest Snapper to be caught aboard Pro Red Fishing Charters in Port Phillip Bay Snapper is an awesome 10.82kg and Westernport Snapper to over 9kg! And Big Melbourne Kingfish to over 11kg. The prized Southern Bluefin Tuna at Portland from 8KG to 111KG! And also Big Gummy Sharks to 25KG and School Sharks and Huge 7 Gill Sharks to 11ft, King George Whiting, Salmon, Squid and a variety of other Fish in and around Melbourne's Bays, also Portland Bluefin Tuna from April to July. Safety Policy People under the influence of Drugs or Alcohol before departure will not be allowed to board and deposits will not be returned. Alcohol Policy Our Alcohol policy is a max of 2 drinks per person ( Cans only ) (No glass Allowed). Also, anyone who consumes Drugs or behaves in a threatening matter to others or Crew, Water Police will be called and Charter concluded. Important Anyone with a medical condition should inform us before departure etc and we shall not be held liable for any injures or deaths.
You are the captain of your Port Phillip Bay Adventure. Choose your course… follow the fish bites, chase the sun or float in the calmness, you decide! Our helpful and knowledgeable crew are more than happy to give you tips, ideas and insight. 6 hours - $500 Full Day session - (for as long as you want) $650 Available from first light to sunset. Available 365 days of the year. Max 6 people 4 people is the best number for fishing BYO bait All safety gear supplied Rods and Tackle can be supplied 15 min compulsory induction focusing on safety, navigational hazards, boat operation and fishing tips. Licence holder must sign our registered hire agreement. Call half hour before returning so we can meet you at the ramp.
Having worked in the local marine industry for over 25 years as a professional cray fisherman, we know all the right spots to go ensuring we put you on the fish. Enjoy an eco-tour to the Abrolhos Islands or get a feed of crayfish. Why not both? We supply all the fishing gear, bait, tackle, cold water and ice. Our charters are swell/wind based and the times of departure can vary. We operate under a strict fish for the future policy and the current limit is 2 demersal fish per person. Once boat limit has been achieved the fishing charter will cease. If you have booked for the fish/cray combo tour sit back and relax while we pull the pots for you and give you an educational tour of the crayfish lifecycle and rich history of the West Australian Coast fishing industry. - Day fishing charters. - Bait, tackle and bottle water supplied. - Keep what you catch! - No licence required !
Inshore tours are run as either a half-day charter of around 4 hours. We’ll travel through some of the island's most talked about bays and beaches, discovering the inner fringing reefs of Magnetic Island and unintentionally sightseeing the island’s beautiful coastline and scenery as we troll past some spectacular headlands. Of the island's 23 bays and beaches, 14 are fishable and many offer opportunities to fish shipwrecks, shoals, rocks, reefs, and mangroves. We'll use a combination of bait and trolling, bottom bashing for reef fish including Coral Trout, Tusk Fish, Red Emperor, Trevally, Cods, and a whole bunch of other species, while also chasing pelagic fish including Spotted Mackerels and Tuna. Our inshore tours can accommodate up to 5 people and you’re welcome to bring your own provisions.
Brisbane Boat Rentals offers a simple, no-fuss way to get out on the water with a self-drive Quintrex 430 Fishabout based in Marsden (south Brisbane). It’s a practical setup for locals and visitors who want the freedom of running their own day—whether that’s a family cruise, a quick bay mission, or a relaxed explore up the river. The boat comes on a trailer, so you can tow it to the ramp that suits your plan (they’ll run you through the handover so you’re comfortable with the hookup, launch and return process). Once you’re away, you’ve got a stable, easy-to-handle rig suited to SEQ conditions. Safety and confidence are a big focus. Expect a proper briefing before you leave, plus the core safety gear onboard. If the weather turns it on, rescheduling options are available so you’re not forced into a sketchy day just to “use the booking”. Optional add-ons are available depending on what you’re chasing (for example, fishing or watersports extras), and multi-day hire can be arranged if you’re planning a longer stint. Perfect for anyone who already holds a Queensland recreational boat licence and wants a straightforward self-drive hire with clear pricing and a smooth pickup experience.
Bayside Sportfishing operates customized and guided fishing charters in the Black Rock, Ricketts Point and Mordialloc region of Port Phillip Bay targeting fish species solely using a wide range of soft plastic and hard body lures. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, our aim is to educate and provide guidance on effective lure fishing techniques. Our boat is a metre Polycraft Brumby, centre console. Powered by a 80hp Honda 4 stroke outboard, it is also kitted out with a Minn Kota Terrova bow mounted electric motor and a Humminbird Helix 10 sounder. So whether you wish to target snapper out on the bay or bream in the sheltered waters around Patterson Lakes, please give us a call to discuss your next fishing trip. All bookings are subject to availability. Duration: 4 hours Departs: Mordialloc Includes: Boat, expert guide, all fishing equipment
Cod fishing: Livescope fishing, blind casting or trolling totally upto you and what you like/want to do. Or Trout fishing. Trolling and down rigging lures. Take your pick cod fishing or trout fishing or a bit of both. All fishing gear is supplied, welcome to bring your own rods/gear. Byo food/drinks/fishing license. Warm clothing for those keen to very early Or late sessions is highly recommended as it can get very cold.
