Hundreds of anglers will cast their lines at Lake Keepit and Copeton Waters this weekend as one of Australia’s biggest fishing competitions, Fish Reflections, opens across New South Wales.
Fish Reflections is a catch-and-release event organised by Crown land holiday park manager Reflections Holidays, now in its second year. Anglers of all ages, from beginners to experts, are permitted to fish at their favourite local waterway, measure their catches on a “brag mat” and enter results online, with $90,000 in prizes on offer across various categories.
Reflections is the biggest holiday park group in New South Wales, with parks in popular fishing destinations including Lake Keepit and Copeton Waters as well as coastal locations. Fish Reflections was launched in 2025 to encourage guests and visitors to connect with nature.
Minister for Lands, Sport and Tourism Steve Kamper said the fishing event was a valuable addition to Reflections’ calendar to promote nature-based holidays at Crown land holiday parks.
“Fishing is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all backgrounds and Fish Reflections is a great way to bring them together in a weekend of fun and friendly competition,” Mr Kamper said.
“Reflections holiday parks are in some of the most beautiful locations in NSW, and what better way to appreciate them than with a fishing rod and some of your favourite fishing companions.”
Reflections chief executive Nick Baker said Fish Reflections was a great way for families and friends to connect outside at their local waterway.
“As our lives get more hectic, many of us are realising more than ever how important it is to take some time out in nature and stay in touch with loved ones, and Fish Reflections is the perfect excuse to do that,” Mr Baker said.
“It doesn’t matter if you’ve never caught a fish, it’s simply about getting together and casting a line. You never know, you might even win a prize.”
Among those keenly following this year’s event will be veteran Central Coast anglers Doug Bron, 84, and his brother-in-law Allan Fernace, 85, who will take part as observers and support efforts to promote the sport. The pair have spent three months fishing daily from 9am to lunchtime on the breakwall opposite Reflections North Haven, where Doug has holidayed for 36 years.
Since losing their partners, Allan 24 years ago and Doug nine years ago, the two men have continued their yearly fishing holiday tradition as part of a caravan trip up the coast to Queensland.
“When we are fishing we get a lot of people who just come up and have a chat for 10 minutes or half an hour, and you might not see them again but it’s great,” Allan said.
“I would love to see more young kids get into fishing, it’s not just relaxing, it’s good for you too, being outdoors. We give advice to other fishers, I don’t care if they get the fish!”
Registrations for Fish Reflections close at 12pm on Sunday, 27 September, or when brag mats sell out.
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