Whether you’re an experienced angler chasing a trophy catch or teaching the kiddos to reel in their first whiting, fishing on the Coffs Coast promises something for everyone. Diverse landscapes and the unique mix of ocean currents in the Solitary Islands Marine Park make this marine melting pot a magical place to wet a line.
From rocky headlands and surf beaches to calm estuaries, bustling jetties, and easy-to-access boat ramps, this guide explores the best spots and charters, plus local stories and tips for a fun day out fishing.
Best places to fish in Coffs Harbour for rock, beach and pier fishing
For many locals and visitors, the best place to start fishing is along the stunning rocky headlands, piers or pristine beaches that line the Coffs Coast.
Rock fishing is popular along the Northern Coffs Harbour Breakwater and Corambirra Point at Gallows Beach. When beach fishing at Boambee Beach (accessible by 4WD) or Park Beach, the deeper gutters close to shore promise plenty of action. All spots offer excellent opportunities to catch prized species like tailor, tuna, mulloway, bream, and flathead..
“At first sight, the water fills me with excitement. The lure flies out long and strong, but the garfish are spraying only 15m away from me. I desperately retrieve and recast. A big tuna crashes my lure, and I’m on. After a nervous end fight, the iridescent purple, blue, and yellow tuna slides onto the rocks.” shares local Fisho Kimbo.
ROCK FISHING SAFETY TIP: When rock fishing, safety is paramount: always wear sturdy footwear, check swell and weather conditions, and avoid fishing alone on slippery or exposed rocks. Always wear an appropriate lifejacket that is best for you
Coffs Harbour Jetty is a great spot for pier fishing, offering a variety of species and fishing styles. Fish from the upper or lower jetty deck for bream, trevally, whiting — and sometimes a surprise kingfish or mulloway. The area around the Coffs Harbour Jetty, near Muttonbird Island, including the Coffs Harbour International Marina, also provides good fishing opportunities. Fishing during the early morning or late afternoon often yields the best results, with calmer tides and cooler temperatures bringing fish closer to shore.
Creek and estuary fishing Coffs Harbour – perfect for families and beginners
The sheltered estuaries and creeks of the Coffs Coast provide calm, accessible spots for the whole family to cast a line. Thanks to nearby picnic areas and playgrounds, they are ideal for your next affordable, family-friendly fishing day-trip adventure.
Boambee Creek Estuary, Bonville Creek, and Coffs Creek are great for beginners and kids to catch whiting, jewfish, flathead, and bream with light Gear and a little patience. If you’re lucky, you might even reel in a mangrove jack hiding out amongst fallen trees using live bait or a lure.
“I love casting off under the bridge near the mouth of Coffs Creek. The little channels bring in a variety of fish, making it easy to catch something using a soft lure or bait. It’s a versatile spot — great for flatties and bream, and even blackfish or whiting.” says local Fisho Widya.
LOCAL FISHING TIP: Keep an eye out for the fishing platforms at Boambee Creek Reserve, near what’s locally known as the ‘jewfish hole’. And like most creek and estuary fishing spots, expect more luck around changing tides.
Offshore & reef fishing adventures Coffs Coast
The offshore waters of the Coffs Coast present some of the best opportunities for offshore and deep-sea fishing in New South Wales. Home to the oldest marine park in NSW, Solitary Islands Marine Park is a marine melting pot where tropical and temperate ocean currents meet. Chase pelagic species like tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin or target reef fish such as snapper, pearl perch, and tuskfish.
Anglers are encouraged to consult zoning maps and local guides to fish responsibly in permitted areas, helping to protect the vibrant marine ecosystem while enjoying world-class fishing.
Boater Safety & Local Tips
- Live webcam: NSW Government maintains a live camera at the Coffs Harbour ramp—check conditions before launch
- Tidal caution: Entrance channels can get rough — check the tide and swell before launching
- For deeper-water or offshore trips, ideally, use the Coffs Harbour ramp
- Before heading out, inform the Coastguard of your trip details and estimated return
- Always observe signage and MP zoning. Adhere to environmental rules—especially around rinse bays.
Popular boat ramps around Coffs Harbour
Adventure beyond the shoreline and launch from one of the many boat ramps in Coffs Harbour. For a complete list of boat ramps, including locations, download the ‘Go Fishing‘ Guide, published by the NSW DPI.
