If you love fishing, the the Lake Macquarie Fishing Guide is the way. As Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lake, the Lake offers endless opportunities to cast a line, when fishing from the shore, a boat, a kayak, or even diving in for spearfishing. The lake connects directly to the ocean through Swansea Channel, ensuring a rich mix of fish species all year round.
Unlike some other estuaries along the NSW coast, Lake Macquarie isn’t just a fishing spot—it’s an entire fishing experience. You can catch whiting from a jetty, chasing a trophy-sized mulloway under moonlight, or scooping up fresh prawns on a summer night, this lake has it all.
Why is Lake Macquarie a Top Fishing Destination?
- Huge variety of fish species – From flathead and bream to squid and blue swimmer crabs, there’s something for every angler.
- Year-round fishing – Thanks to its saltwater flow, you can catch fish in any season.
- Accessible spots everywhere – Jetty fishing, beach fishing, kayak fishing, deep-water drop-offs—Lake Macquarie has it all.
- Perfect for all skill levels – Whether you’re a beginner with a simple handline or an expert with high-end gear, you’ll find success here.
Different Fishing Methods in Lake Macquarie
Fishing in Lake Macquarie isn’t just about casting a rod and waiting. Depending on what you’re after, you might be using a net, a crab pot, or even diving beneath the surface with a spear. Below, we’ll break down the best fishing methods and how to use them effectively.
Rod and Reel Fishing
Rod and reel fishing is by far the most popular method in Lake Macquarie. Whether you’re fishing from the shore, a jetty, or a boat, there are plenty of opportunities to land a catch.
Best Spots for Land-Based Fishing:
- Swansea Channel – Perfect for catching bream, flathead, and tailor.
- Belmont Bay – Great for whiting and luderick, especially near the weed beds.
- Wangi Wangi Point – A known flathead hotspot, with deep-water access for mulloway.
Techniques for Different Fish Species:
- Flathead: Soft plastics worked along the bottom are deadly. Try paddle tails or vibes near drop-offs.
- Bream: Light line, a small running sinker, and prawns or worms work wonders.
- Whiting: Fish the sand flats with live worms or surface poppers for an exciting bite.
- Mulloway (Jewfish): Use live squid or mullet at night, near deep holes and bridge pylons.
Recommended Gear:
- Rod: A 2-4kg rod for bream and whiting; 6-10kg for flathead and mulloway.
- Reel: A 2500-3000 size reel for most lake species, with braid line and a fluorocarbon leader.
- Bait: Live bait always gets better results, but soft plastics and hardbody lures work well too.
Spearfishing
For the more adventurous anglers, spearfishing in Lake Macquarie can be incredibly rewarding. With clear waters in the right conditions, the lake is home to bream, flathead, luderick, and even squid.
Best Locations for Spearfishing:
- Swansea Heads – Offers deeper water and a variety of reef fish.
- Pulbah Island – A great spot for flathead and bream in rocky areas.
- Wangi Wangi Reefs – Clearer water on calm days, with luderick and squid.
Essential Gear:
- Speargun or pole spear (shorter spearguns are best for inshore areas).
- Mask, snorkel, and fins for maneuverability.
- Wetsuit (for warmth and protection).
Regulations & Safety:
- Spearfishing is NOT allowed in certain areas, especially around jetties and swimming zones.
- Check NSW fishing regulations for bag limits and size restrictions.
- Always dive with a buddy for safety, especially in deeper water.
Net Fishing
Using a cast net is a great way to catch live bait like prawns, mullet, and herring, which can then be used for catching bigger fish. It’s legal in Lake Macquarie but must be done responsibly.
Best Times & Places for Net Fishing:
- Nighttime near sandbanks – Best for prawns, especially in warmer months.
- Shallow estuary areas – Great for catching baitfish like mullet.
Rules to Follow:
- Only cast nets up to 3.7m in diameter are allowed.
- Prawn netting is seasonal – Always check NSW DPI regulations.
- Avoid netting in restricted areas (e.g., swimming zones, conservation zones).
Trap and Pot Fishing
If you’re keen on catching crabs, setting up traps and pots is a great method.
