Port Stephens NSW fishing forecast
Port Stephens NSW is a saltwater fishing spot in Tasman Sea, Australia. Anglers here target Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Yellowfin Bream. The most productive months are typically October, November, December, January, February, March.
Current conditions
| Sea surface temp | 18.5 °C |
|---|---|
| Wind | 27 km/h from WNW |
| Wave height | 0.7 m at 8 s |
| Current | 0.10 m/s toward SW |
| Pressure | 1021 hPa |
| Depth | 6 m |
| Cloud cover | 5% |
Last updated Jul 22, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.
What the score means at Port Stephens NSW
Port Stephens NSW currently scores 96 out of 100 (Good). Water temperature is 18.5 °C. 8 forecast signals are active in this score. As a rough guide, a score above ~65 reflects conditions experienced anglers would typically fish; below ~45, consider waiting for a better window or targeting different species. The score blends live weather and ocean signals and can change through the day.
Bite windows
Best months for Port Stephens NSW:
About this spot
Bays are sheltered and usually calmer than open water, offering protected fishing and holding structure for inshore species.
Approximate bottom depth: 6 m Depth is GEBCO-derived bathymetry, approximate only — not a nautical chart. Do not use for navigation or anchoring.
What you can catch
-
Thunnus albacares
-
Coryphaena hippurus
-
Yellowfin BreamAcanthopagrus australis
Best months by species at Port Stephens NSW
| Yellowfin TunaThunnus albacares | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahi-MahiCoryphaena hippurus | ||||||||||||
| Yellowfin BreamAcanthopagrus australis |
Months reflect typical catchability by species at this latitude; local seasons and closures apply.
Local regulations
Licensing:
- saltwater-recreational — residents Recreational saltwater fishing licence requirements vary by state. NSW: NSW Recreational Fishing Fee. VIC: Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence (RFL). QLD: no recreational licence for most species. SA, WA, TAS: state-specific. Check the relevant state authority., non-residents Same state-level rules apply to non-residents. Visiting anglers can usually buy a short-term licence online from the state authority before fishing.
- freshwater-recreational — residents Inland (lakes/rivers) usually requires a state-level recreational fishing licence (NSW, VIC) or angler permit (NT, parts of QLD)., non-residents Visiting anglers must hold the relevant state licence.
Some rules may have changed since our last verification — always confirm with the authority before you fish.
FishRadar regulations are summaries for informational purposes only. Australian fishing rules vary by state and zone. Always verify with the relevant state authority (NSW DPI, VIC VFA, QLD DAF, WA DPIRD, SA PIRSA, TAS DPIPWE, NT Fisheries) before fishing.
Check Port Stephens NSW before you go
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Nearby spots
Explore 5 more fishing spots within 296 km of Port Stephens NSW.
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Port Stephens Gamefish
Port Stephens NSW Australia
Sydney Deep Water
Port Macquarie NSW
Jervis Bay NSW
Frequently asked questions
What fish can you catch at Port Stephens NSW?
Anglers at Port Stephens NSW target Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-Mahi and Yellowfin Bream.
When is the best time to fish Port Stephens NSW?
The most productive months at Port Stephens NSW are typically October, November, December, January, February, March.
What is the fishing forecast for Port Stephens NSW right now?
Port Stephens NSW currently scores 96 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.
Do you need a licence to fish Port Stephens NSW?
Fishing at Port Stephens NSW follows the local rules for Tasman Sea, Australia. Bag limits, size limits, seasons and licence requirements are summarised in the Local regulations section above, with a link to the official authority.
Fishing guides for this spot
- How to Catch Yellowfin Tuna: Chasing the Blue-Water BrawlerHow to Catch Mahi-Mahi / Dorado: Chasing the Electric-Green Ghosts of the BluewaterHow to Read Tides for Fishing
Scores and conditions are forecasts for guidance only and can change rapidly. Always check local rules and current conditions, follow all fishing regulations, and prioritise your safety on the water.