Bonville Creek Boat Ramp
Location: Found at Dolmans Point, near Sawtell, within Bongil Bongil National Park
Description: A small ramp ideal for launching kayaks, canoes, or tinnies into the calm, scenic estuary
Surroundings: Surrounded by tranquil waterways and birdlife, with nearby picnic areas and forest walking trails.
Coffs Creek Boat Ramp
Location: Edgar Street, near the Coffs Harbour Wildlife Sanctuary
Description: Small, mainly for non-powered boats, and renovated for improved public access
Ideal for Kayaks, small tinnies, and quiet estuary exploration—great for families and canoeing and fishing trips.
Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp
Location: Jordan Esplanade, southern side of Coffs Harbour
Description: Four-lane concrete ramp, large parking area, toilets, fish-cleaning tables and rinse bays, lighting, and litter bins. Free public access
Safety tip: Check the live webcam before heading out—conditions at the entrance channel and bar can change.
Red Rock Boat Ramp
Location: Red Rock Reserve (approx. 30 min north of Coffs)
Description: Single-lane concrete ramp with plenty of parking for cars and trailers, giving direct access to the Corindi River
Surroundings: Next to a quiet reserve ideal for picnics and estuary fishing.
Coffs Coast fishing charters: expert-guided trips for fishos of all skill levels
For visitors or locals keen to explore offshore fishing safely, fishing charters on the Coffs Coast offer a safe and fun way to experience reef, game, and deep-water fishing while learning from knowledgeable local guides.
With half and full-day trips tailored to all levels of experience, your charter trip can be fully customised to suit anyone. From families and first-time anglers to experienced fishermen, a Coffs Coast fishing charter will supply all gear and expert guidance to help you make the most of your trip.
Coffs Coast Fishing charter operators
Popular with both beginners and serious anglers and with 30+ years of local experience, Coffs Harbour Fishing Charters is your go-to for deep-sea and game-fishing adventures.
For a personalised offshore adventure, KC’s Fishing Charters offers expert-guided trips departing from Coffs Harbour, with all Gear provided and a strong focus on fun, safety, and local knowledge.
Eco-conscious tips for sustainable fishing on the Coffs Coast
Built by Garby Elders, the ancient fish traps at Arrawarra are a lasting symbol of sustainable fishing and cultural connection. Today, that legacy continues under the protection of the Solitary Islands Marine Park and the region’s ECO Destination certification — ensuring the Coffs Coast remains one of the most exciting and sustainable fishing destinations in NSW
‘FishSmart’ when fishing the Solitary Islands Marine Park
Covering a mammoth 71,000 ha and spanning 100 km of coast from Coffs Harbour up to Sandon River in the north, it’s no surprise The Solitary Islands Marine Park (SIMP) has many special rules and zones.
Thankfully, DPIRD’s “FishSmart” app features local weather and tides, bag and size limit information, and includes all NSW marine park maps, so you can feel confident when fishing on the Coffs Coast. There is also a free, printable SIMP guide/map.
Top eco-conscious tips for sustainable fishing on the Coffs Coast
“For me, it’s not just about the catch — it’s about respecting the water for the next generation and making memories with the grandkids. Those quiet moments by the creek and the look on their face when they reel one in — that’s the real reward,” says local angler Tony.
Plan your next Coffs Coast fishing trip: when to go, what to bring, where to shop, and how to score a fishing license in Coffs Harbour
When to go: Fishing is a year-round activity on the Coffs Coast. Spring and autumn are fantastic seasons for most species, including tailor, whiting, and flathead. Summer tends to be the go for offshore pelagic species. Consult tide charts or local apps for the best fishing times.
What to bring: Pack your Gear, sunscreen, water, a hat — and a waterproof dry case for your phone, just in case!
Where to shop: Paul from Alvey Reels in Coffs Central has a beautiful range of quality, Australian-made rods and reels, plus a wealth of local knowledge and passion to inspire your next fishing trip. For your one-stop shop, Motackle & Outdoors on Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour has everything from discount reels and rods to boating equipment and accessories.
Do I need a Fishing Licence in Coffs Harbour?
While there are some exceptions, most people planning on fishing from shore, a boat, or the jetty will need a valid NSW Recreational Fishing Licence to fish across the Coffs Coast. You can purchase one online, via the Service NSW app, or at local tackle shops before you head out.
FISHING LICENCE TIP: Digital licences are accepted — remember to keep it handy on your phone while fishing.
