Adventure brief
Blue Eyed Cod Deep Fishing
Spend a full nine hours from Sydney Harbour chasing giant reef species—Blue Eyed Cod, Groper, Hapuka and Gemfish—on a guided offshore charter. Learn local techniques from an experienced crew and return with stories, skills, and possibly a trophy catch.
Blue Eyed Cod Deep Fishing launches from Sydney Harbour, New South Wales, Australia, on a full-day 9-hour offshore fishing trip that pushes out to reefs and shelf edges where giant cod, groper and gemfish roam. Operated by Find Fish Fast and run through Fishfinder Fishing Charters, this trip leaves from a selectable wharf in the harbour — you can select which wharf is best to meet within your booking. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time! On board a stable, purpose-fit boat with a ten-person maximum, you'll head up to 60 kilometres offshore chasing deep-water species: Blue Eyed Cod, Bass, Groper, Hapuka and Gemfish.
The day is equal parts patient technique and sudden, violent action as heavy fish take bottom-bouncing rigs or vertical baits. The primary landscape is open ocean punctuated by reef pinnacles and the continental shelf drop; expect seawater that changes from green near the heads to deep blue at the ridges. Bird life — shearwaters and gannets — often give away schools; dolphins sometimes intercept lines.
This is a hands-on day made for anglers who want to fight large reef species and bring home a table-ready catch. The crew focuses on finding structure and reading current, alternating drift and anchored drops depending on conditions. Rigs, guidance, and local knowledge are included; you'll learn to feel the bottom, set hooks for heavy slow fish, and handle big fish alongside an experienced skipper.
Group size caps at ten so you get plenty of rod time. Why book here? Sydney Harbour is both an iconic arrival point and a direct conduit to productive offshore ground — its protected access and proximity to deep water make long-day trips practical without lengthy transfers. Find Fish Fast has built a local reputation for consistency and weather-aware scheduling; Fishfinder’s cancellation policy lets you reschedule or receive your deposit back if seas are unsafe.
Practical notes: trips run year-round but many anglers target winter months when deeper species stack; bring sea-sickness remedies, sun protection, and layered rainproof clothing. Legal bag limits and size minimums apply — check NSW fisheries rules before keeping fish. The experience suits confident anglers who can handle physical fights, long bouts on a moving deck, and changing weather; it’s less suitable for people with severe sea sickness or limited mobility.
Whether you’re chasing your first groper or targeting a trophy Blue Eyed Cod, this is a long, focused day on the water that combines Sydney’s harbor convenience with the raw challenge of deep-drop reef fishing. For many visitors, it becomes the best way to test tackle, learn local techniques, and walk ashore with a memorable catch. Booking includes experienced crew guidance, instruction, and an authentic Sydney offshore fishing experience for anglers.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive earlyessential
Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time to check gear and receive a safety briefing.
- 02Treat seasickness earlyessential
Take motion-sickness medication before boarding; offshore rollers can build quickly on long runs.
- 03Dress in layersinfo
Bring sun protection plus a windproof rain layer—conditions offshore change from harbour calm to cool and wet.
- 04Know the ruleswarning
Confirm NSW fisheries bag limits and size minimums before keeping fish to avoid fines and support stocks.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sea-sickness medication
Helps most anglers stay on their feet during the long offshore transit.
EssentialNon-slip deck shoes
Secure footing on wet decks makes fighting heavy fish safer and easier.
EssentialWaterproof jacket and layers
Windproof and waterproof layers keep you comfortable when conditions turn cool and wet.
winterEssentialHigh-SPF sunscreen and wide-brim hat
Reflective sun and salt spray increase UV exposure during long days on deck.
summerEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Early morning harbour exit for calm water and bird activity, Working the outer reef pinnacles where big groper and gemfish concentrate
Local fauna
Common dolphins, Australasian gannets and shearwaters
Historic heritage
Sydney Harbour has long been a maritime hub and provides fast access from the city to productive offshore reef grounds.
Mindful exploration
Respect size and bag limits, practice selective retention and consider releasing breeding females to support local populations.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Bow during harbour exit for skyline and approach shots, Wheelhouse roof for horizon and ridge photos, Stern during a fish fight to capture action and spray
- Subjects
- Open ocean and reef ridges, Feeding seabirds and dolphins, Anglers fighting large reef fish
- Best times
- Early morning transit, Late afternoon light, Calm mid-morning when seas often flatten
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Where do we meet the boat?
You can select which wharf is best to meet within your booking; confirmation will include the chosen meeting wharf.
How long is the trip?
This is a full-day 9-hour offshore charter that typically includes transit to and from reef and shelf grounds.
Is there an age limit or maximum group size?
There is no listed age minimum, but the trip is physically demanding; maximum group size is 10 people.
What happens if weather is bad?
If weather is unsuitable Fishfinder Fishing Charters will offer rescheduling or deposit return according to their weather policy.
Can I keep my catch?
You may keep fish within NSW legal bag limits and size minimums—check local fisheries regulations before keeping fish.
Are rods and bait provided?
The crew supplies rigs, guidance, and local knowledge; check your booking for included tackle details.