Fishing Lake Mac with Kids Guide
There’s nothing better than seeing kids try something new, and fishing is one of those activities that just clicks. Fishing in Lake Macquarie is a fantastic, low-pressure way to get outdoors, slow things down, and create some pretty special memories together.
The best part? You don’t need a boat. In fact, starting from the shore or a jetty is often easier (and way less stressful) when kids are involved. With so many accessible spots around the lake, it’s the perfect place to begin your fishing adventures.
🐟 What You Might Catch
Lake Macquarie is the largest coastal saltwater lake in Australia, and because it connects to the ocean, it’s home to a huge variety of fish. You might hook into bream, flathead, whiting, or tailor, and honestly, half the fun is not knowing what’s on the end of your line.
For kids, that surprise factor is everything. Even a tiny catch can feel like a big win.
🎒 Basic Fishing Gear for Kids
Getting started doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. A simple setup is more than enough for beginners.
- Kids’ rod and reel combos are easy to find at places like Kmart, Big W, or tackle stores
- Stick to small hooks and light sinkers (or none at all)
- A basic tackle box with hooks, sinkers, and swivels is handy
- Bait can be as simple as bread or prawns from a local servo
- Bring a bucket, pliers, and a net (optimism is key!)
- A towel or rag helps with handling fish safely
- If you plan to keep fish, you’ll need a knife and a scaler
Adults fishing themselves will also need a valid NSW fishing licence.
Fishing techniques
Fishing trips with kids don’t need to be long. A quick outing is often best before boredom kicks in. Expect to spend most of your time helping, baiting hooks, untangling lines, and cheering them on. The payoff? That moment when they reel something in is unbeatable.
Checking tides and weather beforehand can make a big difference. Calm conditions and a rising or falling tide are usually good starting points. A little planning goes a long way in making the day more enjoyable.
While different fish appear at different times of year, don’t stress about targeting specific species early on. Focus on the experience. Every catch is exciting when you’re just starting.
Safety is key, especially with kids learning to cast. Make sure there’s plenty of space around them and encourage wearing sunglasses for eye protection. Always check the surroundings before casting and call it out, “casting!”, so everyone knows.
Start with something easy, like a clinch knot. It’s quick to learn and does the job well. Teaching kids how to tie knots can help them feel more involved and capable.
Sinkers help your bait reach the right depth, especially in wind, current, or when targeting fish that sit near the bottom. You don’t need anything heavy, just enough to keep your bait where the fish are.
Casting takes a bit of practice, but kids usually pick it up quickly. Learning how the reel works and how to control the line tension will help them recognise when they’ve got a bite.
Always handle fish gently and with care. Use pliers or a hook remover to safely remove hooks and avoid injury for both you and the fish.
If you’re keeping fish, store them on ice in an esky if possible. A bucket with a bit of water and a wet towel over the top will work short-term. Clean and refrigerate your catch as soon as you can.
Fishing from the Shore
Fishing from the shore is one of the easiest and most family-friendly ways to get started. With no need for a boat, you can simply pick a spot, cast a line, and let the kids explore at their own pace. Lake Macquarie has plenty of accessible foreshores, jetties and grassy areas, making it ideal for a relaxed day out where fishing, playtime and picnics can all happen in one place.
A spacious, family-friendly spot with a jetty and plenty of room to spread out. It’s perfect for a relaxed fishing session, and there’s a great playground nearby if the kids need a break.
Naru Beach is ideal for targeting whiting and bream, with calm, shallow water for kids to splash around in. Just nearby, Pelican Foreshore offers loads of space along the Swansea Channel, great for casting a line and setting up a picnic.
You’ve got options here: either stay close to the car park on the flat grassy area, or take a scenic walk to the jetty. Both spots are excellent for fishing, with peaceful surroundings and good chances of a bite.
A top all-rounder. With a floating pontoon, easy water access, playground and BBQ facilities, it’s an ideal spot for families looking to mix fishing with a full day out.
Wide open foreshore, calm waters, and space for the kids to run around. Add in a playground and picnic area, and you’ve got a great setup for a laid-back fishing trip.
🪵 Favourite Jetties Around the Lake
Jetties are fantastic for beginners. Fish love structure, which means a better chance of a catch.
- Valentine Jetty
- Belmont Jetty
- Wangi Jetty
- Speers Point Jetty
- Warners Bay Jetty
- Green Point Jetty
📜 Recreational Fishing Rules in NSW
Kids under 18 don’t need a licence, and adults assisting them are covered too. However, if you’re fishing yourself and over 18, you’ll need to purchase a NSW recreational fishing licence.
Size & Bag Limits – There are rules around how many fish you can keep and how big they need to be. These help protect fish populations and keep the lake healthy for future generations.
Fish need to reach a certain size before being kept so they’ve had a chance to breed, and bag limits ensure everyone gets a fair share.
Some useful links to read more on this include: