Angler Access
NSW boasts an array of fantastic fishing opportunities in rivers, streams and lakes across the State. Many of these spots are easily accessed and are perfect for relaxed family fishing. To help ensure fishing access is maintained for future generations, DPI encourages all fishers to abide by the Angling Access Code of Conduct.
ANGLING ACCESS CODE OF CONDUCT
1. Do not trespass. If unsure about access, always ask for consent before fishing.
2. Always access waterways legally.
3. Do not disturb stock, crops or farm equipment
4. Use “Angler Access” marked paths, gates or fence stiles.
5. Practice courtesy and respect towards others.
6. Report any environmental damage, illegal fishing or pollution.
7. Remove all your rubbish, including fishing lines, packaging and hooks.
8. Comply with all fishing regulations.
9. Carefully return undersized, protected or unwanted fish back to the water.
Go Fishing Guides
Want to go fishing but don’t know where to start? DPI has a range of Go Fishing Guides to help you get going. The Guides provide a snapshot of popular NSW fishing locations in both fresh and saltwater, including fishing tips and what species you can expect to catch. To find out more follow this link.
Map of Public Fishing Spots
DPI has developed an online mapping tool to assist you in choosing locations to enjoy quality fishing. These locations are based on the NSW public land system and are managed by a variety of organisations such as local councils, Local Land Services and other government agencies. Information on this map is put together through spatial analysis, consultation with fishing organisations and field verification by DPI staff and other stakeholders. The sites shown should be seen as a starting point to plan a fishing adventure with family and friends.
Click on individual site markers for access information. For mobile phone or smart devices, please view the map here.
This is your recreational fishing licences fees at work!
Disclaimer: This map may provide assistance or information on where to fish but the NSW DPI and its employees do not guarantee the information or site conditions is without flaw or is wholly appropriate for any particular purpose and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequences which may arise from relying on any information provided.
NSW Crown Land
Crown land in NSW is managed under the Crown Lands Management Act 2016. Crown land is generally managed for the benefit of the people of NSW, with many areas across the State providing public access for a range of activities, including fishing.
Types of Crown land can include Crown Reserves, Tenured Land, Submerged Land, Travelling Stock Reserves, Council Community Land, State Forests, the National Parks Estate and the Western Division. See www.crownland.nsw.gov.au for more information and what you can do on Crown land, including details on parks and other areas which offer great access for fishing.
Fishing NSW Border Rivers & Lakes
NSW fishing access rules and fishing regulations apply to all waters within the State. DPI works with other State agencies to ensure that access to NSW waterways through other States is maintained where possible.
NSW and Victorian Border
In simple terms, fishing in the Murray River, which borders NSW and Victoria, is managed by NSW, meaning you need a NSW fishing licence to fish these waters and that NSW fishing rules apply. Fisheries officers from both NSW and Victoria have powers to enforce these rules. See Fishing rules for Lakes Hume and Mulwala (nsw.gov.au)
Fishing near State/Territory Borders
NSW shares borders with three States and one Territory. Anglers must comply with the relevant State/Territory regulations and be aware that some rivers act as State borders and traverse States. Refer to the map of public fishing spots on this webpage for border details.
More on fishing access
Our fisheries resources are managed under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (the Act) and its associated regulation.
Under common law, the public has a right to fish in the sea, the arms of the sea and in the tidal reaches of all rivers and estuaries.
The public has no common law right to fish in non-tidal waters - the right to fish in those waters belongs to the owner of the soil under those waters. However, the public may fish in non-tidal waters if the soil under those waters is Crown land.
In the case of non-tidal waters in rivers and creeks, Section 38 of the Act (link for more information) provides for opportunities to fish despite the private ownership of the bed of the river or creek. However, you should always take into account other relevant legislation and/or management arrangements that may be relevant to accessing waterways (in addition to Section 38 of the Act).
It is important to note that fishing undertaken in tidal or non-tidal waters is subject to any restriction imposed by this Act.
As tenure of land and waterways is often difficult to ascertain, DPI always encourages anglers to abide by the Angler Access Code of Conduct when seeking access to an area for fishing.
Need more information?
For more information on the Angler Access Program, please email angler.access@dpi.nsw.gov.au.
