Macleay River
Macleay River
- Boat Ramps
- 10
- Access Points
- 0
- Species
- 5
The Macleay River is one of New South Wales' most productive and diverse fisheries, flowing through the mid-north coast region and offering anglers a remarkable range of experiences — from tidal estuarine fishing near Kempsey to pristine freshwater reaches in the upper catchment. The river supports a healthy mix of native species and provides excellent opportunities for both lure and fly anglers across its various sections. Whether you're working surface poppers through shaded freshwater pools or targeting schooling fish in the tidal reaches, the Macleay consistently delivers quality sport fishing in a stunning natural setting.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at Macleay River and what's needed to catch them.
Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Macleay River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Know where you can legally fish on Macleay River
See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.
New South Wales licenses and regulations
New South Wales Boating Regulations
Official Transport for NSW (NSW Maritime) hub for safety and rules on NSW waterways, including the Boating Handbook, lifejacket and safety-equipment requirements, and navigation and speed rules.
New South Wales Fishing License
Official Service NSW page for the NSW recreational fishing fee/licence. Anyone fishing NSW waters (fresh or salt) must pay the recreational fishing fee and carry the receipt unless exempt. See the page for current fees and exemptions.
New South Wales Fishing Regulations
Official NSW DPIRD Fisheries hub for recreational fishing rules, covering saltwater and freshwater bag and size limits, possession limits, gear rules and closures.
New South Wales Stream Access Laws
Official NSW DPIRD Fisheries Angler Access page - NSW's closest equivalent to a stream-access page. Explains the public right to fish tidal waters, legal stream access via public land, and that crossing private land needs the owner's permission.
Take Macleay River with you
The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.
Use the map without signal
Download the map around Macleay River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Macleay River to find where and when fish are biting for you.
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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to fish Macleay River and check the forecast before you go.
Macleay River At Turners Flat
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