The Bemm River is located approximately 450 kilometres east of Melbourne in East Gippsland, Victoria, along the Princes Highway in the direction of Lakes Entrance and Marlo. The river connects to Sydenham Inlet, and access to this inlet is a central feature of the area for water-based recreation. The surrounding landscape is characterised by extensive, largely undisturbed forest, and the region has developed a reputation not only for fishing but also for its natural environment and the opportunities it offers to explore by various means on the water.

Boating and paddling infrastructure is centred along the foreshore, where two boat ramps serve as launch points — one at Luderick Point and another at Fingerling Jetty. Parking and trailer facilities are available at these sites, though they can experience pressure during peak periods. The foreshore management plan has identified improving the efficiency and safety of these launch facilities as an ongoing priority.

The river and Sydenham Inlet are well regarded for estuarine fishing, particularly for black bream and estuary perch, and the area regularly hosts kayak fishing tournaments including the Hobie Bemm River Kayak Bream Tournament. Paddlers visiting during tournament weekends should expect increased boat traffic on the water. The combination of river and inlet environments offers varied paddling terrain within a relatively compact area, set against a backdrop of coastal forest.