Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW: 6 Hidden Local Gems

Are you looking for the perfect spot to go rock fishing on the Central Coast of New South Wales? If so, then look no further! This blog post will provide an overview of six of the best rock fishing spots in this region. We’ll cover what type of fish you can expect to find at each location, where to park your car and other important information that will help make your visit a success. Plus, we’ll give advice on which equipment and bait is best suited for a successful day out at sea. So grab your gear and let’s get started exploring these amazing rock fishing spots!



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Avoca Rocks 1 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Spot #1

1. Avoca Rocks, Central Coast NSW – Rock Fishing Report

Located on the south of Avoca Beach, Avoca Rocks is one of the most popular rock fishing spots along the Central Coast. The rock platforms provide breathtaking views of the ocean, and on the favourable tide and weather conditions, they offer a perfect spot for rock fishing. Commonly caught species in this area include bream, whiting and tailor.

Parking can be found at the Avovca beach, and there is a bit of a walk down to the rocks. However, it’s worth the effort as this spot is renowned for its amazing fish catches. Here you’ll find an abundance of bream, flathead, bonito, blackish and Australian salmon as well as plenty of other species in season. It’s a great spot for those looking to catch their dinner, with a wide variety of fish being caught all year round.

If you’re planning a visit to Avoca Rocks, make sure you pack the right equipment and bait. Good options include metal lures, soft plastics, mullet strips, prawns and squid for bait. Getting the right equipment is essential for a successful fishing experience, so plan your visit carefully.

Before you attempt to fish from a rock platform, it’s essential that you be aware of the waves and swell conditions as well as any local regulations. Additionally, due to the inherent dangers of rock fishing, please ensure that all safety guidelines are followed for your own protection.

Ensure you wear a life jacket and non-slip wading boots or rock-fishing cleats when fishing. To stay safe, never fish alone and let someone know where you are going before you leave.

Directions to Avoca Rocks: 

For directions to Avoca Beach, simply follow the Google Maps link here.

Type of fishing at Avoca Rocks:

Rock fishing and beach fishing. Bottom fishing with bait or lure fishing.

Best Time To Fish at Avoca Rocks:

Before heading out, make sure you check the swell, wind and tide times in the area. You want to avoid this spot if there is a forecast of large swells or if it’s windy as it can be very dangerous. For the best chance of catching a variety of fish, try fishing at high tide.

Recommended Gear & Safety Essentials

Avoca Rocks - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Fish Species Recently Caught In Avoca Rocks:

  • Bluefish – 12/29/2023 at 11:47 PM
  • Surf bream – 10/27/2023 at 1:39 PM
  • Luderick – 8/14/2023 at 5:30 PM
  • Australian bonito – 2/28/2023 at 6:00 PM
  • White trevally – 1/28/2023 at 12:48 PM
  • Australian salmon – 4/2/2023 at 3:47 PM
  • Yellowtail scad – 3/28/2023 at 1:32 PM
  • Southern yellowtail amberjack – 2/24/2023 at 6:57 AM
  • Blue mackerel – 2/5/2023 at 3:12 PM
  • Eastern wirrah – 9/8/2022 at 12:25 PM
  • Eastern Red Scorpionfish – 9/3/2022 at 2:25 PM
  • Channel catfish – 8/30/2022 at 3:27 PM
  • Eastern kelpfish – 6/14/2022 at 8:35 PM
  • Red grouper – 5/30/2022 at 5:02 PM
  • Girdled scalyfin – 5/30/2022 at 4:27 PM
  • Australasian snapper – 5/27/2022 at 1:33 PM
  • Maori wrasse – 5/27/2022 at 1:12 PM
  • Striped bonito – 3/1/2022 at 8:46 PM
  • Obtuse barracuda – 1/5/2022 at 3:02 PM



Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Spot #2

2. Putty Beach, Central Coast NSW – Rock Fishing Report

Putty Beach, located in Killcare on the Central Coast of New South Wales and part of Bouddi National Park, is a tranquil spot that has remained untouched.

The beach at Killcare stretches for an impressive 1.6 km, and you’ll find the parking at the Killcare Surf Lifesaving Club located on its western end. If you don’t mind a bit of walking, there is also parking at the Putty Beach parking lot, which is located midway between the two rock fishing areas. You have options for rock fishing at either end of the beach, with plenty of rock platforms that can provide excellent spots to cast your line.

You’ll find an abundance of bream, tailor, Australian salmon, flathead and whiting in the area, and you may also find some bigger fish, such as jewfish. If you’re looking for a great spot to do some rock fishing, this is it.

