Fishing In Bathurst - Bathurst Region Tourism

Fishing in the Bathurst Region

The Bathurst region is renowned for its beautiful waterways and excellent freshwater fishing. From QUIET STRETCHES OF RIVER TO PEACEFUL DAMS surrounded by rolling countryside, there are plenty of places to cast a line and enjoy the slower pace of country life.

Home to SPECIES INCLUDING TROUT, MURRAY COD, GOLDEN PERCH AND REDFIN, the region attracts anglers from across New South Wales while offering plenty of accessible spots for families and casual fishers alike.

Dams & impoundments in Bathurst and surrounds

Chifley Dam

25 minutes from Bathurst Chifley dam is the main water supply for the city. It also hosts a public boat ramp open from 9:30am to 6pm. With public barbeque areas, picnic tables and toilets at the main dam entrance. Redfin Perch, Trout and Cod can be caught here.

Lake Oberon

Approximately 40 minutes from Bathurst. Lake Oberon is a well known trout impoundment. Supplying water to the Oberon township, Lake Oberon restricts boat access to non powered watercraft only.

Lake Canobolas

1 hour from Bathurst in neighbouring Orange. Lake Canobolas allows unpowered watercraft, with canoe launching areas provided. Carp, Redfin Perch, Golden Perch, trout and Cod can be found here. Barbeques, picnic and toilets are available.

Lake Wallace

40 minutes from Bathurst Lake Wallace is a popular sailing and caravaning spot in Lithgow.
Rainbow and Brown trout can be caught here, with more success at dusk and dawn. Boat ramp, barbeque areas and toilet facilities are available.

Carcoar Dam

40 minutes from Bathurst on the Mid Western Highway. Redfin Perch, Golden perch, Murray Cod and Trout can be found here. Carcoar Dam has boat ramps, barbeque and picnic areas, toilets, campsites, cold showers and drinking water.

Rivers accessible for fishing in the Bathurst Region

As of June 2023 the Macquarie/Wambuul River and the Lower Turon River are no longer classed as General Trout Steams, and are no longer subject to seasonal closures. Fishing season still applies to the Turon River from the Upper Turon District, and Fish River to the South Of Bathrust.

During the seasonal closures the taking of any fish, by any means between the Tuesday after the June Long Weekend (Queens Birthday) until Midnight on the last Friday before the start of the October Long Weekend (Labour Day). The access points below are only some of the most well known and easiest to access, see Department of Primary Industries Access Map for more information.

Fish River - General Trout Stream

Fish River is accessible at several points, including Hassall Park and Flat Rock Picnic Area where shaded trees and large boulders make perfect place for casting a line.

Macquarie/Wambuul River

The Macquarie/Wambuul river can be accessed along its lengths via many points in the Bathurst region, including along the Bridle Track and throughout the Bathurst CBD.

Turon River - Partial Trout Steam

The Turon river stretches from Hill end to Capertee with plenty of opportunities for fishing including Sofala and Turon river national park.

NSW Fishing License

In the state of NSW all recreational fishing requires a fishing license.
Fishing without a license can result in a $200 on the spot fine. Learn more at the Department of Primary Industries.