NSW Trout Fishing Season Opens

The long weekend marked the start of the NSW trout fishing season with tens of thousands of anglers expected to experience the thrill of this well-loved freshwater sportfishing in New South Wale’s scenic alpine and high-country waterways.

The season remains open to midnight 8 June 2026.

Rivers and streams across NSW are in prime condition for the opening with 2 million Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout and Atlantic Salmon to be stocked into rivers and lakes across the fishery over the coming six months.

NSW boasts some of the best trout fishing locations in the country, stretching from the pristine rivers of the Snowy Mountains and the tree-lined creeks of the Central West to the clear, rocky streams of New England.

The recreational fishing generates thousands of visitors from across the country each year and produces around $3.4 billion in economic activity annually.

It is important that all recreational fishers check they have a current and valid

NSW Recreational Fishing Fee Receipt (unless exempt) and take the opportunity to remind themselves of the fishing rules before wetting a line.

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.

• Topics:
• Fishing