Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Victoria (Australia)
Victoria Fishing Spots – Looking to cast a line in the beautiful state of Victoria? From crystal-clear mountain streams to serene lakes, there are plenty of excellent fishing spots waiting to be discovered. Here are a few great sportfishing spots in Victoria.
Cobungra River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A River of Adventure: The Cobungra
The Cobungra River, renowned for its beauty and challenging fishing, descends from the slopes of Mount Hotham, carving a path through the heart of the Victorian Alps. This fast-flowing, smaller river boasts crystal-clear, snow-fed waters, which meander through tussocky alpine meadows, giving way to grazing land interspersed with eucalypts, wattle, and tea tree as it approaches the Mitta Mitta River at Anglers Rest.
A River Featured on Film (Victoria Fishing Spots)
The Cobungra River gained fame when it was featured in the fly-fishing documentary series “A River Somewhere,” showcasing its pristine beauty and challenging fishing opportunities. The upper reaches of the Cobungra River, isolated and remote, require a hike to access, making it an appealing destination for adventure-seeking anglers.
Diverse Access and Fishing Techniques
Some anglers choose to hike down from Mount Hotham to access the upper reaches, while others find better access in the lower reaches, though a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. Both brown and rainbow trout populate the Cobungra River, attracting anglers seeking a variety of fishing techniques. Fly fishing, bait fishing, and lure casting all prove successful in these waters, ensuring a rewarding and unforgettable fishing experience.
Crooked River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Rugged Riverbed: The Crooked River
The Crooked River, with its rocky bottom of boulders, rubble, and rocks, presents a unique and challenging fishing environment. During the summer months, much of the riverbed’s rubble is exposed along the edges, providing easy walking and wading access to predominantly shallow runs.
Accessing the Crooked River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Anglers can reach the Crooked River via the Dargo High Plains Road, traveling through the historic remnants of the Grant township, and then following McMillans Track down to Talbotville. This scenic journey through the Victorian Alps leads to a river brimming with fishing opportunities.
Diverse Fishing Opportunities
The Crooked River boasts good numbers of small wild brown trout, attracting anglers seeking a rewarding and challenging fishing experience. The river’s rocky bottom, shallow runs, and diverse habitat make it a prime destination for finesse techniques, requiring anglers to adapt their methods to the unique conditions.
Dargo River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Steep and Scenic River: The Dargo
The Dargo River, a relatively narrow stream, descends from forested mountain country towards farmland, carving a path through a diverse landscape. The river’s steep gradient creates a series of shallow riffles and runs interspersed with modest pools, offering unique fishing opportunities.
Access and Terrain
Access to the Dargo River is good in the lower reaches, where the gradient is less steep. However, venturing further upstream requires a four-wheel drive vehicle, as the terrain becomes more challenging. Despite the rugged conditions, the Dargo River attracts anglers with its healthy population of wild brown trout.
Fly Fishing and Finesse Techniques
The Dargo River is a prime destination for fly fishers and finesse bait fishers. The river’s diverse habitat and abundant trout require anglers to use precise techniques and understand the river’s nuances to succeed. Upper Dargo Road runs close to the river for 20 kilometers upstream of the town, providing convenient access to this stretch of water. The Dargo River, with its challenging terrain and rewarding fishing, offers an adventurous and memorable experience for dedicated anglers.
Dartmouth Lake (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Vast and Deep Reservoir: Lake Dartmouth
Lake Dartmouth, a deep and expansive water storage, stretches 40 kilometers from the retaining wall back to its furthest point on the Mitta Mitta River. Surrounded by steep, forested mountains that can be blanketed in snow during the cooler months, this reservoir offers a breathtaking landscape and unique fishing opportunities.
A Variety of Fish Species
Lake Dartmouth is home to healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout, which are self-sustaining thanks to wild spawning activity in the many feeder creeks. This reservoir also boasts a special native fish, the Macquarie perch, adding to the diversity of the fishery.
Access and Fishing Methods (Victoria Fishing Spots)
The main launching point for Lake Dartmouth is located at the Lake Dartmouth Boat Ramp, which includes picnic facilities. The vast majority of trout caught in Lake Dartmouth are taken by trolling, especially during the winter months. Anglers can also access the top of the lake using a four-wheel drive vehicle, though this requires local knowledge and is best suited for experienced and adventurous anglers.
Bank Fishing and Stocked Waters
Anglers can also enjoy bank fishing, using baits near the boat ramp or near the township at Lake Banimboola, also known as the Dartmouth Pondage. This pondage is stocked annually with brown and rainbow trout. Water levels in the pondage fluctuate rapidly, and a designated fishing area is available. With its diverse fish populations, scenic surroundings, and multiple access points, Lake Dartmouth offers a rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.
