At long last, the Sydney fishing spots you’ve been waiting for. On the following list, you’ll find land-based fishing, shore fishing, pier fishing, and a handful of Sydney’s secret fishing spots. Prepare for some good fishing in Sydney, presuming you actually know what you’re doing!

Located on Cooks River, this blissful hotspot offers ambience, variety, and occasional views of planes as they depart from the airport. Roll up in the early evening, bring a 10-foot rod (or something similar), and cast out from the beach. In these parts, you just never know what will bite your bait.

Drive about 15 minutes outside of Manly to discover this Sydney fishing spot, which is also a heritage-listed dam. Favourited by everyone from curious beginners to seasoned fly-fishers, it’s packed full of Australian bass and other species. It’s also packed full of water sports like kayaking, swimming, and water skiing—keep that in mind before casting out your next line.

Good fishing meets good foraging at Gordon’s Bay and Clovelly Beach. It’s all about finding the right spot, so choose wisely with this Sydney fishing spot. Should you put down the rod and pick up a bucket, make sure it’s during low tide, which is when all the clinging critters are at their most visible. This is one of the best rock fishing spots in Sydney.

This epic jetty in The Shire easily ranks among the best fishing spots in Sydney. Coastline waves and currents send massive quantities of fish in your direction. Keep west of the baths during low tide to increase the odds in your favour.

After the ferry service has called it a night, head to this Sydney fishing spot and cast out from the northern bank. If your line is firm and you know what you’re doing, you might end up reeling in a trophy catch. Snap a pic and throw it back because these waters are known to be polluted. Your Instagram feed awaits.

If you prefer Sydney fishing spots of the gorgeous variety, then veer from Chowder Bay in Port Jackson to discover nearby Clifton Gardens. Here, you’ll find deep waters, picturesque surroundings, local barbecues, a popular public pool, and either a bank or jetty from where you can cast your line. Arrive early to beat the crowd and expect to catch at least a few bites, as there’s a lot of fish in these parts.

The Georges River is popular amongst commercial fishermen and recreational anglers alike. There’s certainly no shortage of places to fish from on the river, though Tom Uglys Bridge manages to stand out from the herd. Park on the northern side and cast your line just a few yards from your car. When all else fails, hit up the local seafood joint for lunch.

There are far worse places to fish than right there in Sydney Harbour. While Beulah Street Wharf is indeed considered one of Sydney’s best fishing spots for squid, you might very well come up empty-handed, given those rapid currents. But you’re literally staring at the Opera House so who cares?

While we’re still in Sydney Harbour, consider this legendary locale, which features public amenities and delivers epic views of Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Again, your mileage may vary when it comes to the actual fishing, but the experience will be second to none.

We promised some of Sydney’s secret fishing spots and this is one of them, especially if you’re game for lobstering. While we can’t give too much away without angering the lobster diving community, we can say that the rocky inlets where the Hawkesbury River meets the sea are a good place to start. This also happens to be one of the best spots for rock fishing in Sydney. So make no mistake, rocky ledges are your friend if you’re seeking the delicious marine crustacean.

Everything flows at this Sydney fishing spot and we mean that quite literally, given its location at the junction between the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers. That’s not to mention the stretches of beautiful grassland behind you or the on-site BBQ facilities. Indeed, this place has it all.

For all the hardcore fishermen out there, we present this semi-secret Sydney fishing spot, which is coveted by both shore divers and spearfishers. Bring your old school pole spear or a mechanical spear gun and get hunting. Boat Harbour Aquatic Reserve recently became private so you’ll have to shell out some extra cash for the privilege of fishing here.

Between the nearby Pacific Ocean and our various rivers and bays, Sydney is home to a seemingly endless variety of choice fish and choice fishing spots alike. That’s not to mention other forms of sea life, including squid and lobster.

Before you hit up that good fishing spot, Sydney officials (and NSW at large) require you to obtain a recreational fishing licence. Thankfully, the process is both relatively effortless and quite affordable. Here’s the fee breakdown:

With an editorial team full of anglers, Man Of Many has had the unique opportunity to directly sample and experience fishing from the best spots in Sydney. It is also based on our own personal experience, in-depth research and customer reviews of fishing in Sydney. As expert journalists who guide people between competing products and services, we have provided our independent opinion in formulating Man of Many’s selections. Our editors have taken into account, location, fish diversity and fishing conditions, while also making a concerted effort to highlight a few spots outside of the CBD. You can review our editorial policy here surrounding how we maintain our independence in our editorial reviews.