Best Spots for Crabbing:
- Blue Swimmer Crabs – Found in sandy areas with seagrass, especially in Belmont Bay and Marks Point.
- Mud Crabs – Found near mangroves and muddy creeks around Swan Bay and Dora Creek.
Best Bait for Crab Pots:
- Fish frames, mullet heads, or raw chicken work best.
Legal Requirements:
- Each person can use up to two crab traps.
- All crabs must meet minimum size limits and female crabs with eggs must be released.
Fish Species in Lake Macquarie & How to Catch Them
Lake Macquarie is teeming with life, offering anglers a chance to target a variety of saltwater species. Some are best caught at dawn, others during the changing tides, and a few require patience and the right technique. Understanding their feeding habits, preferred environments, and the best bait or lures will make all the difference.
Dusky Flathead
Flathead are one of the most popular fish in Lake Macquarie, found in sandy shallows, drop-offs, and along weed beds where they lie in wait for unsuspecting prey. The best time to catch them is on an incoming tide when they move into the shallows to ambush baitfish. A simple but deadly technique is using soft plastics, particularly paddle tails or curly tail grubs, slowly hopped across the bottom. Live poddy mullet or pilchards on a lightly weighted rig also work well, especially when fishing deeper channels or drop-offs.
Yellowfin Bream
Bream are opportunistic feeders that thrive around structures like jetties, rock walls, and submerged timber. They respond well to lightly weighted baits, especially prawns, mullet strips, and live nippers. Lure anglers often have success with small hardbody lures and surface poppers during low-light conditions. The best bites usually happen around high tide when they move in closer to feed.
Sand Whiting
These fish are common along the sandy flats and are best targeted using fresh bait such as live worms or yabbies. A lightly weighted rig with a long leader keeps the bait moving naturally, which is key to enticing a bite. During warmer months, they become more aggressive and will readily strike at small surface lures, making for an exciting topwater fishing experience. The best fishing conditions include a rising tide over shallow flats, particularly early morning or late afternoon.
Tailor
Tailor are aggressive hunters, often found schooling in open water near baitfish. They strike fast-moving lures, with metal slugs, poppers, and diving minnows being the most effective. Fishing around dawn and dusk, especially near Swansea Channel or deeper drop-offs, usually produces the best results. Pilchards on gang hooks are another reliable option, especially when tailor are feeding close to the surface.
Mulloway (Jewfish)
Catching a mulloway requires patience, as they are elusive and often found in deeper holes, under bridges, or along rocky structures. The best baits include live squid, mullet, or large soft plastics, worked slowly along the bottom. Night fishing on a rising tide, particularly around the full moon, increases the chances of hooking one of these prized fish.
Luderick (Blackfish)
Luderick fishing is an art that requires the right conditions and bait presentation. Found around rock walls, jetties, and bridges, they primarily feed on weed. The best approach is using a float rig with either green weed or cabbage weed, allowing the bait to drift naturally. Fishing during high tide when they are actively feeding around structure produces the best results.
Other Species to Target
Lake Macquarie offers more than just fish. Those looking to diversify their catch can find squid, prawns, crabs, and even eels.
Squid (Southern Calamari)
Squid can be caught throughout the lake, especially near weed beds, jetties, and rock walls where they hunt for baitfish. The key to success is using squid jigs in natural colors, particularly during the evening or early morning. A slow, twitching retrieve mimicking the movement of a fleeing prawn often triggers a strike. The best conditions are during a slack tide when the water movement is minimal, allowing jigs to remain in the strike zone longer.
Prawns
Prawning is a summer tradition in Lake Macquarie, with the best catches happening on dark, moonless nights. A scoop net and a bright light are essential tools, as prawns become more active and easier to spot in the shallows. Areas near sandy banks, especially around Swansea, Belmont, and Murrays Beach, often produce good hauls. The season typically peaks from late November through February, with the best results coming on an outgoing tide.
Blue Swimmer Crabs
Crabbing in Lake Macquarie is highly productive, particularly for blue swimmer crabs. These crustaceans thrive in sandy areas and are best caught using drop nets or crab pots baited with fish frames or chicken carcasses. Setting pots in areas with a steady current, like Belmont Bay and Marks Point, often leads to a great haul. The warmer months bring the best results, especially when the tide is moving.
