Sun, Sand, and Snappers: Adelaide’s Top Beach Fishing Spots
Looking for something better than beaching? How about a fishing frenzy in Adelaide’s drop-dead gorgeous and fish-filled beaches?
Pulling a great catch feels exhilarating. Plus, you’ll be entitled to bragging rights!
And since we want you to be the next summer getaway hotshot, our team’s anglers listed the top beach spots in Adelaide for bountiful catches. But first, know what you need!
Things Needed for Fishing
Fishing Rod and Reel: The fishing rod and reel combination provides anglers with the leverage to cast their line farther and more accurately.
Our team recommends the Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Combo for newbies, as it’s known to be durable, versatile, and affordable.
Fishing Line: The fishing line is a thin and strong cord that connects the fishing reel to the hook or lure.
We suggest starting with a budget-friendly monofilament fishing line. They have good knot strength and decent sensitivity and are forgiving when handling backlash or tangles.
Hooks: Hooks are designed and used to pierce and secure the fish when it bites the bait or lures.
Match the size of the hook to the type of fish and bait you are using to ensure higher chances of a solid hookset.
Sinkers: Sinkers for fishing are weights attached to the fishing line above the hook or lure to help the bait sink quickly to the desired depth and maintain stability in the water.
Vary your sinker’s weight and style based on the fishing conditions, adjusting the sinker size to match the current, depth, and type of bait.
Bobbers and Floaters: Bobbers and floaters are buoyant devices attached to the fishing line that floats on the water’s surface to indicate when a fish bites the bait or lure.
Make sure to avoid excessive slack in the line between the bobber/floater and the hook to improve sensitivity and responsiveness to fish bites.
Lures or Baits: Lures or baits are fishing attractants that mimic natural prey or emit scents and vibrations to lure fish, increasing the likelihood of them biting the hook.
Always consider the target fish’s food sources and feeding habits, selecting baits that closely resemble their preferred prey.
Tackle Box: A tackle box is a storage container specifically designed for organizing and carrying fishing gear.
Don’t forget to check if your tackle box has signs of rusting. We also advise investing in a budget-friendly but durable tackle box like Daiwa or Ugly Stik.
Pliers or Fishing Multi-Tool: Pliers or multi-fishing tools are versatile tools used by fishers to cut lines or remove hooks.
Invest in corrosion-resistant pliers or multi-fishing tools, such as those made from stainless steel or aluminum, to ensure durability and longevity, especially when used in saltwater environments.
Where to Fish on Beaches in Adelaide
Henley Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
With Henly Beach’s diverse marine life, you’ll have a fin-tastic time hooking whiting, garfish, tommies, and even some blue swimmer crabs who think they’re masters of disguise. They aren’t if you’re good!
Fishing Tips:
- If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the beach’s jetties and test your luck at hooking bigger fish like snapper, kingfish, and salmon. Just be careful, as some bronze whaler sharks also like to show off their teeth nearby. They’re off-limits.
- Also, you better not let your fishing dreams get all tangled up in balloon rigs or wire traces by not following South Australia’s recreational fishing regulations! This tip applies to every spot in this list.
Brighton Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
Brighton Beach is a team favorite because it combines the laid-back aura of a beachside getaway with the stylish energy of the Brighton suburbs, and it’s a hotspot for King George whiting and snappers!
The Brighton Jetty stands is the ideal spot for dropping your line here, but if you’re up for an adventurous twist, why not paddle your way to the beach’s other fishing grounds with a kayak?
But remember, if you are inexperienced, don’t venture too far, for the deeper waters’ risk may outweigh the reward of bringing home free lunch.
Fishing Tips:
- We think the best time to fish at Brighton Beach is during sunny days if you prefer socializing while waiting for your bobber to move. The jetty may get crowded, but hey, you’ll have more fishing buddies.
- We recommend fishing here during winter or fall if you want to keep your peace of mind by avoiding unwanted chatter. The moody weather is perfect for self-reflection and steamed sea bream, so make sure to catch one.
Aldinga Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
Snappers and garfish are what you’ll mostly get at Aldinga Beach, but you should definitely make space for perches and Australian salmon.
If it’s your first time going fishing, this beach is for you, as you can get tips from skillful fishermen who usually go night fishing in this area’s jetties and wharves.
We made friends with some of them, and they even offered live baits and taught us how to lure elusive squids and cuttlefish! Most also suggested kayak fishing, as it yields more catches than land-based fishing.
Fishing Tips:
- Speaking of land-based fishing, Aldinga Beach’s extensive shoreline is best for this, and it’s also the saving grace of fishers who hate getting wet.
- Marinas and harbors are also found here, and they’re fantastic for night fishing, Just don’t leave home without bringing a headlamp, or you might find yourself taking an unplanned dip.
Semaphore Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
The ever-tranquil Semaphore Beach offers a rejuvenating adventure on the CBD’s west coast. With its usually sun-soaked bay and jetty, you can expect blissful summer vibes as you try to catch the mullet and garfish that call this area home.
Remember to exercise caution, though, as bronze whaler sharks also hunt in this beach’s waters. Most consider these sharks a prized game, but we recommend not targeting them even if you have large bait, such as mackerel or tuna.
South Australia’s shark fishing regulations are tighter than a vice. You don’t want to spoil your fishing escapade by breaking Johnny Law.
Instead, try to focus on the crabs lurking below the water near the jetty.
Fishing Tips:
- Fishing on the beach’s jetty is the ultimate way to go, but if you’re looking for bigger fish to fry, hop aboard a boat to reach deeper waters and boost your chances of snagging more. After all, why settle for small fries when you can aim for the big kahuna?
