

Best for intermediate divers, 16-18m, boat entry, moderate current.
Catch Bag Reef is a boat-accessible site located in Portsea, Australia, featuring depths between 16 and 18 metres. This reef is a drift dive site, which must be conducted on the flood tide due to moderate to strong currents. Visibility ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Divers frequently encounter Western Blue Devil, wrasses, and sea stars. Other species recorded at the site include Port Jackson Shark, Southern Rock Lobster, Fiddler Ray, and various nudibranchs. Given the current, this site is suitable for intermediate divers who should plan their entry and exit to align with the water flow.
-38.28573, 144.63302
Current is the variable that defines your dive here, so check conditions carefully before committing and brief your group on a current-assisted drift plan if needed. A boat dive means your skipper's local knowledge is your best asset, so ask them about the tide timing before you gear up.
The site is accessed by boat, located in Lonsdale Bight between Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.
Recorded at this site
Depth
16-18m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
13-19°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
Year-round
Divers regularly encounter Western Blue Devil, wrasses, and sea stars. Other species recorded include Port Jackson Shark, Southern Rock Lobster, Fiddler Ray, Clown Doris, Cat Shark, Blue Throated Wrasse, Butterfly Perch, Goatfish, Moonlighter, and Zoanthid.
No, this site is intended for intermediate divers due to the presence of moderate to strong currents and the requirement for drift diving techniques.
The reef is located at a depth of 16 to 18 metres.
This is a boat dive, and a boat is required to access the site.
Diving is possible year-round from January through December, provided conditions are monitored for the required flood tide.
Diving at Catch Bag Reef in Portsea requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Catch Bag Reef in Portsea. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C.
Expect moderate currents at Catch Bag Reef in Portsea. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Catch Bag Reef in Portsea typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.