10 Best Fishing Spots in Adelaide [With Fishing Tips]

Fishing Licenses in Adelaide 

PIRSA is South Australia's federal fisheries resource management agency on behalf of the government and community, managing the fishing activities of approximately 277,000 recreational anglers.

Fishing in South Australia is free and license-free. However, some bodies of water require a permit to fish. Recreational anglers must also be aware of marine park reserves, where fishing is prohibited. (These areas comprise about 6% of South Australia's waters.)

Recreational Fishing

Many popular fish species in South Australia have size, catch, and vessel limits. In addition to that, there are many areas that recreational anglers should be careful of, such as no-fish areas, no-fish areas, and no-fish areas.

Recreational anglers must also comply with all rules and restrictions regarding South Australian waters. (Please visit the official website for specific information.)

Reservoir Fishing

Recreational fishing is currently available in several SA Water's reservoirs. However, a reservoir fishing license is required to fish in all reservoirs in South Australia. Please apply for a reservoir fishing license at the SA Water website.

(Data Source: SA Water)

Adelaide Fishing Gear: What To Pack? 

The first and most crucial step in preparing to go fishing is packing all the necessary gear. The right fishing gear is essential to get the most out of your trip to South Australia. Below is a list of equipment needed for fishing activities.

As a professional fisherman, you have the perfect fishing equipment. Even if you are a beginner and have never prepared anything, don't worry; you can buy or rent fishing gear and equipment in advance. Below are some fishing gear that you should prepare in advance. This is the ultimate gear list for fishing in Adelaide.

The nearest supply store may be far from you, making it challenging to purchase essential supplies. You should also take into account the influence of weather conditions. For example, cool mornings and evenings can be chilly, and the sun's intense UV rays can put you at risk for rashes, itching, redness, and skin cancer.

Besides, a portable power station is the most secure way to get power while fishing outside. These generators will keep your essential tools charged no matter where your fishing takes you.  

Look at the Jackery Portable Power Station, which is excellent for fishing, to see how reliable portable solar power sources can be. The options are less intense, quiet, and clean than this one. A portable power source like the Jackery Explorer 600 Plus or 500 is essential for modern fishermen who care about the environment.

10 Best Fishing Spots in Adelaide 

Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice who's never fished, South Australia's best fishing spots offer something for everyone. Adelaide, in particular, has many excellent fishing spots. Here's a list of ten of Adelaide's fishing spots. 

1. Semaphore Jetty

Location: Esplanade, Semaphore, SA 5019 (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: +61 8 8394 2000.

Website: Semaphore Jetty 

When to Fish: October to March

Fish Species: Herring, gar, yellowfin mullet, mullet, squid (southern squid), shark, blue crab

Semaphore Jetty is one of the most popular jetties in summer for local and tourist anglers, over 585m long and located 14km from the CBD. The main fish here are swordfish, snapper, mullet and gar. Semaphore Jetty is also an excellent place to catch squid and crabs from early spring to February. Semaphore Pier also challenges adventurous anglers as whale sharks pass through between October and March.

2. Grange Jetty

Location: 495 Esplanade, Grange, SA 5022 (Open with Google Maps)

Website: Grange Jetty

When to Fish: Late night & early morning

Fish Species: Herring, rays, yellowfin mullet, mullet, blue crab, sand crab

Grange Jetty is also a fishing enthusiast's paradise as the variety of catches makes catching easy for novice anglers. Fishing from Grange Jetty is similar to Semaphore Jetty but sometimes less crowded. Late evening or early morning is the best time to go to Grange Jetty for rays and herring. The most common fish you can catch here are rays, mullet, herring, yellowfin cod and delicious crustaceans like sand crabs and blues.

3. Henley Beach Jetty

Location: Seaview Rd, Henley Beach, SA 5022 (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: 08 8408 1111

Website: Henley Beach Jetty

When to Fish: Summer nights, October to April

Fish Species: Herring, rays, yellowfin mullet, mullet, shark, blue crab

Whether looking for sharks or enjoying the beautiful scenery, Henley Beach Jetty is your destination. It extends to the Gulf of St. Vincent and is well situated for catching stingrays, mullet and blue crab on live bait in deep water. Henley Beach Jetty is arguably the most beautiful jetty in Adelaide and one of the best places to catch bronze whale sharks. Henley Beach Jetty is home to various fish species, allowing anglers of all abilities to enjoy a great day.

4. Glenelg Jetty

Location: 2 Colley Terrace, Glenelg, SA 5045 (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: +61 8 8229 9999

Website: Glenelg Jetty

When to Fish: Summer mornings, dawn or dusk

Fish Species: Herring, rays, mullet, squid (southern squid), blue crab, snapper

Unlike the sandy jetties scattered around Adelaide, Glenelg Jetty is in the middle of the bay. Fishing areas with a mixture of sand, aquatic plants and rocks are suitable for catching various fish. Squid and snapper are the easiest fish to see here and can be caught all year round.

Glenelg Jetty is a great night fishing spot in Adelaide, so going there after dark is the best time to catch species like gar and herring. At Glenelg Jetty, marine animals like seals and dolphins can be seen.

