About us

Topnotch Game Fishing is based at Hamilton Island & is Whitsunday's premier reef/sportfishing company. The Topnotch Team takes immense pride in providing their guests with unparalleled angling experiences, top-of-the-line custom game boats, professional-grade gear, and an exceptional crew. Our motto is "Living on island time and fishing in paradise". Topnotch Game Fishing is Australia's busiest game boat operation, operating all year round.

We are seeking a reliable, organised, self-motivated, hardworking, and experienced guide/mate to join our fishing charter operation. The mate plays a critical role in daily boat operations, guest experience, and successful fishing trips. This position requires strong seamanship, fishing expertise, and a positive attitude, along with the ability to work long hours in a fast-paced marine environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain clean personal hygiene.

• Maintain and organise fishing tackle on a daily basis.

• Assist the captain with the safe operation and navigation of the vessel

• Prepare the boat for trips (fueling, loading gear, ice, bait, provisions)

• Rig rods, reels, tackle, and bait for fishing.

• Assist anglers during hookups, fighting fish, gaffing, tagging and releasing.

• Maintain the boat's cleanliness before, during, and after trips.

• Clean and fillet the fish as requested.

• Perform routine maintenance and washdowns of the vessels and equipment.

• Monitor weather and sea conditions and assist with safety procedures.

• Provide excellent customer service and ensure a positive guest experience.

Qualifications & Experience

• Fishing Experience is essential, as is a passion for fishing. While the skills required to be a perfect guide can be taught, having a genuine love for the sport is crucial!!! Knowledge of knots, fish species, and filleting competence is a must!

• Physical Fitness: Must be physically fit and able to perform the role's duties, including handling fish and equipment.

• First Aid Certificate: Must hold a first aid certificate before commencement.

• Elements Of Shipboard Safety.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• We seek an experienced, reliable, hardworking sports/reef fishing guide to join our team ASAP. As a Topnotch Game Fishing crewman, you will be working on either "Moonshine" 40 Black Watch or "The Pirate" 34 Pirate, doing half-day, 3/4 day, full-day or liveaboard fishing charters.

Benefits

• Accommodation is available for rent on Hamilton Island to suitable applicant.

Please note that we are not seeking a captain.