The Rivers
The Rivers
An interconnected river system where tides, flow and structure shape how and where Australian bass feed.
The Hawkesbury River
Big water. Big fish.
The Hawkesbury is a vast and dynamic river system that offers some of the most diverse bass habitat in NSW. Timber, rock, grass, eddies and depth all play a role here, and fish behaviour changes constantly with tide and flow.
When you get dialled in on the Hawkesbury, the rewards are hard to beat. The average fish size is excellent, and the potential for a 40+ centimetre Australian bass at any time is very real. Success comes from understanding how fish position themselves across changing water and adjusting tactics accordingly.
This is a river that rewards preparation, timing and experience.
The Colo River
Technical, pristine and unforgettable.
The Colo is the most technical and arguably the most beautiful of the three rivers. Sand-filtered, crystal-clear water creates exceptional sight-fishing opportunities, while strong flows can turn sections of the river into fast-moving, demanding water.
As part of the Greater Blue Mountains UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Colo is as wild as it is productive. When conditions align and the bite is on, 50+ fish days are not out of the question.
Precision matters here. Reading water, understanding current seams and adjusting presentations are key to unlocking what the Colo has to offer.
The Macdonald River
Sneaky, unpredictable and full of opportunity.
The “Gollum” of the three rivers, the Macdonald is defined by darker water, deep holes and constantly shifting eddies shaped by tide and sand. It’s a river that doesn’t give much away at first glance.
Those conditions create opportunity. Fish here are generally less spooky and less likely to shut down after repeated catch-and-release. With its moving structure and darker water, the Macdonald consistently produces quality fish.
Big bass seem drawn to this part of the catchment, including your guide’s personal best 44.5 cm fish, landed right here.
One Interconnected System
Together, the Hawkesbury, Colo and Macdonald Rivers form a single, interconnected system, each offering a distinct style of fishing and its own challenges. From broad tidal reaches to narrow, fast-flowing runs and darker, slower water, no two stretches fish the same way.
Choosing the right river on the right day is critical. Tides, flows, water clarity and recent weather all influence where fish position and how they feed. Understanding these variables allows trips to be planned with purpose, adjusting locations, launch points and techniques to suit conditions rather than forcing a fixed plan.
This approach is what consistently turns time on the water into meaningful fishing opportunities.
Notes From the River
Thoughts, reports and lessons learned from time spent on the water.
