Winter Family Fishing Competition 2026

There’s something special about winter mornings in Port Stephens.

The water is calmer. The air feels fresher. And everything slows down just enough for you to really be present.

This July 11, Nelson Bay Boat Hire and Watersports invites you to experience it firsthand with our Winter Family Fishing Competition — part of the Port Stephens Winter Festival.

A simple idea, done well: Book a boat. Bring the family. Catch the moment.

What to Expect

This is a relaxed, family-friendly morning designed for all skill levels, whether you’ve been fishing for years or it’s your very first time holding a rod.

The focus isn’t just on what you catch, but on the experience of being out there together.

Event Flow

Your morning unfolds like this:

8:30AM — Briefing Begins
Meet at Nelson Bay Beach for vessel inductions and a quick rundown of the event.

9:00AM – 11:00AM — Fishing Time
Head out onto the water, cast your lines, and enjoy a calm winter morning doing something different.

No rush. No pressure. Just time well spent on the bay.

Friendly Competition, Fun for Everyone

To add a bit of excitement, there are prizes across four categories:

  • Biggest Fish

  • Most Fish Caught

  • Most Unusual Catch

  • Youngest Angler

Winners will take home bait, tackle, and fishing gear (but the real reward is the experience itself!).

Designed for Families

This event is built with families in mind.

It’s about introducing kids to something new.
Sharing laughs between casts.
And creating those small, meaningful moments that turn into lasting memories.

No experience is needed. Just bring your crew and a sense of adventure.

Part of Something Bigger

The Winter Family Fishing Competition is proudly part of the Port Stephens Winter Festival, running from July 10–19.

We’re proud to be a Bronze sponsor and even more excited to create an experience that brings people together on the water.

Book Your Boat

Spots are limited, and mornings like this don’t come around often.

📅 Saturday, 11 July 2026
9:00AM – 11:00AM (Briefing at 8:30AM)
📍 Nelson Bay Beach

Book your boat, bring the family, and be part of it!

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Free Kids Fishing Workshop: Learn to Fish in Your Local Waterways