Fishing Namoi River
Fishing on the Namoi River is influenced by seasonal changes, particularly rainfall and temperature. Summer months (December-February) see increased fish activity, while the cooler months (June-August) require adjustments in technique and bait. Wind can also play a role, affecting casting distance and boat control. There are no tides on the Namoi River.
The landscape surrounding the Namoi River varies from open farmland to sections with thick vegetation along the banks. This diverse terrain provides different fishing opportunities, from easily accessible open banks to more secluded, challenging spots requiring a bit of a walk. Be mindful of private property and ensure you have permission before accessing the river through farmland.
Access to the Namoi River is generally good, with several public access points and boat ramps available. Smaller boats, kayaks, and canoes are ideal for navigating the river's narrower sections, while larger vessels can be used in the wider pools. Always check local conditions and any access restrictions before launching a boat.
Top 10 Species
Landbased
- Narrabri Creek Junction: Fishing near the junction of Narrabri Creek and the Namoi River can be productive, especially after rainfall. Target Murray Cod and Yellowbelly using lures or bait.
- Wee Waa Bridge: The banks around the Wee Waa bridge offer good access for land-based anglers. Try fishing with worms or shrimp for Yellowbelly and Silver Perch.
- Baan Baa Public Reserve: This reserve provides easy access to the river and is a popular spot for families. Fish for catfish and smaller native species using simple rigs and bait.
- Manilla Weir: Fishing below the Manilla Weir can be productive, with a chance to catch Murray Cod and Yellowbelly. Use caution due to the weir structure and potential currents.
- Gunnedah River Walk: Sections of the Gunnedah River Walk offer accessible fishing spots along the Namoi River. Target carp and other introduced species with bread or corn.
- Boggabri Riverside Park: This park provides a family-friendly fishing environment with easy access to the riverbank. Use worms or small lures to target smaller native fish.
- Riverside areas near Narrabri: Explore the riverbanks near Narrabri for secluded fishing spots. Look for areas with overhanging vegetation or submerged structure.
Offshore
- Near the Junction of Cox's Creek: Boat access allows you to explore the deeper pools near the junction, targeting larger Murray Cod with swimbaits or deep-diving lures.
- Around Rocky Outcrops Upstream of Gunnedah: These areas often hold Yellowbelly and Silver Perch. Use your sounder to locate submerged rocks and fish with jigs or live bait.
- The Deeper Sections Near Wee Waa: Look for deeper sections of the river using a fish finder. These spots can hold larger fish, especially during the warmer months.
- Around Submerged Timber Near Manilla: Navigate carefully and target areas with submerged timber, which provides habitat for Murray Cod. Cast lures close to the structure.
- The Wider Pools Between Boggabri and Narrabri: These wider pools offer ample space for trolling lures or casting for Murray Cod and Yellowbelly.
Local Bait Tips
- Redclaw: Use opera house traps baited with meat scraps or pet food. Place traps in areas with submerged logs or vegetation along the riverbank.
- Shrimp: Set shrimp traps in slower-moving sections of the river, using bread or vegetable scraps as bait. Check traps regularly.
- Worms: Dig for worms along the riverbanks, particularly in areas with moist soil and leaf litter. Focus on areas near the water's edge or under logs.
Bait and Tackle
- BCF Tamworth: Boating, Camping & Fishing Store
425/437 Goonoo Goonoo Rd, Hillvue NSW 2340
(02) 6762 0133 - Shell Narrabri Truck Stop (After Hours): 11553 Newell Hwy, Narrabri NSW 2390
(02) 6799 1200
Emergency & Safety
- Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry: Breakwall, Dolphin Dr, Forster NSW 2428
(02) 5556 1600 - Emergency: Dial 000
