Located 25kms south-west of Emerald, Lake Maraboon is Queensland’s second largest lake and a favourite with locals because of its easy-to-catch crayfish and awesome sunsets.
Things to Experience
Fishing Cast a line from shore or your boat to catch barramundi, golden perch (yellow belly) and silver perch – which have been added to the lake by a local fish stocking group.
You do need a fishing permit but they’re cheap as chips and easy to buy from the Emerald Post Office, or online here or via the QLD Fishing 2.0 app.
Red Claw, a freshwater crayfish, are so abundant in the lake that you don’t need a permit to catch them and there’s no size limit (in fact, you’re asked to not return any to the water).
They’re also really easy to catch. Trap the crayfish using Opera-House pots and vegetables.
Best of all, red claw are easy to cook and delicious to eat!
Boating There are no boating restrictions on Lake Maraboon (other than than usual rules in QLD) but there is a no boating and no fishing zone around the dam wall. Waterskiing, jet skiing and kayaking are popular.
Sunsets here are truly stunning! Simply pick a spot along the shoreline and watch the sky show reflecting on the water.
Swimming has its own designated area, a safe distance from the boat ramp.
Lookout Take in impressive views of the lake, spillway and surrounding area from the lookout.
Picnic Tables and electric barbecues are available. You can bring your dog too but please keep it under control at all times.
Accommodation Camping is not permitted around the lake but there are camping and cabin facilities at the privately-run accommodation provider nearby.
Pick up a copy of our mini guide to Lake Maraboon from one of our visitor information centres or see it online below.
Credit: 1. Jesse Lindemann, 2 and 3. Nathan White Images
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