Lake Macquarie is renowned for fishing, so why not cast your line in against the backdrop of stunning lakeside landscapes, catch big and win big at the annual Let’s Fish Lake Mac 2024!
Held on the largest coastal saltwater lake in Australia, the catch-and-release style competition is back for its fourth year, spanning over two days on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November. This year there’s $100,000 in tagged fish up for grabs thanks to Lake Macquarie City Council and BCF.
In addition to our usual catch and release competition prizes, a flathead, bream, tailor and whiting will each be tagged and released into the lake shortly before the event begins, and you could win a $25,000 bounty!
The rules are simple- Choose when on the weekend you, your mates or the family can get together to fish, then take to the lake and enjoy the fun! Register here.
If you’re travelling to Lake Macquarie, here is your local guide to all things fishing in the area!
Top spots to fish
Home to one of the largest saltwater lakes in Australia, with 174km of lakefront, as well as more than 32km of coastline, Lake Macquarie is a veritable mecca for fishers.
Known as one of the best places in Lake Mac to experience shore fishing, Shingle Splitters Point, is a local favourite. Located in Shingle Splitters Point Park on Queen Street, Balcolyn, you’ll mainly be catching Flathead and Whiting if you visit here.
Speers Point Jetty, an ideal spot for families, the water surrounding Speers Point Jetty is the place to find species like Tailor, Bream and Whiting.
Drive over the Swansea Bridge and you are sure to see plenty of keen fishers out and about. The Channel’s tidal current and proximity to the open ocean attracts a wide variety of larger fish species that are harder to find in the Lake.
Check out the top 10 places to cast a line here.
Boat & Fishing Equipment Hire
Looking to set sail on a peaceful angling experience? Day Trippin Tours and Renegade Blue Charters, offer day charter trips where you will be taken to the local spots and hopefully catch a whopper. Embark on a memorable aquatic journey with Awaba Boat Hire’s Fishing Charter service who also offer fishing rod hire.
Hire a boat and discover local gems yourself, Trinity Point Marina Watersports has Pontoon BBQ Boat hire so you can explore south Lake Macquarie at your own pace. Lake Mac Watersports offers a range of boat hire options with a capacity from 6-12 passengers, with rod hire and bait available.
Accessible fishing
Cast a line at Bolton Point public jetty; Lake Macquarie's first fully accessible fishing platform, featuring a wider access to allow wheelchairs. It also features a fishing rod resting ledge and two accessible car parks.
If you’d prefer to get out on the water, Lake Mac Watersports has BBQ Pontoon Boat Hire available with which is wheelchair accessible.
All-inclusive Fishing at Bolton Point
The all-inclusive disability program will be at the newly completed fishing platform at Bolton Point on beautiful Lake Macquarie.
Date: Saturday the 23rd and Sunday 24th of November
Time: Fishing times 10am - 2.30pm each day
Disability parking and wheelchair access is opposite the platform. Register through the "Lets Fish Lake Mac" website and turn up on the day.
Day Trippin Charters is offering exclusive trips for NDIS participants
Take a 90-minute fishing trip with Cooper at Day Trippin Charters. These 90-minute fishing trips will start every 90 minutes from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (with the final trip finishing at 4:30 pm).
Each trip accommodates up to 4 individuals or 2 groups of 2, with NDIS participants allowed one accompanying carer or parent.
During the hour-long fishing experience, you'll enjoy quality time on the water, while the remaining 30 minutes will allow for a smooth transition between groups.
For more information head to www.daytrippincharters.com.au/open-day
To book, click here.
Accommodation
Waking up bright & early to head out and make the most of the increased fish activity? Reduce your travelling time by staying right by the lake.
Relax and enjoy the comfort and convenience of Swansea Lakeside Holiday Park, Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park or Raffertys Resort. To enjoy water views from the comfort of your room, consider Caves Coastal, The Esplanade Motel or The Brighton. Or for an intimate water experience, check out Lake Macquarie Houseboats or a luxury beachside stay with Weekenda.
Staying longer? View our maps and guides for more to see in Lake Macquarie.