Bethungra Dam, NSW

Bethungra Dam at sunset

Since the sun has finally decided to shine, it seems like a good time to mention Bethungra Dam. Bethungra Dam is located just out of the tiny town of Bethungra in south western New South Wales. The dam isn't huge (it covers around 14 hectares) but there is plenty of space to paddle a kayak or tinny and plenty of fish(mainly redfin) hovering under the water. 


There are some craggy hills to one side of the dam which provide a short walk which isn't too challenging and there are plenty of rocky features for any budding photographers looking for a showy subject. When the sun sets, they glow red and with just a little imagination you can imagine you are up in the Scottish Highlands...

Bethungra Dam

Bethungra Dam at sunset

The dam has camping facilities, toilet facilities, BBQ areas but does get busy during school holidays and on warm weekends. That said, the majority of times I have been there (especially in winter) I have had it all to myself.


Bethungra Dam can be accessed via Waterworks Road in Bethungra. This is a dirt road but its in fairly good condition so should be OK for most cars. Bethungra is about 20 minutes from Cootamundra.

Moonrise over Bethungra Dam

Rocky outcrop, Bethungra Dam

BBQ sausages sizzling beside Bethungra Dam!

Lake Eucumbene and Smoked Trout

Moonscape, Frying Pan, Lake Eucumbene

One thing I have fast learned about the Snowy Mountains is that fishing, and in particular, trout fishing, is big business here. Lakes Eucumbene and Jindabyne are full of them and during the season from the October long weekend to the June long weekend, you can also fish for them in the rivers. Lake Jindabyne is easy to access from Jindabyne town centre and Lake Eucumbene is only a short drive from Cooma. There are plenty of spots to try your luck for trout at both lakes and they are also accessible by boat. The Alpine Angler has a regular fishing report available here.

Waiting for trout, Lake Eucumbene

Approaching storm, Lake Eucumbene

Waiting game, trout fishing, Lake Eucumbene

Rising waters, Lake Eucumbene

Now I am no expert on fishing and have NEVER caught a trout. I had my first mountain fishing trip recently and the wind decided it was time to come out and play which scared all of the fish away from my sad lonely hook. Luckily, I know some people who are actually pretty good at snaring them and they came home with some beauties the other day. I couldn't resist sharing the Lake Eucumbene smoked trout in all of its delicious glory so enjoy and if it gets your mouth watering, it might be time to wet a line! (Hopefully with more success than me!)

Fresh caught trout ready to smoke

Smoked trout

Smoked trout, pear and rocket salad

Smoked trout