Sydney Boat Show Casts the Perfect Line for Anglers
With more than 85 percent of Australians living within 50 kilometres of the coast, it’s no surprise that boating is deeply embedded in the national lifestyle. Around five million Australians take to the water each year, and nearly one in five households own a boat or watercraft. However, a recent study by the Boating Industry Association (BIA) has found that it is the lure of fishing that is drawing the most people on board.
According to the BIA’s 2024 National Recreational Boating Survey, 49 percent of respondents said fishing was the primary purpose of their boating trips. That aligns with data from the Australian Government’s National Social and Economic Survey of Recreational Fishers (2018–2021), which found that 4.2 million Australians participate in recreational fishing annually, whether from the shore or a boat.
The survey further revealed that 58.8 percent of recreational anglers engage in both shore and boat-based fishing, with 26.4 percent casting a line from the shore, whilst 14.8 percent preferring boat-based fishing.
BIA President, Adam Smith, said fishing has become more than just a hobby, it is a vital part of the boating experience and contributes significantly to the economy and lifestyle.
“Recreational fishing is not only a cherished pastime but also a major economic driver. It supports more than 100,000 jobs and contributes a remarkable $11 billion to the Australian economy each year,” Mr Smith said.
For those who relish in casting a line into the open coastal waters, or perhaps prefer exploring the vast inland waterways, the Sydney Boat Show which takes place from 14 to 17 August at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park will be the ultimate one-stop-shop.
Mr Smith continued, “for enthusiasts through to professionals, the 2025 Sydney Boat Show will showcase the latest and greatest in fishing equipment and skills, from cutting-edge tackle, advanced fish finders, trolling engines, new gear and gadgets, plus hundreds of boats on display. Every taste, style and budget will be accommodated for.”
Some of the key fishing brands and businesses locked in to display include: Anaconda, Blakes Marine, Boston Whaler, Edencraft, Escape Fishing with ET, Garmin, Good Times Marine, Hot Tackle, Insinc Marine, JD’s Boat Shed, Mak Marine, Marinemind, Navico Group, Queensland Marine Centre, Rayglass, Raymarine, The Boat Warehouse, TR Marine and Wing Dak.
This year’s show will also host several fishing focused launches and premieres, here’s just a sample:
- Edencraft 655 Centre Console – Built for serious offshore action; designed for hardcore fishers and thrill-seekers.
- ROTO Hydra530 – First mono hull polyethylene boat with air step technology, ushering in a new era in boating.
- Vortum Marine Generators – New super-silenced range backed by 45+ years of commercial marine expertise.
- Chapman Marine Group SDX 270 Outboard – Combines premium features, optimized seating, and ample storage for all aquatic activities.
- 2026 Malibu Wakesetter – Debut of a new model tailored to Australian and New Zealand conditions.
- Savwinch Stainless Steel Winch Hauler Range – Australian-made from 316 marine-grade stainless steel, designed to simplify boat launching and retrieval.
- BRIG Navigator 22 & 24 – Navigator 22 – Reinforced deep-V hull, spacious console, ample storage, ideal for family cruising and fishing. Navigator 24 – Replaces the Navigator 730, features deep-V hull, centre console with single or twin engine options.
- Stabicraft 2350 Ultra Centrecab – Built on Supercab offshore hull with full walkaround deck, large cabin, and multiple fishing options.
- 2025 Cobalt CS22 – Compact luxury with sculpted Wave-style hull, Obsidian windshield, and full-beam swim platform.
- Whittley Marine Group – launching a new six-strong aluminium boat range, featuring Honda Repower Division with the debut of Honda 150 and V6 250 outboards.
With hundreds of marine businesses and brands from across Australia and beyond set to converge on Sydney Olympic Park, visitors will have the chance to view and compare the latest in fishing boats, technology and gear in one location. 
Keen anglers are in for a treat with Australia’s leading fishing retail store, Hot Tackle, exhibiting at the show. Having just won the prestigious “Best Fishing Tackle Store Award” at the 2025 AFTA Trade Show, Hot Tackle provides anglers with the best quality tackle from the biggest and best fishing suppliers in Australia and globally, offering a fully inclusive range from light estuary lures to heavy game tackle, and everything in between.
The Anaconda Main Stage will be the go-to spot for fishing fans, buzzing with daily sessions full of expert demonstrations, hands-on masterclasses and special guest appearance from “Shroom”, the TikTok-famous fish influencer behind #FishTok. Packed with practical tips and insider tricks, it’s all about helping anglers level up their game. Hosted by fishing, boating, and weather expert, and Step Outside host Paul Burt, the stage will feature a stellar lineup of fishing legends covering a wide range of must-know topics.
Fishing icon Paul Burt said, “this year is set to be our biggest and best yet. We’ve got an unmatched line-up of fishing legends ready to share the top tips and expert tricks they’ve picked up over their incredible careers. Add to that hands-on masterclasses, exciting demos, games with amazing prizes, and a few great stories we can’t wait to tell. If you want to wow your mates the next time you cast a line, this is an event you definitely don’t want to miss!”
The ever-popular Berkley Supertank Fishing Show will be a highlight, hosted by one of Australia’s most respected fishing experts, Michael “Cookie” Cook. Whether a seasoned angler or just curious, Michael delivers an entertaining and informative experience, sharing his passion and deep fishing knowledge to help everyone improve their skills and reel in that dream catch.
Rugby league legend turned fishing icon and Sydney Boat Show Ambassador, Andrew ‘ET’ Ettingshausen will be making special guest appearances to share his expert insights and highlights from an incredible 26 seasons of Escape Fishing with ET.
Transport for NSW and their safety partners will also present the Boating Safety Zone – an area dedicated to marine safety information, equipment and demonstrations. A wide variety of safety exhibitors will be on hand to answer questions, guide visitors through interactive elements and provide the latest information on being safe while out on the water.
Mr Smith added, “Australia’s love for fishing and boating isn’t just about leisure – it’s also about community, mental wellbeing, and economic sustainability and we are excited to bring the best of this industry together under one roof so everyone can share in the enjoyment that this inclusive activity continues to offer.”
General admission tickets are $19 (plus booking fee) and children under 16 enter free when accompanied by a paying adult. Sydney Olympic Park, located just 14 kilometres from the Sydney CBD, is easily accessible by public transport, including trains, metro, and buses. As a bonus for visitors, tickets to the Sydney Boat Show include travel on trains, metro, and light rail services throughout the event.
For exclusive announcements, and ticket details, visit sydneyboatshow.com.au. Sign up to the newsletter to stay informed with the latest updates.
The 2025 Sydney Boat Show is presented by the Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) and its event delivery partner Mulpha Events, and proudly supported by Partner in Safety – Transport for NSW, Anaconda, Century Batteries, GM Speciality Vehicles, and Ocean Magazine.
