Where this local fisho reeled in 22kg monster

A local fisherman has hooked a monster catch off the coast of Rainbow Beach.

Ed Falconer with Red Emperor caught 20/4

A LOCAL fisherman has caught a "once in a lifetime" fish during a recent trip between Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island.

Keely Rose Fishing Charters owner Ed Falconer reeled in a massive 104cm Red Emperor which weighed in at 22kg late last month.

Ed Falconer

Mr Falconer said the fish was a personal best and took him around 20 minutes to land.

"I have been charter fishing and professionally fishing the offshore waters around Rainbow Beach for 30 years, and a Red Emperor of this size is a once in a lifetime fish," he said.

"Myself and my crew member took my charter vessel, the Keely Rose for a maintenance and research trip during the mandatory COVID-19 closure.

Crew member Shaddy, with Maori Cod 20/4

"We checked out some new ground and caught plenty of big fish."

Mr Falconer said he and his relief skipper Shaddy also caught several large Maori cod and Pearl perch, but the Red Emperor was the highlight of the day.

Originally published as