5. Brighton Jetty

Location: 134B Esplanade, Brighton, SA 5048 (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: +61 8 8229 9999

Website: Brighton Jetty

When to Fish: Early morning or sundown

Fish Species: Herring, gar, yellowfin mullet, King George mullet, squid (southern squid), blue crab, snapper, snapper

Brighton Jetty is a great place to fish in the early and late afternoon. It is also a popular spot for anglers all year round, so you'll surely catch something no matter the season. Because squid, snapper and kingfish call Brighton Jetty all year round. Brighton Jetty is a popular fishing spot, even in winter. Locals love going to Brighton Pier after a winter storm because there are schools where King George Cod is fed at the end.

6. Port Noarlunga Jetty

Location: Port Noarlunga, SA 5167 (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: +61 8 8384 0666

Website: Port Noarlunga Jetty

When to Fish: Any time of year

Fish Species: Herring, King George cod, mullet, squid (southern squid), snapper, Australian salmon

Port Noarlunga Jetty is second to none in terms of stunning coastal views and marine life. Port Noarlunga Jetty is famous for its crystal clear waters, spectacular coral reefs and abundant marine life 39 minutes from Adelaide CBD. The port of Porto Noarunga has many fish to catch, such as herring, bream, King George cod, snapper, mullet, salmon and even southern squid. Even if you go in winter, you can still get a good harvest, as many Australian salmon prefer to swim in colder waters.        

7. West Lakes

Location: West Lakes, SA 5021 (Open with Google Maps)

Website: West Lakes

When to Fish: Early morning, dusk, right before a cold front, during a warm front

Fish Species: Black snapper, salmon trout, Australian salmon, perch, mullet, mullet, gar, squid, King George cod

West Lake is a saltwater fishing area known for its estuary, tranquillity and habitat for various fish species. As for fishing, snapper can be caught on the west coast in the spring, summer and fall. Rare salmon trout are caught during low tide in winter.

Summer is the best time to catch rare kingfish and rays. For those looking for a challenge, head east in winter, where the intertidal zone meets the picnic area, where you can catch some sand cod, King George whiting or yellowfin whiting.  

8. River Torrens

Location: Torrens River, Australia, SA (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: +61 8 8211 8666

Website: River Torrens

When to Fish: Early morning, evening, autumn

Fish Species: European carp, tandanus catfish, brown trout, rainbow trout, redfin bass

The River Torrens is Adelaide's best freshwater fishing spot and the best place to catch European Carp. Although European carp are considered pests in Australia, they are relatively easy to see; besides European carp, brown trout, redfin bass, rainbow trout, and pandanus catfish. You will also have the opportunity to meet rare species of the country, such as the lamprey and the short eel. (However, you must submit.)

9. Port River

Location: Adelaide, Australia (Open with Google Maps)

Phone: 08 7082 9608

Website: Port River

When to Fish: Winter

Fish Species: Black snapper, salmon trout, bass, mullet

Port River is part of the beautiful estuary north of the Adelaide CBD and is a great fishing spot for local anglers. Additionally, the Port River is considered a source of largemouth bass, with annual catches weighing over 60 pounds. (Winter is regarded as the best season for catching big bass in the Port River) While fishing the Port River, visit the nearby Fisherman's Market Pier, another popular spot with enthusiasts. 

10. Onkaparinga River

Location: Port Noarlunga 5167, Australia (Open with Google Maps)

Website: Onkaparinga River

When to Visit: September to November

Fish Species: Black snapper, salmon trout, bass, mullet

The Onkaparinga River is the best place to fish for black snapper in Adelaide because the black snapper spawns in the river in late winter and spring. In addition, the Onkaparinga River is an excellent place to catch large numbers of salmon trout, perch and mullet.

If you're happy to cast a line and catch any fish species, Perry Bay is one of the most popular and consistent locations for all-around anglers. Snapper fishing is closed above the South Road Bridge from September 1st to November 30th.

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Fishing

Since fishing is a fun and relaxing thing to do, it lasts a long time. Annoying things will always happen outside, like losing electricity. As a result, outdoor mobile power can be considered an essential piece of gear for fishing. 

This need is responsibly met by Jackery Portable Power Stations, which store the power that Jackery Solar Panels collect from the sun. The Jackery Portable Power Stations can be charged in carports, wall outlets, or with the Jackery Solar Panels. If you want to go fishing in Adelaide, choose one with a bigger capacity.

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station is a lightweight and efficient power supply designed to meet the power needs for various situations such as hiking, kayaking, picnicking, camping, road trips, and emergency power backup.

This power station has a unique Battery Management System (BMS). It has 52 safety features and 12 BMS algorithms that work together to keep the device and any attached appliances as safe as possible. It also has four kinds of physical security to ensure everyone is safe.

This model stands out because it has an intelligent app control feature that lets users quickly manage the battery through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This makes it more modern and convenient to use. It's also very light - only 8.27 pounds - so it's an excellent choice for people who are always on the go.