Mud Crabs
For those after something bigger, mud crabs can be found lurking around mangroves and muddy creeks, particularly near Dora Creek and the southern sections of the lake. Large crab pots baited with fish frames or raw chicken work well when placed in deeper sections with some structure. Checking the pots regularly ensures crabs don’t escape or get taken by other marine life.
Eels
Eels are an overlooked catch but are plentiful in the lake, particularly in muddy or weedy areas near the shoreline. The best bait includes fresh fish fillets, chicken, or even worms. Fishing at night produces the best results, especially when using a simple running sinker rig.
Best Fishing – Tides, Weather, and Seasonal Patterns
Understanding when to fish in Lake Macquarie can be the difference between an average day and one filled with nonstop action. The lake’s unique connection to the ocean through Swansea Channel means fish move in response to tides, weather changes, and seasonal shifts.
Tides and How They Affect Fishing
Tide changes dictate fish behavior. An incoming tide brings fresh ocean water and baitfish into the lake, making predators more active. This is when flathead, bream, and whiting move into shallower waters to feed. Fishing the edges of sandbanks or along the drop-offs during this time often produces the best results.
A high tide is perfect for targeting fish around structure. Bream and luderick move closer to rock walls and jetties, while squid become more active near weed beds. Live bait or lightly weighted lures fished near these areas often get a quick response.
An outgoing tide carries baitfish and prawns toward the deeper channels, attracting mulloway, tailor, and flathead. This is the prime time for fishing deep holes and drop-offs, particularly at night when larger fish become more confident feeding.
Slack tide, when the water movement is minimal, is the least productive time. Fish tend to be less active, making this a good moment to move spots or prepare gear.
Weather Patterns and Their Impact on Fishing
Wind direction and strength play a major role in where fish will be holding. A light onshore breeze stirs up the shallows, making flathead and whiting more active. Offshore winds create clearer water conditions, which can make fish more cautious but is ideal for squid fishing.
Cloudy days are often better for fishing than bright, sunny days. Fish tend to be more active in low-light conditions, reducing the need to hide in deeper water. Dawn and dusk are the best times for catching most species, as they are naturally feeding during these windows.
Rain can be a game-changer, particularly after heavy downpours that wash baitfish and prawns into the lake. The days following a storm often see a feeding frenzy, with bream and flathead taking full advantage of the extra food.
Seasonal Fishing Patterns
Each season in Lake Macquarie brings different opportunities.
During summer, whiting, bream, and flathead are most active in the shallows. Prawns run in full force, making this the best time for cast netting. Squid numbers also increase, particularly around jetties and weed beds.
Autumn signals the arrival of tailor and the chance to target bigger flathead as they start moving into deeper waters. The cooling temperatures also bring the first signs of mulloway activity.
Winter may seem quieter, but it’s prime time for chasing large mulloway in deeper sections of the lake. Luderick fishing picks up around the break walls and rock structures, while squid remain active, especially on clear days.
Spring marks the return of aggressive feeding behavior, with bream, whiting, and flathead pushing back into the warmer shallows. It’s also a great time to target mud crabs in the mangrove systems as they become more active.
Best Fishing Spots Around Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is massive, and knowing the best fishing spots can save hours of trial and error. Some areas consistently produce quality fish, while others shine during certain seasons or tidal changes.
Land-Based Fishing Spots
Swansea Channel is one of the most productive spots in the lake. The strong tidal flow attracts bream, flathead, and mulloway, making it an excellent place to fish on an incoming or outgoing tide. Fishing closer to the bridge or near the drop-offs increases the chances of landing a big catch.
Belmont Bay is a go-to location for whiting and luderick. The combination of sand flats and seagrass beds makes it ideal for bait fishing or using small surface lures. The best fishing tends to happen on a rising tide, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wangi Wangi Point is a well-known flathead hotspot. The deeper channels nearby allow fish to move in and out with the tide, providing excellent opportunities for lure fishing. Soft plastics and live poddy mullet work particularly well in this area.
Pelican Foreshore is a great option for family-friendly fishing. It offers easy access, and the shallow waters hold bream, whiting, and the occasional blue swimmer crab. A simple running sinker rig with fresh bait will produce consistent results.
