Ancient red river gums, teeming wetlands and a rich history await you on this fishing trip in the NSW Riverina. Enjoy the famous freshwater fishing and tranquil scenery of the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers, now protected in two of the state's newest national parks. Find out more about fishing safety.
Murray cod, bream, perch, redfin, catfish and many more species thrive in Murray Valley National Park. And in Yanga National Park, also known as Murrumbidgee Valley National Park, you'll find out why Aboriginal people have been fishing along the Murrumbidgee River for millennia.
When you're not fishing, explore the Ramsar-listed wetlands on a canoe or kayak, follow walking and cycling trails and spot some of the region's hundreds of bird species. These national parks also embrace a varied history - from ancient Aboriginal sites to historic buildings once inhabited by 19th century sheep shearers. When you're ready to relax, take your pick of riverside spots for swimming, picnicking and camping.
You'll need to organise a fishing licence before setting out. Please visit the NSW Fisheries website for more information.
Getting there:
- Start your journey from Balranald, which sits on Murrumbidgee River, near the Victorian border.
- Countrylink operates a coach service to Balranald from Cootamundra, which is connected by regular train services to Sydney and Melbourne. Visit NSW TrainLink for timetables, fares and online bookings.
- Balranald is around 9 hours by car from Sydney, 7 hours from Canberra, 6 hours from Adelaide and 5 hours from Melbourne.
- For weather forecasts in the area, please visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.