Somerset Dam Bass

Somerset Region, QLD, Australia · Freshwater · Beginner

One of Queensland's premier stocked impoundments, famous for schooled Australian bass in open water. Sound up the schools and drop soft vibes or blades for hot mid-water action.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat
  • Boat ramp: Seqwater's public boat ramp at Westvale Road, at the northern end of Lake Somerset, is single-lane; boating and jetskiing are also based at the Kirkleagh Recreation Area
  • Facilities: Picnic areas (Westvale Road)

A 6-knot speed limit applies in the Westvale Road section of the lake. Fishing needs a Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIPS) as well as a Queensland fishing licence. Seqwater's Lake Somerset Recreation Guide (downloadable from their site) has the full facility map.

Access information source

Species

  • Australian bass
  • golden perch
  • saratoga

Best times to fish

  • Schooled fish (autumn-winter)
  • Dawn topwater in summer
  • Stable weather patterns

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Light spin combo (10-15lb braid)
  • Soft vibes and blades
  • Sounder
  • Tail spinners

Optional

  • Electric motor
  • Kayak
  • Trolling hardbodies

Regulations and requirements

  • Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIPS) required to fish the dam
  • Bass closed season does not apply in impoundments
  • Check QLD DAF rules

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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