To catch thumping kingfish, snapper and mulloway within one kilometre of the CBD is unheard of in other ports and estuary systems along our coastline. 

To tangle with such quality fish in other areas requires a long boat ride to reefs way off the coast.

Here in Port Stephens, these excellent fish can be caught off jetties and breakwalls within walking distance of the local Nelson Bay shopping centre.

Recently, local champions Jamie Culver from Salt Ash and Matt Hardman from Salamander, targeting thumping kingfish, anchored just off the Nelson Bay breakwall and floated a garfish along the wall.

Whammo! Giant kingfish smashed the bait, resulting in a couple of crackers over 80 centimetres and other bigger fish that are still going.

Returning to the Little Beach fish cleaning tables the boys attracted a crowd of Sydney visitors.

“Where did you catch those?” They quizzed.

“Just around the corner,” the boys replied.

“Yeah, sure.”

Don't forget that the Timber and Oyster Festival will be held at Karuah on October 15.

It is heaven for oyster lovers.