Go Fishing - Copeton Dam
Copeton Dam has earned a solid reputation among fishing enthusiasts as one of the premier destinations for catching large Murray cod in New South Wales.
Set against the stunning backdrop of pristine gorges and spread across approximately 900 hectares of rugged bushland on the western slopes of the New England Ranges, Copeton Dam offers scenery to match its fishing fame.
The dam is conveniently located between three towns: Inverell (40 km), Bundarra (26 km), and Bingara (55 km), with access available from all three.
Construction of Copeton Dam began in 1968, and it officially opened in 1973, primarily to supply irrigation water. When full, the dam holds a staggering 1,364,000 megalitres, over three times the volume of Sydney Harbour. It spans more than 11,000 acres and reaches depths of up to 104 metres, with the dam wall itself standing 113 metres tall.
At extremely low water levels (below 3%), remnants of the old Dasey Town, including its church, become visible on the lakebed— an eerie and fascinating sight.
Beyond its recreational value, Copeton Dam plays a vital role in regional water supply, including for the city of Tamworth, and supports the largest pecan nut plantation in the Southern Hemisphere, located in the nearby Gwydir River Valley.
Water releases from the dam also serve a wide range of purposes, environmental flow management, hydro-electric power generation, flood mitigation, irrigation for crops such as cotton, lucerne, wheat, fruit trees, and vegetables, pasture support for sheep and cattle farming.
The area around the dam is known for its striking white granite boulders and thick wattle brush, which provide ideal structures for fish habitats. These spots are prime fishing locations, especially for Murray cod and golden perch, as well as eel-tailed catfish, silver perch, and spangled perch.
Even if the fishing is quiet, there’s plenty to explore. When water levels permit, nearby gorges are accessible by boat and offer opportunities for wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for goats, deer, pigs, emus, and a diverse range of birdlife.
Accommodation is easy and flexible, with camping grounds and cabins available on both the northern and southern shores. Boat ramps and other facilities make it a convenient spot for extended stays.
Tip: If you’re visiting in late autumn, winter, or early spring, be sure to pack warm clothing—the area can get quite cold in the evenings and early mornings, despite its northern location.
With year-round access and a wide variety of fishing and outdoor opportunities, Copeton Dam is an excellent destination for anglers of all skill levels. Hopefully, this guide helps you plan your next adventure to the iconic Australian fishing spot!
Guide
Go Fishing - Copeton Dam (PDF, 3462.65 KB)
