Nelson Bay, located in Port Stephens, New South Wales, is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. With its diverse marine ecosystem, clear waters, and a mix of estuary, offshore, and deep-sea fishing opportunities, this coastal gem attracts anglers year-round. But knowing what’s biting and when can make all the difference between a good fishing day and a great one!
In this guide, we’ll break down seasonal fishing in Nelson Bay, covering the best times to target bream, flathead, kingfish, snapper, marlin, and more! Whether you’re a casual angler or a seasoned pro, this will help you plan your next fishing adventure in Nelson Bay.
Fishing in Nelson Bay by Season
1.Spring (September – November) | Warmer Waters, Active Fish
Spring is when the waters start warming up, and fish become more active. This is an excellent time for estuary and beach fishing, as well as light offshore trips.
What’s Biting?
- Flathead – Found in shallow waters near Shoal Bay and Little Beach. Best caught using soft plastics or live bait.
- Bream – Active near breakwalls, rocky outcrops, and estuaries. Try prawns or small lures.
- Tailor – Shoal Bay and Fingal Bay are great for catching tailor in the mornings and evenings.
- Snapper – As the water temperature rises, snapper move into shallower reefs. Head offshore near Broughton Island for the best action.
- Squid – Common near Fly Point and the marina. Best caught using jigs in the early morning or at dusk.
Best Fishing Methods in Spring:
- Light tackle for bream and flathead in estuaries
- Offshore bottom fishing for snapper
- Casting lures for tailor off the beaches
2.Summer (December – February) | Peak Fishing Season
Summer is prime time for fishing in Nelson Bay, with warm waters and an abundance of fish species. Expect bigger catches, especially offshore, and great fishing conditions across the bay.
What’s Biting?
- Kingfish – Found around the islands and headlands. These powerful fish put up a fight and love live baits or deep-diving lures.
- Whiting – Best caught in the shallows of Shoal Bay and Fingal Bay using worms or prawns.
- Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) – A popular offshore species, often found near floating debris or FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices).
- Marlin (Black & Striped) – The ultimate game fishing challenge! Head offshore with heavy tackle for the best chance at landing one.
- Flathead & Bream – Still highly active, especially in estuaries.
Best Fishing Methods in Summer:
- Offshore trolling for marlin and mahi-mahi
- Surface fishing for kingfish around rocky headlands
- Beach fishing for whiting and bream
Pro Tip: The warmer months also bring holiday crowds, so head out early in the morning or late afternoon for the best fishing experience.
3.Autumn (March – May) | Changing Conditions, Great Variety
As the summer heat fades, the fishing remains excellent, with a mix of both warm and cool-water species still active. This is one of the best times to target a wide range of fish.
What’s Biting?
- Snapper – Offshore reefs are still producing quality snapper, especially at sunrise and sunset.
- Jewfish (Mulloway) – Best caught around the breakwalls, beaches, and deeper estuaries during the evenings.
- Salmon & Tailor – Schools of Australian salmon and tailor move along the coast, providing exciting beach fishing.
- Kingfish – Still active but more commonly found around deeper reefs.
- Squid – A great season for squid, which can be found in large numbers near jetties and rocky shores.
Best Fishing Methods in Autumn:
- Beach fishing for salmon and tailor using metal lures
- Live baiting for jewfish at night
- Offshore reef fishing for snapper and kingfish
Pro Tip: As the temperatures cool, fish tend to move deeper, so adjust your bait depth accordingly.
4.Winter (June – August) | Cold Water, Big Fish
Winter fishing in Nelson Bay is all about quality over quantity. The colder waters bring in some of the biggest snapper and jewfish of the year, making it a great time for those looking for a challenge.
What’s Biting?
- Snapper – Some of the largest snapper are caught in winter, especially near reefs off Fingal Bay and Broughton Island.
- Jewfish (Mulloway) – The cooler months bring in trophy-sized mulloway, especially near river mouths and deep estuaries.
- Australian Salmon – Large schools migrate along the coast, providing non-stop action for surf fishers.
- Drummer & Luderick – Found along rocky ledges and breakwalls. These fish love green weed or peeled prawns.
Best Fishing Methods in Winter:
- Deep-sea fishing for snapper using bait like pilchards or squid
- Night fishing for mulloway with live bait
- Rock fishing for drummer and luderick
Pro Tip: Winter fishing often requires patience and persistence, but the rewards are worth it! Dress warm and fish deeper waters for the best results.
Essential Fishing Gear for Nelson Bay
Regardless of the season, having the right gear is key to a successful fishing trip.
- Light Tackle (2-4kg rod & reel) – Ideal for bream, whiting, and flathead.
- Medium Tackle (5-10kg rod & reel) – Perfect for snapper, tailor, and salmon.
- Heavy Tackle (15kg+ rod & reel) – A must for kingfish, marlin, and deep-sea fishing.
- Bait & Lures – Live prawns, pilchards, squid, and soft plastics work well for a variety of species.
Need a fishing license?
A NSW Recreational Fishing License is required for most types of fishing. These can be purchased online or at local bait and tackle shops.
Plan Your Fishing Trip & Stay in Nelson Bay
No matter when you visit, Nelson Bay offers world-class fishing year-round. Whether you prefer calm estuary waters, deep-sea game fishing, or surf fishing off the beach, this coastal haven has it all.
For a stress-free fishing trip, book a comfortable and convenient stay in Nelson Bay. Our Nelson Bay accommodation options provide the perfect base—close to top fishing spots, boat ramps, and local bait shops.
Pack your fishing gear, book your stay, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Nelson Bay!y for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Nelson Bay!
