If you’re planning a trip to northwest NSW and wondering about Mehi River fishing Moree opportunities, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. This winding inland river, flowing right through town on the banks of the Gwydir Valley, delivers consistent catches of golden perch (yellowbelly), Murray cod, and silver perch—plus some of the region’s most productive yabbying. Unlike more famous coastal fishing destinations, the Mehi offers a peaceful, uncrowded experience where you can cast a line from shaded riverbanks just minutes from your caravan or motel.

Why Mehi River Fishing Moree Is Worth Your Time

The Mehi River doesn’t have the fame of bigger Murray-Darling tributaries, and that’s exactly its charm. For example, you’ll rarely compete for a good fishing spot, even on weekends. The river supports healthy populations of golden perch—locally called yellowbelly—which are prized for their fighting spirit and excellent eating quality. Murray cod, Australia’s largest freshwater fish, also patrol the deeper holes and snags, especially in the cooler months.

Moreover, the river flows through town and past several accessible parks and reserves, so you can fish productively without a 4WD or boat. The water quality benefits from upstream flows and artesian seepage, maintaining fish populations even during drier periods when some inland rivers struggle.

Best Spots for Fishing the Mehi River in Moree

The stretch of river running through Moree offers multiple access points. One particularly productive area is near the Moree Tourist Park at 28 Oak Street, which sits riverside on the Mehi River. This location gives you direct access to deeper pools and shaded banks where yellowbelly congregate, especially around dawn and dusk. Guests staying at the park can literally walk from their caravan to a prime fishing spot in under a minute.

However, you don’t need to stay at the caravan park to fish nearby. Public access points exist along several parks and reserves flanking the river through town. Look for sections with fallen timber and undercut banks—these structures hold fish year-round. Additionally, walking upstream or downstream from town accesses quieter pools where larger Murray cod tend to shelter during daylight hours.

What You’ll Catch: Yellowbelly, Cod, and Yabbies

Golden perch (yellowbelly) are the most reliable catch on the Mehi River. These bronze-gold fish hit hard and fight well on light to medium tackle. They respond to a variety of baits and lures, making them ideal for both experienced anglers and families introducing kids to fishing. Murray cod, while less common, reach impressive sizes—check current NSW size and bag limits before you fish, as regulations protect breeding populations.

For something different, try yabbying. The Mehi River supports excellent yabby populations, particularly in the warmer months. Here’s what you’ll need for a successful yabbying session:

  • Opera house-style yabby traps or simple drop nets (available at Moree tackle shops)
  • Fresh bait: fish frames, chicken necks, or pet food work well
  • A bucket and measuring gauge to check size limits
  • Early morning or late afternoon timing for best results
  • Patience—leave traps in place for at least 20-30 minutes

Check with the Moree Visitor Information Centre for current fishing and yabbying regulations, as size limits and seasonal closures can change.

Gear and Techniques for Mehi River Angling

A medium-weight spinning outfit (4-8kg) handles most situations on the Mehi. For lures, hard-bodied divers in natural baitfish colours work well for yellowbelly, while soft plastics fished slowly along the bottom tempt Murray cod. Live bait anglers find success with yabbies, shrimp, and worms fished under a float or on a running sinker rig.

Because the river features plenty of snags and timber, bring extra tackle—you’ll lose some to the structure. Nevertheless, that same timber holds the fish, so don’t be timid about casting close to cover. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most active bite periods, though summer evenings can produce explosive surface action as the air cools.

Combining Fishing with Moree’s Thermal Attractions

One unique advantage of fishing Moree is pairing it with the town’s famous artesian hot springs. After a morning on the river, soak tired muscles in the thermal pools at your accommodation—both the Gwydir Caravan Park (corner of Newell Highway and Amaroo Drive) and the Moree Tourist Park feature on-site artesian pools. Alternatively, visit the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, which draws mineral-rich thermal water naturally heated to around 41°C from the Great Artesian Basin.

This combination makes Moree an ideal base for multi-day fishing trips. You can fish the Mehi River at dawn, explore the Gwydir Wetlands State Conservation Area (roughly 60km northwest) for additional angling opportunities, then return to town for hot springs and a good meal.

Practical Tips for Your Mehi River Fishing Trip

Moree is approximately a 7-hour drive (around 630km) from Sydney and 5.5 hours from Brisbane, making it accessible for a long weekend or part of a broader northwest NSW tour. NSW TrainLink runs a daily train from Sydney (roughly 8.5 hours), and Moree Airport sits 5km from the town centre with regular flights from Sydney if you prefer to fly and hire a car.

For current fishing licence requirements, bag limits, and any seasonal closures, contact the Moree Visitor Information Centre or check the NSW Department of Primary Industries fishing regulations before you cast a line. Local tackle shops can also provide up-to-date advice on what’s biting and which baits are working best during your visit.

Whether you’re a serious angler chasing trophy Murray cod or a family looking for an easy, rewarding outdoor activity, Mehi River fishing in Moree delivers. The uncrowded banks, healthy fish populations, and unique pairing with thermal springs make this northwest NSW destination a hidden gem worth discovering.

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For current opening hours, prices and bookings, see NSW National Parks – Mount Kaputar National Park.

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