Rivers and streams across NSW are in prime condition for the opening of the State’s annual trout fishing season this long weekend (Saturday 5 October) with some 3.3 million trout and salmon stocked into NSW waterways over the past 18 months.
NSW boasts some of the best trout fishing locations in the country, including streams in the New England, the iconic Thredbo and Eucumbene rivers in the Snowy Mountains, and the Fish River near Bathurst in the Central West.
Assisted by volunteers, staff at the Government’s Dutton and Gaden hatcheries have stocked almost 3.3 million Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Atlantic Salmon and Tiger Trout into creeks, rivers and dams across the NSW trout fishery over the past season.
Following four-month spawning closure, keen fishers and their families will now be able to enjoy what is tipped to be a bumper trout fishing season.
It is important that all recreational fishers check they have a current and valid NSW Recreational Fishing Licence (unless exempt), before wetting a line.
Recreational fishers should also take the opportunity to remind themselves of the fishing rules, to ensure our trout fishery remains viable now and well into the future.
The 2024-25 trout season is open through to midnight 9 June 2025.
A summary of fishing rules and regulations is available via the FishSmart App or by accessing the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide available at NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) offices, fishing fee agents or online.
The public is encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or via the online report form at https://fal.cn/3gJWh
NSW Fisheries Officers will be out patrolling trout streams, rivers and impoundments during the open season, so it’s important for fishers to do the right thing and report any suspected illegal fishing activity.
Further information on the NSW DPIRD fish stocking program, please visit our website https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
“The Minns Government is committed to building a recreational fishing sector that supports regional communities through quality recreational fishing opportunities.
“Keen trout fishers can expect yet another bumper season, with consistent rainfall over the past few years combining with our world-class stocking program to deliver great fishing for these highly popular freshwater sportfish.
“The NSW trout fishery is carefully managed to ensure sustainability while delivering socio-economic benefits to regional communities across the State.”