Wallarah National Park
Wallarah National Park, perfect for fishing, cycling, hiking, surfing and picnicking, is less than an hour’s drive from Newcastle and Gosford, yet completely remote.
- Fees
Free park entry
- Things to do
- 3
- Where
- North Coast
Itinerary
Itinerary: NSW North Coast fishing
Overview
You'll find plenty of places to angle - as well as go swimming, walking, camping, picnicking and paddling - on this spectacular fishing trip along the NSW North Coast. Learn more about staying safe whilst fishing.
Read more about Itinerary: NSW North Coast fishing
Visit Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area and cast your line from a kayak on Lake Macquarie, the largest salt lake in the Southern Hemisphere. After taking in the blissful lake lifestyle, make your way a bit further north and fish from the lovely beaches and bays around Port Stephens stopping in at Tomaree National Park along the way. Keep an eye out for whiting, bream and flathead in the pristine beaches and estuaries, fish off the rocky headlands for prized snapper and kingfish, or head out in a boat to catch marlin and tuna.
When you're not angling for fish, plenty of other adventures await you in this picturesque region. Embark on a scenic coastal walk, bring your binoculars along for a spot of whale watching and enjoy a swim or surf at one of the many stunning beaches. There's something for everyone on this fishing trip, including scenic campgrounds and places to picnic where you can barbecue your catch of the day.
This journey starts in Sydney and follows the first section of The Pacific Coast Drive along Pacific Highway. Check out the Visit NSW website for more information.
You'll need to organise a fishing licence before setting out. Please visit the NSW Fisheries website for more information.
For weather forecasts in the area, please visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.
Day 1: On the shores of Lake Macquarie
Head north from Sydney along the Central Coast. Stop to fish from the rocks in Wallarah National Park before driving round to Morisset picnic area to cast your line in Lake Macquarie, the Southern Hemisphere's largest permanent salt lake. You'll find great fishing spots near Morisset, where you can bushwalk and picnic with the local wildlife. Barbecue your catch and enjoy a comfortable night's accommodation in Baileys Cottage, which sits on the doorstep of Newcastle, surrounded by beaches and littoral rainforest.
Morisset picnic area
Morisset picnic area is located in Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area. This area is closed until further notice for safety reasons.
- Price
- Free park entry.
- Where
- Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area in Sydney and surrounds, North Coast
Baileys Cottage
Baileys Cottage in Glenrock State Conservation Area offers holiday accommodation near Newcastle. There’s a load to do, including mountain biking, fishing and walking.
- Price
- High-end. Free park entry.
- Bedrooms
- 3
- Sleeps
- 6
- Where
- Glenrock State Conservation Area in North Coast
Day 2: Beach fishing in Tomaree
Head to Port Stephens for some meditative fishing in Worimi National Park, or from the pretty bays in Tomaree National Park. Be sure to visit secluded Fishermans Bay foreshore to explore the rockpools, indulge in a spot of beach fishing or go for a dip if the weather's warm. Once you've had your fill of exploring, make your way to Little Mountain campground in Karuah National Park and cast your line into the river to unwind at the end the day. Set up your tent, lie back, relax and listen to the chorus of birds in the trees above as you settle in for the night.
Worimi National Park
Worimi National Park is a special Aboriginal place near Newcastle. Enjoy whale watching, fishing and beach driving on the Worimi Conservation Lands.
- Fees
Beach Vehicle Permit required. Annual passes are not valid for this park.
- Things to do
- 8
- Where
- North Coast
Tomaree National Park
Tomaree National Park near Port Stephens is on Worimi Country. It's a great place for a weekend getaway. With so many coastal lookouts it's easy to go whale watching, hike the tracks, or explore the historical significance of Fort Tomaree.
- Fees
Free park entry
- Things to do
- 30
- Places to stay
- 1
- Where
- North Coast
Fishermans Bay foreshore
Fishermans Bay foreshore close to Anna Bay in the Port Stephens area. It's a good spot for family picnics, rockpool walks, paddling, kayaking, or whale watching.
- Price
- Free park entry.
- Where
- Tomaree National Park in North Coast
Little Mountain campground
Little Mountain campground is a quiet riverside camping area in Karuah National Park. Enjoy 4WD touring, mountain biking, fishing, paddling and birdwatching from your campsite near Karuah.
- Price
- Free park entry.
- Suitable for
- Tent, Camper trailer site, Camping beside my vehicle
- Where
- Karuah National Park, Karuah Nature Reserve in North Coast
- Length
- 2 days