Jackery Explorer 600 Plus 

The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus is the best portable power option. It can power many outdoor devices, from GPS devices to electric fish finders, with its 800W output and 632Wh capacity. The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus is your go-to power station for all your activities because it is strong, durable, and light. It makes charging easy outdoors.

The Jackery Explorer 600 Plus can meet all of your outdoor entertainment needs. A lot of different outdoor gadgets can connect to it. Its dual PD fast charging can go up to 100W, so your devices will be charged quickly. The Explorer 600 Plus can give you long-lasting power, a backup in an emergency, or quiet charging that won't bother anyone.

It's small and light (16.1 lbs/7.3 kg), making it convenient and easy to store. It's easy to take with you because the handle folds up. You can always get power to stay linked and charged on your fishing trip, no matter where you go.  

• Higher Capacity: With an 800W output and 632Wh capacity, it supports various outdoor devices, from coolers to camping lights.
• Fast Charging: A full charge in 1.6 hours, boosted lifespan of the battery pack by 30%, tailored for long-term reliability.
• Emergency Super Charging: Charge from 0 to 100% in one hour, always ready for emergencies.

Adelaide Fishing Tips

Are you ready to catch more fish in Adelaide? As you prepare, remembering the following essential tips will help you achieve the fishing goal.

Identify Your Target Fish: Choosing a target species and knowing a little about that species will help you choose baits, hooks, locations and techniques. For example, bream prefers structures such as rock walls or rocks and is a good choice for meat and gut bait, while whiting inhabits sandy areas and broken weeds, with worms, saltwater crayfish and squid being a few favourite baits.

Light Fishing Equipment: The heavier the rod, reel, line, leader, sinker, swivel and other accessories, the more difficult it is to use while fishing. Instead of trying to make do, buy gear that's right for your type of fishing.

Bait Selection: You never know what colour bait the fish will like that day, so start by choosing a bait that matches the colour of the water. For example, lime or chartreuse baits are often preferred in green water. Bait shape and size also need to be considered. For example, a small, thin, spoon-shaped bait is required when fishing for small, thin fish like anchovies.

Fishing Method: Do your research before you fish. Fishing methods are different, and there are plenty of tips and tricks for any fish or fishing method.

Fishing Rules: Know and follow Adelaide fishing rules and regulations in advance. Fishing sites in Adelaide may have different regulations, so be sure to follow the fishing rules posted at the entrance to the pier. 

When to Fish in Adelaide

The fishing opportunities vary throughout the four seasons. The water is relatively cold in spring, especially in the morning and after work, so fish do not bite the hook. The fish will be active once the water temperature increases in the afternoon to early evening.

Summer mornings and evenings are good times to fish. When the temperature rises in the afternoon, the fish swim into deeper water to cool off. Early morning and evening are the best times for fishing as fish emerge from the depths due to lower temperatures.

During the winter, the water tends to be colder, so fewer fish can catch bait in the warmer water. A good time to fish is in the afternoon when the sun is directly overhead because the fish gain weight during the winter.

Fish usually appear in different seasons, so the catching time will also differ. Below are the fishing times for some of the most common fish in Adelaide.

• Blue crabs appear in early spring and are most common between December and February.
• Rays are also often found in large schools from October to April.
• Bronze whale sharks are usually caught at the end of Semaphore Pier between October and March.
• The peak season for sand crabs is April to June.
• Mullets usually appear from March to June and are active in shallow water areas of rivers.
• Salmon trout are plentiful in fall and winter.
• Flatheads are usually caught in large numbers in the fall.

Adelaide Fishing FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about fishing in Adelaide:

1. Do you need a license to fish in Adelaide?

You do not need a fishing license to fish in Adelaide. However, you will need a license or registration if you are fishing in permitted reservoirs, setting lobster pots, and fishing in certain fisheries where nets are cast. Please check whether it is legal before engaging in fishing activities.

2. When is the best time of year to fish for trout in Adelaide?

The best time to fish for trout in Adelaide is during the cooler months of autumn and winter. Because water temperatures are more relaxed during the cooler months of fall and winter, trout are better suited to survive.

3. What fish do you catch in Adelaide?

Black bream, trout, mullet, Australian salmon, squid, perch, King George cod, European carp, catfish, redfin bass and rainbow trout are often caught in Adelaide.

4. Is fishing allowed at Adelaide's West Beach?

West Beach is Adelaide's fishing paradise, providing a variety of fish for you to fish. You can catch salmon, bass, trevally, rays and kingfish here. In addition, West Beach also provides parking facilities to ensure the convenience of anglers.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to relax by a gentle river, enjoy the beauty of a beach or enjoy the tranquillity of a lake, Adelaide has something for you. These are the ten best fishing spots in Adelaide, but these are just a few. There are many other fishing spots to explore in Adelaide.

This article contains detailed information about fishing in Adelaide, including fishing permits, best fishing spots, techniques, and best fishing times. What are you waiting for? Come to Adelaide, pick up a fishing rod, relax, enjoy the freedom, relieve the daily stress and become one with nature.