Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone) is a protected marine area on the southern shore of Botany Bay at Kurnell, NSW. Its standout feature is that recreational fishing is allowed there, by hook and line or with lawful recreational nets such as hoop nets and lift nets.
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About Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
Recreational Fishing in the Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone) permits recreational fishing, so anglers can take fish and invertebrates by hook and line. The Refuge Zone also allows the lawful use of a recreational fishing net, such as hoop nets and lift nets. These methods must follow the other NSW fishing rules and regulations that apply to the reserve's waters. The Refuge Zone sits within a larger aquatic reserve that the NSW Department of Primary Industries describes as the largest in New South Wales. Sanctuary areas within the same reserve ban fishing, spearfishing and collecting, so the Refuge Zone is the part of the reserve where these activities are permitted.
Snorkelling, Swimming and Boating at Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone) lists snorkelling, swimming and boating among its confirmed activities. Snorkelling and swimming take place in the reserve's waters along the southern shore of Botany Bay, which makes the Refuge Zone a water-based destination rather than a land-based park. Boating is also an established use, so visitors can arrive by boat as well as on foot. Combined with fishing, these activities make the Refuge Zone's waters a place to spend active time on the bay.
Facilities at Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
Getting to Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
The reserve lies on the southern shore of Botany Bay at Kurnell, stretching from Shell Point on the western side of the Bay to Bonna Point in the east.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Kurnell
- 📍Shell Point
- 📍Bonna Point
Frequently asked questions about Towra Point Aquatic Reserve (Refuge Zone)
Is Towra Point Aquatic Reserve in Kurnell good for a day trip?
The reserve offers snorkelling, swimming, boating and fishing, so it suits a day spent on the water. Its waters sit on the southern shore of Botany Bay.
What sports or recreational activities can I do at Towra Point Aquatic Reserve?
Visitors can fish by hook and line or with recreational nets, snorkel, swim and go boating in the Refuge Zone.
What makes Towra Point Aquatic Reserve unique compared to other parks in Sydney?
It is the largest aquatic reserve in New South Wales, and its Refuge Zone permits fishing that the neighbouring sanctuary areas ban.
Is it safe to swim or paddle at Towra Point Aquatic Reserve?
Swimming and snorkelling are listed activities in the reserve's waters on the southern shore of Botany Bay.