Jetty Fishing Locations
Valentine Jetty provides access to deep water without needing a boat. Bream, flathead, and squid are common catches here, with the best action occurring around dawn and dusk.
Belmont Jetty is another top location, particularly for luderick and bream. Fishing close to the pylons with live bait often leads to success, while squid jigs are effective during the evening.
Toronto Wharf is known for holding tailor and the occasional mulloway. Fishing here at night with live bait can lead to some serious action, especially when the tides are moving.
Private Jetty at Lake Macquarie Holiday Rentals.
Kayak and Boat Fishing Locations
Pulbah Island offers some of the best boat fishing in the lake. The drop-offs around the island attract flathead, bream, and even mulloway, making it a prime location for deeper water fishing.
The deep holes near Marks Point are a popular choice for targeting larger species. Mulloway and tailor often patrol these areas, particularly on a run-out tide.
Wangi Point Reefs provide excellent reef fishing opportunities for luderick, snapper, and squid. Drifting with a well-presented bait or lure increases the chances of landing a quality catch.
NSW Fishing Regulations and Ethical Practices
Fishing in Lake Macquarie comes with a set of rules that ensure the sustainability of fish stocks and protect the ecosystem. Knowing the regulations is essential, not only to avoid fines but also to contribute to the long-term health of the fishery.
A recreational fishing license is required for anyone fishing in the lake, with some exemptions for children under 18, Aboriginal fishers, and pensioners. Licenses can be purchased for short-term use or on an annual basis, with funds supporting fish stocking programs and habitat restoration.
Size and bag limits apply to all major species. Dusky flathead, for example, must be between 36 cm and 70 cm, with a maximum bag limit of five per person. Mulloway must be at least 70 cm long, with a daily limit of one. Taking undersized fish or exceeding bag limits can result in heavy penalties, so carrying a measuring device is always a good idea.
Crab fishing also comes with restrictions. Blue swimmer crabs must have a minimum shell width of 6.5 cm, while mud crabs must be at least 8.5 cm. Females carrying eggs must be released immediately. Crab traps must be marked correctly with a float that has the owner’s name and phone number.
Spearfishing is allowed in certain areas but is strictly prohibited within 100 meters of jetties, boat ramps, and swimming areas. Some parts of the lake, particularly near marine reserves, have additional restrictions, so checking the NSW Fisheries website before heading out is always recommended.
Sustainable fishing practices go beyond just following the law. Catch and release should be practiced whenever fish are not needed for consumption, using wet hands or a rubberized landing net to minimize stress on the fish. Handling fish properly and releasing them quickly increases their survival rate. Using circle hooks instead of traditional J-hooks reduces deep hooking, leading to healthier fish populations.
Discarded fishing lines and plastic bait packaging are major environmental hazards. Bringing all waste back to shore and disposing of it properly helps keep the lake pristine and safe for both marine life and other anglers.
Fishing Gear & Bait Recommendations
Having the right gear makes all the difference when targeting different species in Lake Macquarie. While a basic setup can catch fish, choosing the right rod, reel, and bait increases the chances of success.
A light spin rod in the 2-4 kg range is ideal for bream, whiting, and luderick. For flathead, a slightly heavier rod between 4-8 kg provides the power needed for longer fights. Mulloway require even more backbone, with rods in the 10-15 kg range being the best choice for handling these powerful fish.
Reel size should match the target species. A 2500-3000 size reel is perfect for general estuary fishing, while a 4000-6000 size reel provides the extra drag needed for large predators. Using braided line with a fluorocarbon leader increases sensitivity and abrasion resistance, especially when fishing near rocks and structure.
Bait selection is equally important. Live worms and nippers work best for whiting and bream, while poddy mullet and pilchards are the go-to choice for flathead and mulloway. Prawns, either live or dead, are an all-rounder bait that appeals to almost every species in the lake.
Artificial lures have gained popularity, with soft plastics being one of the most effective options for flathead and bream. Small hardbody lures and surface poppers are ideal for whiting and tailor, while larger vibes and soft swimbaits excel for mulloway. Squid jigs in natural colors work well in the clear waters of Lake Macquarie, particularly around weed beds.