For a successful day of fishing at Putty Beach, make sure you bring the right equipment, bait or lures. Again, please make sure that you are aware of the waves and swell conditions, as well as any local regulations. Equally as important, it is essential that you always wear appropriate life jackets, rock fishing shoes or rock fishing cleats and never rock fish alone.

Putty Beach 3 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Directions to Putty Beach: 

Just an hour and a half away from Sydney, take the M1 Sydney – Newcastle Motorway to easily get off at either Gosford, Woy Woy or Terrigal. For directions, simply follow the Google Maps link here.

Type of fishing at Putty Beach:

Rock fishing and beach fishing.

Best Time To Fish at Putty Beach:

High tide is usually the best time to fish at Putty Beach, as this is when you will find the most abundant fish species. Make sure you check the tide times and swell conditions before embarking on your trip, as you want to avoid this spot if it’s windy or there is a forecast of large swells.

Recommended Gear & Safety Essentials

Putty Beach - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Fish Species Recently Caught In Putty Beach:

  • Dusky flathead – 1/16/2023 at 10:02 AM
  • Largespotted dart – 1/5/2023 at 8:40 PM
  • Yellowtail scad – 10/11/2023 at 11:06 AM
  • Australian salmon – 5/17/2023 at 10:16 AM
  • Smooth hammerhead – 5/2/2023 at 11:34 PM
  • Dusky shark – 4/1/2023 at 9:58 PM
  • Javelin grunter – 4/25/2023 at 8:44 PM
  • Gummy shark – 1/20/2023 at 9:38 PM
  • Striped bonito – 1/20/2023 at 5:23 PM
  • Black flounder – 1/17/2022 at 5:46 PM
  • Bluefish – 1/6/2022 at 12:22 AM
  • Japanese meagre – 12/22/2022 at 9:35 PM
  • Largehead hairtail – 11/27/2022 at 1:12 AM
  • Nurse shark – 8/23/2022 at 7:24 PM
  • Surf bream – 7/28/2022 at 12:56 PM



Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Spot #3

3. Pelican Point, Central Coast NSW – Rock Fishing Report

Pelican Point 2 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

When it comes to rock and beach fishing, the Central Coast offers a vast selection of options. However, few places can offer both in one captivating package – Pelican Point near Norah Head is one of them! From this location, you can cast your line from solid rocks as well as sandy beaches and have an equal chance at reeling in some decent fish such as bream, flathead and tailor. Pelican Point is easily accessible from Sydney by car, just off the M1 highway at Nor

Pelican Point is a beloved beach fishing and rock fishing hot spot for many reasons:

  • Firstly, it’s the first major destination at the end of Tuggerah (North Entrance) Beach – one of the region’s best-known stretches of sand. It has earned its reputation as an excellent fishing destination due to large jewfish being often spotted there!
  • Its unique topography allows for diverse habitats that attract different types of fish species. The partially exposed reef system here serves as an ideal habitat for fish, especially from late Summer to early Winter when baitfish gather and bring in larger predators. Additionally, the rocky structures of this area make it conducive for resident species like drummer and groper.
  • Furthermore, its close proximity to the open ocean ensures plentiful supplies of food sources, which makes it a haven for predatory fish all year round.

Directions to Pelican Point: 

For directions to Putty Beach Parking Lot, simply follow the Google Maps link here.

Type of fishing at Pelican Point:

Rock fishing or beach fishing .

Best Time To Fish at Pelican Point:

High tide or run-in tide is usually the best time to fish at Pelican Point, as the fish migrate in and out of the area with the tide. Always make sure you check the swell and wind conditions before you head out. This is essential to ensure your safety.

Recommended Gear & Safety Essentials

Pelican Point - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Fish Species Recently Caught In Pelican Point:

  • Surf bream – 4/11/2023 at 2:17 PM
  • Australasian snapper – 3/26/2023 at 1:30 PM
  • Shortfin eel – 2/17/2023 at 6:54 PM
  • Black reef leatherjacket – 1/17/2023 at 4:21 PM
  • Australian salmon – 9/16/2023 at 9:06 PM
  • Maori wrasse – 4/17/2023 at 4:02 PM
  • King George whiting – 1/16/2023 at 9:05 AM
  • Bluefish – 5/25/2023 at 12:30 AM
  • Dusky flathead – 1/26/2022 at 4:14 PM
  • Southern yellowtail amberjack – 1/13/2022 at 12:37 AM
  • Black drummer – 6/8/2022 at 9:23 AM
  • Common dolphinfish – 3/3/2022 at 8:35 AM
  • Tope shark – 9/23/2022 at 7:24 PM
  • Luderick – 5/28/2022 at 6:30 AM



Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Spot #4

4. Maitland Bay, Central Coast NSW  – Rock Fishing Report

Maitland Bay - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Experience the beauty of Bouddi National Park and make your way to Maitland Bay, one of its most sought-after secluded beaches. It can only be accessed by a 900m journey through the bush, but it is well worth it! You could take the direct route via the Maitland Bay track or explore other paths leading towards this hidden rock fishing haven.

