Merimbula Lake. Picture John Lugg, NSW GovtBega River. Picture John Lugg, NSW GovtWallagoot Lake. Picture John Lugg, NSW Govt
Merimbula has one of the best fishing wharves in southern New South Wales, with multiple large kingfish caught at times.
There are many inshore reefs, and the Continental Shelf is just 37km offshore.
Coastal reefs have snapper, morwong, kingfish, gummy shark, cod, flathead, leatherjackets, tailor, barracouta and salmon.
Warm currents of summer bring yellowfin tuna, albacore and striped tuna; blue, black and striped marlin, broadbill swordfish and mako and tiger sharks.
Popular spots are the 40 Fathom Reef, about 15km out from Merimbula, and the 70 Fathom Reef, at 28km. Deeper reefs have trumpeter, morwong, leatherjackets, tiger flathead, deep sea perch, and nannygai.
The best estuaries in this region are Nelson Lagoon, Bega River, Wallagoot Lake, Merimbula Lake and Pambula Lake.
Estuary perch and bass are caught.
During flooding, mulloway are at Bega River mouth, and other estuary outlets. There is landbased fishing off a walking track between Turingal Head and Kianinny Bay, with some of the best rock spots on the East Coast.
An artificial reef was built in Merimbula Lake in 2009, and an offshore reef installed in 2018. In recent years striped marlin have been abundant in season, but pink snapper have been harder to find on the reefs.
Kingfish are usually best from October to June.
Tailor are best from March to November.
Mulloway are at the estuary mouths during and after floods.
Merimbula is busy during holiday periods.
The bar crossing requires great care. Educate yourself about bar crossings here).