Fishing accessories like a quality landing net, a sharp pair of braid scissors, and a well-organized tackle box make a day on the water more efficient. A portable aerator is useful when keeping live bait fresh, and a waterproof tackle bag ensures everything stays dry when fishing from a kayak or boat.
Successful Fishing On Lake Macquarie
Success in Lake Macquarie isn’t just about having the right gear or knowing where to fish. The small details—like reading the water, tying the right knots, and avoiding common mistakes—make all the difference.
Observing the water can reveal a lot about fish activity. Flathead often lie in ambush near sandy drop-offs, leaving telltale “lies” in the sand where they’ve been sitting. Bream and luderick tend to congregate around submerged structures, while tailor and mulloway follow bait schools, often signaled by surface splashes or diving birds.
Tying strong knots is crucial, especially when targeting larger fish. The uni knot is one of the most versatile and reliable options for tying hooks, while the FG knot is the best choice for connecting braided line to a fluorocarbon leader. Weak knots can cost a good fish, so practicing a few simple but effective knots is always worthwhile.
Choosing the right rig depends on the fishing style. A simple running sinker rig works well for most species, allowing bait to move naturally with the current. When targeting bream or whiting, a paternoster rig with a lightly weighted dropper helps keep bait just above the bottom. Lure anglers benefit from using a loop knot, which gives soft plastics and hardbody lures a more lifelike movement.
Patience and adaptability are key. If a spot isn’t producing after 20-30 minutes, moving to a different location or adjusting the bait can turn things around. Changing retrieval speed, lure color, or fishing depth can trigger a bite when fish seem inactive.
Using a fishing logbook to track successful catches over time can help identify patterns. Recording the tide, moon phase, weather conditions, and bait used makes it easier to plan future trips when conditions align with previous success.
Fishing Events and Competitions in Lake Macquarie
Competitive fishing is popular in Lake Macquarie, drawing anglers of all skill levels to test their abilities in structured tournaments. These events not only offer prizes but also provide a chance to learn from experienced fishers and refine techniques.
The Lake Macquarie Fishing Classic is one of the biggest annual events, attracting anglers targeting species like flathead, bream, and mulloway. The competition features categories for adults and juniors, making it a great event for families.
Smaller club competitions are held throughout the year by local fishing groups. These contests often focus on specific species, such as luderick or squid, and provide a great way to meet other anglers who regularly fish the lake.
Kayak fishing tournaments have also grown in popularity, with events focusing on catch-and-release bream and flathead competitions. These tournaments emphasize skill and strategy, rewarding the best catches based on length rather than weight.
For those new to competitive fishing, many local tackle shops and clubs offer beginner-friendly events where experienced anglers share tips and advice. Participating in these competitions is a great way to improve fishing skills while enjoying the social aspect of the sport.
Lake Macquarie Fishing Guide
Sustainability is key to keeping Lake Macquarie a great fishing spot for future generations. Following NSW fishing regulations, practicing responsible catch and release when necessary, and keeping the environment clean ensures the lake remains healthy and full of life.
From casual fishers casting a line from a jetty to serious anglers targeting their next personal best, Lake Macquarie delivers. The fishing is rewarding, the scenery is spectacular, and with so many different species to target, no two trips are ever the same.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Lake Macquarie?
Yes, a recreational fishing license is required in NSW unless exempt. Short-term and annual licenses are available online or at local tackle shops.
What is the best time of year to fish in Lake Macquarie?
Fishing is great year-round, but summer is best for whiting, flathead, and prawns, while winter is prime time for mulloway and luderick.
Where is the best place to catch squid in Lake Macquarie?
Squid are commonly found near weed beds and jetties, with Swansea Channel, Belmont Jetty, and Pulbah Island being top spots.
Can I fish in Lake Macquarie at night?
Yes, night fishing can be very productive, especially for mulloway, tailor, and squid. Using live bait near deep channels increases the chances of a good catch.
Are there any fishing bans or protected areas in Lake Macquarie?
Some areas have restrictions, especially near marine reserves. Checking the NSW Fisheries website ensures compliance with the latest regulations.