Fishing
We catch them big in South Australia
There are 4,800 kilometres (2983 miles) of coastline, lakes and a long, winding river to explore. Dangle a line from a jetty or riverbank, take a boat out or join a charter to game fishing territory. Enjoy the quality and variety of fish in South Australian waters.
South Australia is renowned for giant snapper. For shore based anglers, there’s mulloway on the far west beaches past Ceduna, with metre-long fish a common catch. South Australia boasts bountiful fishing, from rocks, boats and beaches.
City beaches and jetties
Brighton, Glenelg, Henley Beach and Semaphore jetties are less than 30 minutes from Adelaide. Many anglers fish from the jetties for tommy ruff, salmon trout, mulloway, bream and squid.
Second Valley jetty is also a great spot for catching squid. It’s less than 50 minutes from the city centre and with McLaren Vale nearby, you’ll be tempted to stop and try some wine.
Salmon fishing
Head down to Victor Harbor and throw a line off the Causeway or Bluff jetties. There’s bream, garfish, whiting, mullet and flathead. Try beach or rock fishing at Waitpinga Beach. You may snag a salmon or two.
For rough surf and big fish, head to the west coast. Catch Australian Salmon at Locks Well beach near Elliston on the Eyre Peninsula. The Eyre Peninsula is the commercial fishing hub of South Australia and there’s a good reason for it.
Fish the peninsulas
You will find mulloway, salmon trout, snook and King George whiting in the open water. Its bays are home to abalone, razor fish, scallops and southern rock lobsters. To get the most out of the Eyre Peninsula, hire a boat or choose from one of the many fishing charters.
Crabbing is popular in the Yorke Peninsula towns of Port Hughes, Moonta and Wallaroo. There are plenty of blue swimmer crabs between September and April. You will find some of the best jetty fishing in these towns. Expect good hauls of snapper, King George whiting, squid and flathead.
River fishing
If you prefer freshwater fish, head to the Murray River. There’s freshwater crayfish, called “yabbies” and giant Murray cod. Cod is the most sought after species. They grow really big. You will probably need a line as thick as tennis racquet nylon to reel one in. Then once you do, you’ll have to put it back! They’re a protected species.
Fish safely
When fishing in South Australia, be aware of protected species, minimum sizes, bag limits and licences. There are penalties if you break the law. For more information, grab a copy of the South Australian Recreational Fishing Guide from the local tackle shop or phone FISHWATCH on 1800 065 522.
Things to Do
Here are some great ideas for you to try while you’re in the area.
What’s On
There are plenty of events on in South Australia. Here are some ideas you might like.
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