The trail down to the beach is easy on the feet with its paved slope, stairs and well-maintained path, yet it still has plenty of lush vegetation and gullies along the way to delight you! At a slow pace, allow 20mins to descend and 50mins to ascend on your way back.

Once you’re at the beach, you have rock fishing options at either end of this 600m stretch of beach. If you choose to go towards Bouddi Point, you can expect to catch some decent bream, tailor, Australian salmon, luderick and many other species. Depending on the current, you can fish towards the bay and use the point to shelter yourself from the wind.

As with any rock fishing spot, always be mindful of your safety and check the swell and wind conditions before you cast your line. Remember to always wear a life jacket, rock fishing boots or cleats and never rock fish alone.

Directions to Maitland Bay : 

For directions, simply follow the Google Maps link here.

Type of fishing at Maitland Bay :

Rock fishing, but you also have the option of surf fishing.

Best Time To Fish at Maitland Bay :

High tide is usually the best time to fish at Maitland Bay but be mindful of the swell and wind conditions.

Recommended Gear & Safety Essentials

Maitland Bay 2 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Fish Species Recently Caught In Maitland Bay :

  • Eastern Red Scorpionfish – 1/4/2023 at 2:22 PM
  • Maori rockcod – 1/23/2023 at 6:30 PM
  • Australasian snapper – 1/23/2023 at 11:39 AM
  • Yellowtail scad – 10/11/2023 at 11:06 AM
  • Dusky flathead – 4/28/2023 at 1:19 PM
  • Red morwong – 3/29/2023 at 3:39 PM
  • Grey reef shark – 1/25/2023 at 11:56 AM
  • Crimsonband wrasse – 9/29/2023 at 1:59 PM
  • Black drummer – 6/10/2023 at 10:55 AM
  • Bluefish – 4/19/2023 at 11:22 PM
  • Gummy shark – 1/20/2023 at 9:38 PM
  • Striped bonito – 1/20/2023 at 5:23 PM
  • Nurse shark – 8/23/2022 at 7:24 PM
  • Surf bream – 7/28/2022 at 12:56 PM
  • Southern yellowtail amberjack – 1/24/2022 at 11:14 PM
  • Japanese meagre – 1/9/2022 at 9:11 AM
  • Brassy trevally – 10/5/2022 at 2:02 PM



Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Spot #5

5. Little Beach, Central Coast NSW – Rock Fishing Report

Little Beach 2 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Located in the Bouddi National park, Little Beach is one of the most popular rock fishing spots on the Central Coast. The beach provides plenty of rock fishing areas for those looking to cast their lines and have a successful day of fishing. The surrounding rocky terrain is an ideal spot for land-based anglers, with plenty of deep water accessible from the rocky platforms.

There are two paths to get to Little Beach: a bush track and a fire trail – both eventually meet mid-way. The bush track offers more of a scenic experience through the rainforest and over a little bridge. You can park your car on Grahame Dr (a small cul-de-sac) in Macmasters Beach. The bush trail walk is about 750 metres from Grahame Dr.

Once at the beach, you have fantastic rock fishing options on both ends of the beach. The beach is tucked in between Second Point and Third Point on the map; regardless of which side you choose to fish on, you are sure to have some success as the waters are teeming with fish.

The best type of fish to target at Little Beach is Australian Salmon, as well as big Trevally, Bream, whiting, kingfish and Snapper. Whether you choose to lure fish or bait fish, make sure you have the right equipment for a successful day of rock fishing. The best bait to use would be fresh baitfish and squid, as well as a variety of soft plastic and metal lures.

When it comes to safety, it is important that you stay away from any rough swell or wind conditions. Additionally, it is recommended to fish with a partner as the rocks can be slippery and hazardous, and you should always wear a life jacket.

Little Beach 3 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Directions to Little Beach: 

For directions, simply follow the Google Maps link here.

Type of fishing at Little Beach:

Rock fishing and beach fishing

Best Time To Fish at Little Beach:

The best time to fish at Little Beach is during the summer months when the water temperature is warmer and more inviting.

