A record prize pool of almost $150,000 is set to lure anglers from across the state for this weekend's Let's Fish Lake Mac festival.
For the first time, eight tagged fish, including bream, whiting, tailor and flathead, will be released into the lake, with four worth $25,000 each and the other four linked to major prizes.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the event showcased what makes Lake Macquarie special.
"The lake is the heart of our community – it brings people together, fuels our local economy and inspires a love for the outdoors," he said.
"Let's Fish is a celebration of everything that makes Lake Macquarie such an incredible place to live and visit."
The catch-and-release event will draw fisherfolk from across NSW to the lake and coastline across 22-23 November, vying for prizes in junior and adult categories while contributing hundreds of thousands of dollars to the local economy.
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Arts, Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said the annual event had become a highlight on the region's tourism calendar.
"Last year's Let's Fish drew in more than 1800 competitors, with more than two-thirds travelling from outside the area," Ms Hemsley said.
"That influx of visitors means an uptick in accommodation bookings, dining out and local spending, injecting more than $500,000 into the city over the two days."
Event organiser Michael Guest said fishing-friendly conditions were on the cards.
"Late spring is a cracking time to fish Lake Mac," he said.
"Warmer water brings fish into the shallows, and I'm looking forward to seeing some great fish caught by both boat and shore-based anglers."
The competition targets bream, flathead, tailor and whiting, with participants photographing each live fish on a supplied competition brag mat before releasing them back into the water.
"Prizes aren't just for the biggest catches," Mr Guest said.
"Mystery length prizes mean anyone who reels a target species in has a shot at winning."
This year's competition includes 13 prize packs, featuring a Lowrance pro-grade sounder worth over $5000, ABU Garcia rods and reels, Mako sunglasses and BCF gift vouchers. All junior entrants who sign up for the Berkley Fishing Squad will receive a Berkley hat and sticker.
Registrations are still open at letsfishlakemac.com.au.
