Annan River Public Boat Ramp, Cooktown

Located just five minutes south of Cooktown along the Mulligan Highway, the Annan River Public Boat Ramp offers a convenient launching point into the scenic Annan River, with direct access to Walker Bay. Tucked away in Far North Queensland, this facility features a single-lane concrete ramp, making it a popular choice for anglers and recreational boaters exploring the region's productive waterways.

The ramp provides reliable access to the river, although there are no on-site amenities, so it's best to come prepared before launching. Boaters should exercise caution when navigating the river, especially during low tide. Shallow sections, rocky areas, submerged snags, and deep holes are common, particularly upstream of the bridge, where careful navigation is essential. The river mouth is predominantly sandy, with the Esk River entering from the south and Saltwater Creek from the north. Compared to the nearby Endeavour River, the Annan generally runs cleaner and slightly warmer, making it an attractive option for many anglers.

The Annan River is well regarded as a fishing destination, offering opportunities to target barramundi throughout the estuary and around the mouth at Walker Bay. The area is also known for producing impressive saltwater barra on lures, live bait, and fly, along with mangrove jack, fingermark, queenfish, and trevally. Mud crabbing is another local favourite, particularly after the first seasonal rains.

Visitors should also be aware that crocodiles inhabit the Annan River. For your safety, swimming is strictly prohibited, and fishing directly from the edge of the boat ramp is discouraged. It is illegal to deliberately feed crocodiles or leave fish scraps in the water, with significant penalties applying in Queensland for doing so.

While simple in its facilities, the Annan River Public Boat Ramp serves as an excellent gateway to one of the region's most rewarding fishing and boating destinations, offering easy access to diverse estuary waters and the picturesque coastline of Walker Bay.