The Best Fishing Spots on The Central Coast

If you’ve got a hankering for a piece of fresh bream, why not cut out the middleman and head down to the water to catch dinner yourself. With cooler weather coming, there’s no better time to get the hook, line and sinker packed up for a spot of fishing in the winter sun.

The Central Coast is home to waterways, lakes and ocean entrances brimming with fish ready to be snapped up and turned into a delicious meal. Whether you’re a beginner fisher, a part time hobbyist or you’re an experienced angler on the hunt for fertile waters, check out our list of the best fishing spots on the Central Coast.

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Central Coast Fishing Spots That Locals Love

The Entrance

Tucked under The Entrance Bridge there’s a rapid flow of water connecting the lake to the ocean making it a generous thoroughfare for all kinds of fish. Set yourself up on the shallow banks with a rod for the day or brave it at night to catch some big ones by net fishing as the tides change. If you’re lucky you’ll snag a blackfish, bream, flathead or whiting. 

West of the bridge you’ll find Pelican Island, a bit of a hidden gem for locals. It’s a peaceful spot with fewer crowds, so you can enjoy the serenity while you wait for that tug on the line. Great for those who like a bit of space with their session.

Tuggerah Lake

The local fishing legends will tell you there’s always a hearty pack of fish flowing wherever there’s a calm tidal range. The good news is, Tuggerah Lake is as still and tranquil as they come, with the serene waters bringing a rainbow of fish including flathead and mullet. With such peaceful surrounds this is the ideal fishing spot for those wanting to kick back and drink it all in with a quiet day on the banks of Tuggerah Lake.

Rip Bridge

If you consider yourself a more seasoned fisherfolk then make your way over to The Rip Bridge for some active angling. Not for the faint hearted, the tides surrounding the bridge really do pack a punch so be prepared to cop the elements. The positive uptick here is that with the strong tides comes a decent array of fish ripe for the catching. After a successful day you could be taking home a bucket full of jewfish, tailor, whiting and bream. 

Lake Munmorah

Head to Lake Munmorah for the stunning outlook where the bush meets water, then stay for the chance to catch some flathead, bream, trevally tailor and even Australian Salmon. Beloved by locals and out-of-towners alike, this picturesque fishing spot is big enough to accommodate everyone with plenty of space to set up for the day around the large circumference of the lake. Once you’re satisfied with your catches be sure to stick around for dusk where the magic of day soaks into the night painting the sky with warm pinks and dusty oranges.

Top Fishing Spots on the Central Coast NSW

Long Jetty

Nothing screams summer quite like getting stuck into a bucket of fresh prawns plucked from the sea. Rather than waiting at the fish and chips shop, try your hand at catching a few crustaceans of your own at Long Jetty. On the western shore of Toowoon Bay the shallow waters make it an ideal spot for raking in a few prawns. Your best bet is to plant yourself on the jetty and cast a net out into the water before swiftly pulling it back towards you. There’s a fair bit of grunt work involved but trust us, the pay off is well worth it – those sweet, juicy prawns will be the best reward.

Terrigal

If you head to Terrigal you’ll hear tales of locals catching huge marlin and Spanish Mackerel. If you’d like to become part of the folklore, make your way to the haven andand cast your line off the cliff edge for the best chance at walking away with a prize catch. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t get the big one there are plenty of impressive kingfish, salmon and tailor to be caught.

Ettalong

Ettalong’s sand flats are a favourite for good reason – shallow, calm, and perfect for chasing whiting, bream, and flathead. The changing tides bring the fish in close, and the easy access makes it a great spot to cast a line without too much fuss. It’s also a top pick for families! Beach fishing is ideal for little ones learning the ropes, and there’s plenty of space to splash around while you wait for a bite.

Winney Bay

If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, Winney Bay is a cracking spot for rock fishing. It’s a bit off the beaten track (access is via a trail near the water tank at Cape Three Points) but the payoff is worth it! You’ll find a peaceful, tucked-away stretch of coast that’s home to a variety of species.

Just a heads up though – rock fishing can be risky, so always check the conditions, wear the right gear, and stay safe out there. It’s one for the more experienced fishos who love a wild, rugged view with their fishing session.

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