Boat hire at Lake Eildon, Victoria’s high country. If you are serious about your fishing and are looking for a great action fishing experience, you’ve come to the right place. At Northern Waters Boat Hire, we love fishing and everything about fishing.
This is a Party Cruise and can be booked for between 9 AM & 2 PM. Get your party shoes on and book this amazing cruise around Geelong/Corio Bay. The cruise is for 4 to 5 hours. What's included: Party pies, sausage rolls, cocktail sausages, tea and coffee. Beer and wine $7 Soft drinks are $4 Skipper, Deckhand and Kitchen Hand.(Waiter/waitress). Perfect for:- Sporting clubs, Family groups, Social clubs, Work functions, Christmas parties, Team building activities, Wheelchair accessible with a purpose-built flat deck for people of all age’s and abilities! Facilities Aboard: BBQ, Pizza Oven, disabled toilet & Free Tea and Coffee. Pick Up points: Please arrive 15mins before your departure time. You will be advised at the time of booking which pickup point your charter will leave from. Point 1 – 1 Yarra Street, Geelong. Behind Fisherman’s Pier Restaurant. Point 2 – St Helens Boat Ramp, the bay end of Swinburne Street, North Geelong. East side Dock. Point 3 – Wangim Walk 15 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong Foreshore. The Corio Princess is Wheelchair Accessible! Our deck has been purpose built specifically with a flat deck so it is wheelchair accessible with disabled toilet facilities aboard. We run charters specific to those with disabilities, just let Charles know.
Frequently Asked Questions
A fishing boat rental is a self-drive arrangement — you hire the vessel and fish at your own pace, in your own spots, with your own gear. A fishing boat charter includes an experienced, licensed skipper who handles the vessel and brings the local knowledge — they know the species, the spots, and the conditions. Both are available on MatesBoat, and which suits you depends on your experience level and what you want from the day.
A valid recreational fishing licence is required for most fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter bookings in Victoria — visit service.vic.gov.au to check eligibility and purchase a licence before your trip. Licence requirements vary by state — check the relevant state authority for current requirements in your location.
For fishing boat rental listings where you're taking the helm yourself, a valid recreational marine licence appropriate for the vessel is required. For fishing boat charter listings with a licensed skipper on board, no boat licence is needed. Licence requirements are clearly stated on each listing — read these carefully before enquiring.
Most fishing boat charter listings on MatesBoat include rods, reels, tackle, bait, and a quality sounder or fish finder. Fishing boat rental listings vary — some include full gear, others require you to bring your own. Read the listing inclusions carefully and confirm with the owner what's provided before booking.
It depends on location, season, and vessel capability. Port Phillip Bay fishing boat charter listings typically target Snapper, Whiting, Flathead, and Calamari. Offshore listings heading through the Heads or out into open water target Kingfish, Tuna, Marlin, and pelagic species. Freshwater listings at Lake Eildon target Murray Cod, Yellowbelly, and Trout. Each fishing boat charter listing on MatesBoat specifies the target species and fishing style.
Group sizes vary by vessel. Smaller fishing boat charter listings accommodate two to four anglers, while larger purpose-built charter vessels can take groups of ten or more. Some listings on MatesBoat are specifically designed for larger groups — sporting clubs, family groups, work functions, and social clubs. Check the maximum capacity on each listing and reach out to the operator for group-specific requirements.
Absolutely. A guided fishing boat charter with an experienced skipper is one of the best ways to learn — they'll cover rod and reel setup, knot tying, lure techniques, and local knowledge that would take years to develop on your own. Some listings on MatesBoat specifically offer lure fishing tuition sessions for beginners. If it's your first time, a fishing boat charter removes all the guesswork.
Yes — multi-day fishing boat rental options are available through MatesBoat for extended fishing trips. Lake Eildon listings in particular are well suited to multi-day arrangements, with trophy Murray Cod and Trout fishing across multiple sessions. Confirm duration and pricing directly with the owner when enquiring.
Yes — fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter are among the most consistently in-demand categories on MatesBoat. Listing is completely free, with no commissions and no lock-in. You set your rates, manage your availability, and MatesBoat handles the marketing and SEO.
Browse fishing boat rental and fishing boat charter listings on MatesBoat by location, target species, group size, and duration. Each listing includes full vessel details, what's included, the skipper or owner behind it, and how to get in touch directly. Reach out when something looks right — no agency fees, no inflated prices, just straightforward access to the best fishing experiences Australia has to offer.