Recommended Gear & Safety Essentials

Little Beach - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Fish Species Recently Caught In Little Beach:

  • Australian bonito – 1/9/2023 at 8:47 AM
  • Eastern kelpfish – 12/15/2023 at 6:32 PM
  • Australian salmon – 6/5/2023 at 5:40 PM
  • Kawakawa – 4/5/2023 at 9:44 AM
  • Eastern blue groper – 1/23/2023 at 2:30 PM
  • Southern black bream – 11/15/2023 at 9:25 PM
  • Eastern Red Scorpionfish – 9/13/2023 at 3:37 PM
  • Eastern blue groper – 5/17/2023 at 12:29 PM
  • Porae – 4/10/2022 at 4:23 PM
  • Sand flathead – 4/5/2022 at 10:06 AM
  • Pearl perch – 10/19/2022 at 3:31 PM
  • Luderick – 10/19/2022 at 3:25 PM
  • Largehead hairtail – 5/4/2022 at 9:46 AM



Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Spot #6

6. Wybung Head, Central Coast NSW – Rock Fishing Report

Wybung Head 2 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Wybung Head is a popular rock fishing spot on the Central Coast of New South Wales. This scenic location offers stunning views, plenty of wildlife, and a great spot for fishing. Located just 200 metres from the car park, Wybung Heads offers an ideal spot for rock fishing with its breathtaking natural rock platform. While Wybung Heads is a much-beloved spot for rock fishing, yet can be incredibly hazardous under certain conditions.

When rock fishing at Wybung Head, you can expect to catch species such as bream, snapper, salmon, kingfish, and tailor. Anglers should also keep an eye out for the occasional bonito or mackerel! The combination of structure and the availability of bait make Wybung Head an ideal spot for successful fishing trips.

Before heading to Wybung Head, anglers should make sure to bring the right equipment and bait. For rock fishing, it is recommended to bring long spinning rods, reels with a decent braid line with a fluorocarbon leader to absorb shock, a selection of lures or baits, and a gaff for larger catches.

When visiting Wybung Head, it is important to check the weather conditions before going out. Heavy swells and strong winds can make rock fishing at Wybung Head dangerous. Additionally, anglers should wear life jackets and non-slip shoes when visiting this location. It is also highly recommended to fish with a friend for added safety.

Wybung Head - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Directions to Wybung Head: 

For directions, simply follow the Google Maps link here.

Type of fishing at Wybung Head:

Rock fishing

Best Time To Fish at Wybung Head:

The best time to fish at Wybung Head is during the early morning on incoming tide.

Recommended Gear & Safety Essentials

Wybung Head 3 - Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast NSW

Fish Species Recently Caught In Wybung Head:

  • Yellowtail Kingfish – 7/30/2023 at 4:22 PM
  • Blue-spotted flathead – 4/25/2023 at 7:14 AM
  • Southern calamari – 4/10/2023 at 5:30 AM
  • Geelbeck croaker – 4/10/2023 at 4:30 AM
  • Australasian snapper – 11/24/2023 at 6:52 PM
  • Luderick – 11/24/2023 at 12:46 PM
  • Eastern wirrah – 1/26/2023 at 9:08 AM
  • Surf bream – 11/12/2022 at 10:45 AM
  • Japanese meagre – 11/6/2022 at 7:10 AM
  • Australian salmon – 8/1/2022 at 3:20 PM
  • White trevally – 7/22/2022 at 5:00 PM



Best Rock Fishing Spots Central Coast, NSW – Final Thoughts

Conclusion

The Central Coast of New South Wales offers some of the best rock fishing spots in Australia. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, these six locations are sure to provide you with plenty of opportunities for success. Be sure to bring the right equipment and bait, check weather conditions beforehand and fish with friends for added safety. With all this knowledge about each spot, your next day out at one of these amazing rock fishing spots should be filled with plenty of catches! So what are you waiting for? Pack up your gear and head on down to experience the unforgettable beauty that is rock fishing on the Central Coast of New South Wales.


Meet The Author

William O’Reilly is an Australian land-based fishing enthusiast. He discovered his passion for fishing from the shore as a child, when his grandfather would take him out on the water and teach him the ropes.

He encourages others to try land-based fishing and believes it is a unique and sustainable way to connect with nature. He also advocates for responsible fishing practices and conservation. His passion for land-based fishing led him to pursue a career in writing about it, sharing his experiences, knowledge and thoughts about the sport, and inspiring others to appreciate and explore it.

William O’Reilly

Contributing Author



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