Here’s your guide to the best boating and fishing experiences in the Shoalhaven.
Image: Josh Brnjac
Fishing in the Shoalhaven: What You’ll Catch
The Shoalhaven is a haven for anglers with both saltwater and freshwater options.
Saltwater Species (beaches, estuaries, offshore):
- Flathead
- Bream
- Whiting
- Snapper
- Tailor
- Kingfish
- Australian Salmon
- Mulloway (Jewfish)
Freshwater Species (rivers, dams):
- Australian Bass
- Estuary Perch
- Carp
From tidal estuaries and sandy beaches to tranquil rivers and dams, the Shoalhaven offers fishing spots for every style. Whether you’re chasing a big offshore catch or a quiet freshwater retreat, there’s always something biting on the NSW South Coast.
Image: Shoalhaven Tourism
Easy Access Boat Ramps Across the Region
Getting on the water is simple thanks to a network of well-maintained boat ramps across the Shoalhaven.
Popular launch spots:
- Shoalhaven Heads Ramp – ideal for river cruising and fishing
- Currarong Boat Ramp – the perfect launch location
- Wollamia Boat Ramp (near Huskisson) – gateway to Jervis Bay’s pristine waters
- Burrill Lake & Lake Conjola Ramps – peaceful waters and easy access
- Ulladulla Harbour Boat Ramp – great for offshore fishing trips
Many ramps are close to Holiday Haven parks, meaning less travel time and more time on the water.
Image: Josh Brnjac
Jetties & Safe Fishing Spots for Kids
Fishing with kids? The Shoalhaven has plenty of family-friendly jetties and wharves where little anglers can cast a line safely.
Top kid-friendly fishing spots:
- Shoalhaven Heads Jetty
- Huskisson Wharf
- Culburra & Lake Conjola foreshore areas
- Ulladulla Harbour Jetty
- Burrill Lake jetty spots
Expect plenty of excitement as kids reel in bream, flathead or tailor, and maybe a story or two about “the one that got away”.
Go Local: Fishing Charters & Guided Experiences
Want to boost your chances of a big catch? The Shoalhaven is home to experienced fishing charter operators like JB Fishing Charters and Ulladulla Fishing Charters.
Local charters offer:
- Half-day and full-day offshore fishing trips
- Reef and deep-sea fishing adventures
- All gear supplied
- Family-friendly and beginner options
For something truly authentic, try Fishing With a Local. Join a knowledgeable guide for a customised land-based adventure – bait gathering, beach worming, and secret spots included.
Image: Josh Brnjac
Lakes, Rivers or Open Ocean — You Choose
One of the Shoalhaven’s biggest drawcards is variety:
- Tallowa Dam (Kangaroo Valley) – famous for bass and rainbow trout
- Shoalhaven & Crookhaven Rivers – scenic, productive fishing grounds
- Jervis Bay & offshore waters – crystal-clear conditions and trophy fish potential
- Swan Lake, Lake Conjola & Burrill Lake – calm waters, ideal for kayaks, tinnies and relaxed fishing
Whether you prefer glassy mornings on the lake or chasing the thrill of offshore fishing, you’ll find your happy place here.
Where to Stay: Close to the Action
Holiday Haven parks put you right where you want to be – close to ramps, jetties and prime fishing spots.
Stay near top boating and fishing locations at:
- Holiday Haven Kangaroo Valley
- Holiday Haven Shoalhaven Heads
- Holiday Haven Culburra Beach
- Holiday Haven Currarong
- Holiday Haven White Sands
- Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach
- Holiday Haven Swan Lake
- Holiday Haven Bendalong
- Holiday Haven Lake Conjola
- Holiday Haven Ulladulla
- Holiday Haven Burrill Lake
- Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie
Fishing Tips & Essentials
- Get Your Licence: A valid NSW recreational fishing licence is required.
- Know Bag & Size Limits: Check legal limits to protect marine life.
- Use Legal Gear: Approved gear types are listed on DPI resources.
- Respect Marine Parks: Jervis Bay Marine Park has specific zones and rules.
Reel in the Good Times
From sunrise launches to sunset casts, boating and fishing in the Shoalhaven is about more than the catch. It’s about time together, fresh air, salty hair and stories that last long after the holiday ends.
So pack the rods, load the boat, or book a charter – your Shoalhaven fishing adventure awaits.
See you by the water.
