Fishing Lake Keepit
Fishing at Lake Keepit is influenced by seasonal changes, water levels, and weather patterns. The warmer months (spring and summer) generally see increased fish activity, while the cooler months (autumn and winter) require adjustments in tactics. Wind direction and strength can affect boat handling and fish distribution. Rainfall and subsequent inflows impact water clarity and fish behavior.
The landscape surrounding Lake Keepit is characterized by undulating hills and farmland, providing a picturesque backdrop for fishing excursions. The shoreline varies from rocky outcrops to submerged timber, offering diverse habitat for fish. Terrestrial runoff after rainfall can affect water quality and clarity, influencing fish feeding patterns.
Lake Keepit offers good boat access with several boat ramps located around the lake. Boating is a popular way to explore the lake and access prime fishing spots. Shore-based fishing is also available from various points along the shoreline, catering to anglers without boats. Always check for any access restrictions or permit requirements before launching.
Top 10 Species
Landbased
- Keepit Dam Wall: Fishing off the dam wall can be productive, especially when the water is flowing. Target species like Murray Cod and Yellowbelly using lures or bait.
- Holiday Park Foreshore: The area around the Lake Keepit Holiday Park provides accessible fishing spots for families. Bream and Silver Perch are commonly caught here.
- Rocky Point: This point offers good access to deeper water and rocky structure, attracting a variety of fish species. Try using lures or bait around the rocks.
- Cemetery Point: A quiet spot with good access to the main basin. Target Yellowbelly with worms or shrimp.
- The Pines Camping Area: Fish from the shoreline near the camping area, focusing on areas with submerged timber. Murray Cod and Yellowbelly are often found in these locations.
- Near Lake Keepit Sailing Club: Another popular location with generally calm water, which makes it an ideal fishing spot. Fish caught here include Murray Cod, Silver Perch and Yellowbelly.
- Namoi River inlet: Where the Namoi River flows into Lake Keepit is an ideal location to target fish travelling in and out of the main dam.
Offshore
- The Basin: The main basin of Lake Keepit is a large area with varying depths, holding a diverse range of fish species. Use your sounder to locate submerged structure and schools of fish.
- Submerged Timber near the Old River Channel: The original river channel before the dam was built now holds timber, which is fish habitat. Use lures to avoid snags or live bait.
- Around the Islands: The lake has some notable islands that drop off into deeper water and give great structure. Troll or cast around the edges for best results.
- Near the old Keepit Village site: Before the lake was filled, this area was a fully functional village. The reminants provide great structure and a haven for fish.
- Upstream of the Namoi River Inlet: Before the river enters the main basin, the water is shallower and the currents are slower. Target fish moving in and out of the river.
- Near the junction of the Peel River and Namoi River: Another great location for fish traveling into and out of the main dam.
- Anywhere near a weedbed: Most of the lake's weedbeds are submerged, but are still great havens for many species.
Local Bait Tips
- Redclaw: Set opera house traps baited with meat scraps or pet food near rocky areas or submerged timber.
- Shrimp: Use shrimp traps baited with bread or fish pellets in shallow, weedy areas.
- Worms: Dig for worms along the banks of the Namoi River or around the lake's edge after rainfall.
Bait and Tackle
- BCF Tamworth: Boating, Camping & Fishing Store
425/437 Goonoo Goonoo Rd, Hillvue NSW 2340
(02) 6762 0133 - Lake Keepit Sport and Recreation Centre: Fitness Camp Road, Keepit NSW 2380
(02) 6769 7603 - Shell Gunnedah (After Hours): 1 Kamilaroi Hwy, Gunnedah NSW 2380
(02) 9191 9811
Emergency & Safety
- Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry: Breakwall, Dolphin Dr, Forster NSW 2428
(02) 5556 1600 - Emergency: Dial 000
