Annual fishing competitions and events in NSW

If you love dropping a line in the water, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the amazing fishing events held across New South Wales each year. From catch and release competitions on our sparkling coastal estuaries to inland challenges chasing native heavyweights like Murray cod, golden perch and Australian bass, there’s something for every angler.

Whether you’re after the thrill of reeling in a feisty flathead, the patience of waiting out a crafty bream, or joining the fun of a carp muster, these events combine friendly competition with a shared passion for the great outdoors.

Top Annual Fishing Events in New South Wales

North Coast & Mid North Coast

Evans Head Fishing Classic (Evans Head)

Held during the winter school holidays (typically early July), this catch‑and‑photograph event welcomes all ages targeting coastal species. Features prize draws, festival fun, and local community vibes—for a fun winter escape.

Putt Bennett Family Fishing Festival (Mylestom)

A late January community favorite run by the North Beach Recreation & Bowling Club. Embraces catch & release, family participation, fishing games and prizes across decades of tradition.

Lake Cathie Fishing Club Events (Lake Cathie)

Local anglers and visitors can fish at a lagoon hotspot with monthly weigh‑ins, raffles, and relaxed club comps—great for social fishing outings.

Bermagui & Offshore Game Fishing

Blue Water Big Game Fishing Classic (Bermagui)

A prestigious late January offshore game fishing tournament targeting pelagics like marlin, tuna and kingfish. Combines tag‑and‑release and capture categories, plus junior and ladies divisions.

Trophy Hunter Snapper Bash (Coffs Harbour)

Mid-year competition focused on snapper fishing, boasting a prize pool of over AUD $100K. This coastal event draws competitive anglers from across the state.

Inland & Freshwater Events

Grabine Lakeside Freshwater Fishing Competition (Lake Wyangala, Bigga)

Held on the last full weekend of August at Reflections Grabine Lakeside Holiday Park. Awards for the longest native fish (Murray cod, golden/silver perch, catfish) and biggest carp bag. Natives are catch-and-release photo entries; carp are retained.

Teams Fishing Australia – Glenbawn Event (Lake Glenbawn)

Early March team-based freshwater bass tournament with catch-and-release format, combined weight scoring, and cash prizes. It’s friendly yet competitive and attracts anglers statewide.

Greg Whitehead Fishing Challenge (Burrinjuck Waters, near Harden)

Hosted annually on the second-last weekend of August, this three-day catch-and-release event at Burrinjuck Dam is held in memory of Greg Whitehead and raises funds for the Mark Hughes Foundation (brain cancer research). Multiple team and individual categories—cod, yellowbelly, redfin, carp—with over $60K in prizes, angler packs, and major raffles (e.g. boat and engine draw).