Fishing

Lizard Island is one of the big game-fishing centers in Australia, with several world records set here since the mid-1990s. Game fishing is generally best in spring and early summer, and giant black marlin weighing more than 1,000 pounds are no rarity. September through December, the folk from Lizard Island run full-day game-fishing trips to the outer reef; January through August, you can book half-day bottom-fishing excursions.

Lizard Island Sportfishing. Even though fishing is banned in the waters immediately off Lizard Island, world-renowned fishing grounds lie less than an hour away. From September through December, fishing enthusiasts arrive in droves to land tuna, sailfish, mahimahi, and, if they're lucky, the legendary "Grander" black marlin. From January to August, you might nab trevally, mackerel, or queenfish. Lizard Island Resort arranges small-group, high-adrenaline trips to the outer reef and half- and full-day inner reef excursions on its 51-foot Riviera Platinum Model Flybridge cruiser, Fascination III. An outer-reef game-fishing day trip, including heavy tackle, lunch, and light refreshments, costs from A$2,995 for up to four people; a half-day bottom-fishing excursion, with bait, light tackle, and refreshments, is from A$1,995. For all fishing trips, prebooking is essential. Lizard Island Resort jetty, Lizard Island, Queensland, 4871. 03/9426–7550; 1300/8876724; 884/731–551; www.lizardisland.com.au. From A$1995.