- No boat? No problem! You can rent a boat in the rental shops on and near the beach.
Moana Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
Our team had a blast (or more like splash) fishing at Moana Beach, and it’s no wonder this renowned getaway for peace seekers is also a top choice for fishers seeking an unforgettable experience.
First, Moana Beach harbors some of Australia’s favorite fishes, like salmon and tommy ruff. It’s like having a seafood buffet right at your fingertips, except you’ll need to exercise a tad more patience than you would at your local all-you-can-eat fish joint.
Fishing Tips:
- Another highlight of Moana Beach is its mesmerizing beauty, with rolling dunes and radiant coastal vegetation. This fishing spot’s eye-pleasing looks are a plus in our books. After all, fishing becomes more fun when your backdrop is nature’s untouched splendor.
- Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to cast your line, as the fish are more active and the beach is less crowded.
- We also said goodbye to the hassle of lugging our fishing gear across endless stretches of sand, as Moana Beach allows parking on the shore for a measly price of $8.
Port Noarlunga Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
Our 40-minute drive to Port Noarlunga Beach was a small price to pay for an epic day of fishing. This beach’s waters are packed with huge perch, herring, and southern calamari, so going home empty-handed is less likely here.
Port Noarlunga Beach also keeps fishers and anglers busy all year. During winter, Australian salmon steal the spotlight, offering a thrilling chase for those who dare to reel them in.
As the warmer months roll in, mullet and squid take center stage, their populations increasing like a beachside holiday crowd.
Fishing Tips:
- When it comes to bait, don’t worry, the local shops have got you covered. And whether you prefer to fish from the shore, the jetty, or even a boat, Port Noarlunga offers fishing opportunities for every angler’s preference.
- But if you’re after the grand prize—a bigger fish to show off to your mates—chartering a vessel is the way to go, you just need to shell out extra dollars.
Maslin Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
With an impressive variety of species, such as snapper, whiting, and garfish, there’s always something biting at the end of your line at Maslin Beach
This spot’s dramatic and charming cliffs that converge with the waters are also great sites for fishing. However, you have to take extra caution, as the ascent is a bit challenging.
We also must mention the captivating Ochre Point. This hidden gem within the beach showcases rocky outcrops and secluded coves, resulting in desirable fishing spots that are beautiful, convenient, and reely fish-filled.
Fishing Tips:
- Our team prefers going here during winter nights. Yes, the brooding weather never fails to chill us to the bone, but this is the peak time for snapper fishing.
- You better channel your inner polar bear if you follow our winter night fishing shenanigans. It’s wise to layer up with thickset clothing. Bringing hot coffee or cocoa is also a terrific idea.
- But if the cold bothers you, try to swing by during hotter months when salmon and garfish normally party at Maslin Beach’s waters.
Glenelg Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
Ah, Glenelg Beach—a convenient coastal haven that has anglers flocking like seagulls to a bag of fish and chips. This spot is a no-brainer for us, as it’s only a quick and breezy 20-minute drive from the CBD.
Beyond its short distance from the center, Glenelg Beach offers a stunning and bountiful treasure trove of fish. Here, you can reel feast-worthy salmon, trout, mulloway, and bream!
Don’t forget to try the nearby sweet delights of the nearby ice cream shops. We find mind-cooling treats to be super effective when our catch is low.
Fishing Tips:
- You can either drop your line from the shore or venture out to the jetty, where the fishing magic usually happens. During sunset, varieties of squids swarm the shallows, so keep your eyes peeled for them if you’re craving calamari.
- When it comes to preparing for your fishing expedition, the Jetty Road precinct has you covered. This vibrant hub offers a selection of shops where you can purchase premium bait.
- Plus, after a rewarding day of fishing, take a well-deserved break and treat yourself to a meal with a view at one of the nearby cafes and restaurants!
Grange Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
Looking to embark on a crab-tivating adventure at Grange Beach where the crabs are as abundant as our dad puns? If your answer is a resounding “Yes!” you might enjoy this spot’s abundance of large blue swimmer crabs.
The best part? You may spot them in Grange Beach’s calm sections and shallow reefs, ensuring a hassle-free (but definitely not dry) process of acquiring your crab pot’s main ingredient.
Fishing Tips:
- Moreover, Grange Beach offers a cornucopia of other seafood and marine life for you to reel in. From the swift and silver herring to the elegant and slender garfish, it’s a fishing fiesta here.
- When it comes to the best time for fishing here, the early birds and night owls have the advantage. Try to rise with the sun or venture out after dark to target garfish and herring.
- And if crabbing is your game, set your sights on these sandy-bottomed dwellers during the day. Additionally, April to June reign supreme as the peak season for sand crabs, so make sure to mark your calendars and try not to miss the crabby festivities.
- The secret to luring those clawed creatures lies in baiting your crab pots with their favorite fish heads.
West Beach
Fastest Route to Get Here:
West Beach is underrated, but it’s a dream come true for fishing enthusiasts seeking a tranquil angling experience.
It may not boast the same bustling atmosphere as its counterparts, but don’t let that fool you. This spot’s waters teem with fish.
During summer months, most fishers flock to this beach in pursuit of black bream, salmon trout, and mulloway. As the temperature drops, trumpet whiting, and snapper become common here.
Fishing Tips: Black breams weighing more than 1 kg (2.2 lbs) are abundant here.
So, you better arm yourself with a trusty rod that can handle its weight, a selection of bait preferred by salmon (squid and pippies), and a small Esky to keep your prized catches fresh.