If wetting a line is your favourite hobby, then the Shoalhaven is the perfect place to exercise your fishing muscles. Enjoy a variety of styles, including freshwater, river, lake, rock, beach and even open ocean game fishing. Try it from land or embark on a boat-based expedition at our favourite South Coast hotspots, a fishing haven awaits! Don’t forget to get a NSW recreation fishing license online, by phone (1300 369 365), or at a tackle shop. For locations, permits, and regulations, visit the NSW Government Department of Primary Industries webpage for more information.
1. Peaceful Fishing around St Georges Basin
Seaside towns near St Georges Basin are perfect for avid fishermen, offering ample land-based and boat-based opportunities to enjoy. Experience calm and sheltered surroundings here, especially in early mornings, providing an ideal start to your peaceful day of fishing. Shore based anglers who don’t mind wading out in the water can find pink nippers at Sanctuary Point, settle in at the boat ramp and jetty at Basin View or test your skills along the canals at Sussex Inlet.
Insider tip: Sussex Inlet is popular for lure and bait fishing, especially during the run-in tide. Use berley with bread, prawns, and pilchards.
2. Deep Sea Fishing in Ulladulla
Ulladulla offers abundant harbour and deep sea fishing, with a rich commercial fishing history dating back to the 1800s. The past time runs deep in the locals’ blood, celebrated annually with the famous Blessing of the Fleet festival. The pier is an ideal starting point, offering ample parking close to fishing spots teeming with tailor, salmon, and occasionally kingfish. If you’re a beginner, why not head out with the experts at Ulladulla Fishing Charters. Jump on a deep sea charter with the masters for a chance to catch some marlin, tuna or jewfish.
Insider tip: Make your way to Burrill Lake Entrance Beach which often boasts excellent conditions for bream, whiting and flathead.
3. Fishing along the Crookhaven River
Base yourself at Greenwell Point, you’ll have easy access to the Crookhaven River, an excellent place to drop a line. This fish mecca is filled with a variety of species, including big mulloway and big blue nosed black bream. Punters can have a go at trying out all sorts of different angling techniques all in the one location. There are also plenty of land-based options to fish off of! Head to the rock walls at Greenwell Point, the public wharves at Orient Point or the breakwall on Comerong Island. If for some reason, the fish just aren’t biting, grab a taste of the local seafood. Check out DJ’s Fish and Chips or Pelican Rocks Cafe . They’ve got some of the best fish and chips on the South Coast!
Insider tip: Prime fishing times include the last hour of run-out tide, first hour of run-in tide, and high tide. Make sure you keep an eye out for mud crabs and blue swimmer crabs that are abundant in these waters.
4. Rock Fishing in Jervis Bay
Cast a line surrounded by super white sand and crystal clear waters. Jervis Bay is a sanctuary for fishermen, with many places to set up and try your luck. This dedicated marine park ensures the conservation of sea life, while allowing recreational fishers to also enjoy the environment. The rock platforms on the northern side of the bay are considered to be the birthplace of land-based game fishing, with ample opportunity to snag some bream, whiting, tuna and kingfish.
Insider tip: The outer torpedo tubes at Point Perpendicular are a local hotspot for the elusive Black Marlin, able to be caught from the shore. We know that it can be tough to fish on your own sometimes, though, so you can also head out on an adventure with Simos Afloat, which gives you a guided tour of the Bay.
5. Freshwater Fishing in the Shoalhaven
Those more inclined towards freshwater fishing will love trying to catch the famous bass and rainbow trout at Lake Yarrunga formed by Tallowa Dam. Situated in Kangaroo Valley, you can also camp at this hotspot, making it a great place to settle in for a weekend and maximise your fishing opportunities! Parts of the Shoalhaven River at Broughton Creek and Danjera Dam and Bewong Creek are also local favourites.
Insider tip: Wake up early and have a crack from the shore right in front of the campsite at Tallowa Dam. This fishing spot is brimming with bass that can be caught easily in the wee hours of the morning.
