Golden Ponds in Baldivis has long been a favourite spot for Perth families keen to introduce the kids to fishing in a relaxed, easy-going setting. Around 30 minutes south of the CBD, this sprawling property is set on about 100 acres of lakes and gardens, so it feels like a proper day out in the country without a big drive.
These days, Golden Ponds focuses on family-friendly catch and release fishing. Instead of taking home your catch for dinner, the fun is all about the thrill of the bite, the excitement of reeling a fish in, a quick photo, and then gently returning it to the water. It’s a lovely way to teach kids about respecting wildlife and caring for the fish and their environment, while still giving them the satisfaction of landing one.
The ponds are stocked with a variety of coarse fish species, including silver perch, black bream, carp and koi. Many of the ponds have fishing platforms which make it easier for children and less experienced anglers to fish comfortably and safely right at the water’s edge. The whole atmosphere is calm and unhurried – it’s the kind of place where you can sit back, cast a line and really slow down for a few hours.
Fishing at Golden Ponds is suitable for complete beginners through to keen anglers. Kids don’t need any previous experience; in fact, the stocked ponds make it a great place for them to try fishing for the very first time. Parents and grandparents can help bait hooks, cast lines and cheer the kids on when they feel that first tug. It’s the sort of simple, screen-free activity that works for almost any age, from little ones right through to teens and older family members.
You do need to bring your own gear these days. Families should pack their own rods, tackle and bait, and use barbless hooks (or crimp the barbs down with pliers) to make releasing the fish easier and safer. A landing net and an old towel are handy for handling fish gently before they go back into the water. Popular baits include things you may already have at home, like sweetcorn kernels, bread, small pieces of polony, prawns or chicken.
There isn’t a lot of natural shade around some of the ponds, so it’s worth being prepared on hot or sunny days. Many families bring hats, sunscreen, camp chairs or a picnic rug, and even a small beach umbrella or gazebo to make a cosy base for the day. With plenty of space to spread out, you can easily set yourselves up for a relaxed morning or afternoon visit.
Golden Ponds also offers coin-operated BBQs that are available exclusively for customers, which is perfect if you want to turn your fishing session into a simple family picnic. While the fishing is the main drawcard, the wider property is also home to accommodation and a fun Supa Golf course, so you can easily make a bigger outing of your visit, especially with older kids or teens.
For a gentle water adventure, families can hire canoes at Golden Ponds for $10 per hour, with life jackets included. The calm ponds are ideal for all skill levels, offering a peaceful way to explore the surroundings, spot birdlife, and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s a relaxing activity perfect for a quiet paddle or a bit of exercise, easily arranged at the Big Green Shed.
Groups can enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Golden Ponds pontoon boat, which accommodates up to 13 passengers for $75 per hour. It’s a fantastic option for families or friends to relax on the water, taking in the scenery without the effort of paddling. Bookings are essential, and a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket is required to operate the boat, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The bonus of visiting Golden Ponds is having The Ponds Bistro right on site, making it easy to turn your fishing or paddling session into a full family day out. Run by the team behind King Road Brewing Co, this relaxed, family‑friendly venue offers hearty meals, kids’ favourites and plenty of space to spread out. Children will love the epic pirate‑themed Playground, complete with a ghost ship “haunted” by Captain Skullbeard and his skeleton crew, plus a jumping castle and outdoor games to keep them busy while you enjoy a meal or drink. With roaming peacocks, indoor seating with highchairs, kids’ colouring and regular specials and school holiday activities, The Ponds Bistro adds a fun, convenient dining option just a short stroll from all the action at Golden Ponds.
Golden Ponds is open for fishing seven days a week from 9am to 4.30pm, with last entry for fishing at 3.30pm. It is open all year round, closing only on a few key public holidays including Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. At the entrance, look for the big green shed on the left-hand side of the main gate – this is the new office where you’ll go for access, payments, bookings, check-ins and check-outs.
Current fishing prices reflect the move to an all-day, catch-and-release style experience. Adults are $20, children aged 7 to 17 years are $10, and children 6 and under are free. There is also a family pass available for 2 adults and 2 children (7–17 years) which offers better value for families. Once you’re in, you’re welcome to spend a few hours or settle in for most of the day within the opening times.
You’ll find Golden Ponds at 355 Mundijong Road, Baldivis, making it an easy drive from many parts of Perth’s southern suburbs. For families looking for a relaxed, outdoorsy activity where the focus is on time together rather than screens, Golden Ponds is a great option. With gentle, well-stocked ponds, simple facilities and a peaceful setting, it’s an ideal place to create those classic “first fish” memories with the kids.
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life” has enjoyed an exciting name change in 2021, as “The Chef’s Ex-wife” embarks on new adventures with Simply PERTHfect. Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA, as well as brunching, tapas or something a little fancy in equal measures. With her son “Little Chef” in tow, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