Delatite River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A River’s Journey: The Delatite
The Delatite River carves a path through the steep, forested slopes behind Mount Buller, ultimately emptying into Lake Eildon. This popular Mansfield river boasts easy access from public roads, attracting anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Upstream Beauty: Rapids and Trout
Upstream from Merrijig, the Delatite’s character shifts. Native forest gives way to a landscape of cleared banks, willows, and native trees. The upper reaches are a tapestry of rapids, cascades, riffles, and small pools, creating a picturesque waterway teeming with trout. These dynamic waters provide ideal habitat for the fish, making it a prime spot for anglers.
Downstream Depth: Runs and Pools (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Downstream of Merrijig, the river’s nature changes again. The runs and riffles become deeper, offering even more promising fish habitat. As the river approaches Lake Eildon, the channel opens wider, with deeper pools forming along its course.
Water Levels and Fishing
While low flows during dry years can present challenges for fishing in the lower reaches, high lake levels often create favorable conditions for catching larger trout. The Delatite’s lower stretches offer a diverse mix of species, including brown and rainbow trout, along with Murray cod. All fishing methods are effective in these waters, ensuring an enjoyable and rewarding experience for anglers.
Eildon Lake (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Victorian Gem: Lake Eildon
Lake Eildon, nestled in Victoria’s northeast, is a hub for outdoor adventures. This man-made reservoir serves as a vital part of the Goulburn catchment and Victoria’s irrigation system, providing water for agriculture downstream. With over 500 kilometers of shoreline, the lake boasts a vast landscape, featuring dense forests on its southern shores and grassy farmland bordering much of its northern side.
A Flourishing Fishery
For many years, Lake Eildon’s fishing scene was dominated by trout and redfin. However, in recent decades, extensive stocking efforts have transformed it into an outstanding mixed fishery. Anglers can now pursue trophy Murray cod and golden perch, adding excitement to the already diverse fishing opportunities.
Access and Accommodation (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Lake Eildon is easily accessible, with multiple launching facilities catering to boaters. The Alliance ramp near the dam wall, Jerusalem Creek, and Gough’s Bay offer convenient access to the lake’s waters. Smaller, seasonal ramps also exist, depending on the water level. Several marinas house Victoria’s largest fleet of houseboats, many of which are available for rental, offering the perfect on-water holiday experience.
Year-Round Fishing Paradise
Lake Eildon has become arguably Victoria’s best big Murray cod water. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the thrill of pursuing this sought-after species year-round, as the three-month closed season for Murray cod does not apply. Whether trolling, bait fishing, or casting, a variety of methods are effective, offering something for every angler throughout the year.
Eppalock Lake (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Reservoir of Resources: Lake Eppalock
Lake Eppalock, located on the Campaspe River near Bendigo in central Victoria, serves as a vital water source for the region. This reservoir, with its diverse recreational opportunities and stunning scenery, attracts visitors seeking a tranquil escape.
A Reservoir’s History
Lake Eppalock was constructed between 1960 and 1964 to provide irrigation from the Campaspe River and supply water to Bendigo. This reservoir, with its strategic location and vital role in water management, plays a crucial role in the region’s economy and well-being.
Access and Information (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Boating Victoria ramp camera photos, automatically updated every five minutes, provide an indication of the ramp and car park’s busyness. These images, displayed at a resolution that does not reveal boat ramp user identities, help visitors plan their trips.
Water Supply and Operations
Lake Eppalock supplies irrigation and stock and domestic water to the Campaspe Irrigation district and urban supplies to Bendigo, Heathcote, and more recently Ballarat. In years of plentiful water resources, water from Lake Eppalock is used to supplement the Waranga Western Channel, which supplies customers in the Rochester and Pyramid-Boort irrigation areas.
Recreational Opportunities
Lake Eppalock offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including caravan parks, picnic areas, and public boat ramps. Camping is permitted only in caravan parks. The Kimbolton Recreational Area features all-access toilet facilities and an all-access barbecue and seating. No fires are permitted on the foreshore, and visitors are asked to take out all rubbish.
A Unique Structure (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Geologically and topographically, Lake Eppalock is an excellent dam site. The curved embankment, 700 meters long, stands 47 meters high and contains over 800,000 cubic meters of earth and rock. Three spillways cater for overflow: a concreted main spillway that runs down to the Campaspe River and two higher grassed spillways for exceptionally large floods.
Safety and Navigation
Normal boating operations currently apply as water levels are above 180 mAHD. Safety restrictions and trigger levels were determined following extensive consultation with Marine Safety Victoria, emergency agencies, Victoria Water Police, and the local community. Boat users are asked to be aware of the dangers associated with low water levels and abide by all safety restrictions. Lake Eppalock, with its diverse recreational opportunities, stunning scenery, and commitment to environmental protection, offers a memorable experience for visitors seeking a tranquil escape.
Gibbo River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Mountain Stream: The Gibbo River
The Gibbo River carves a path through tall, forested mountains, creating a scenic and challenging fishing destination. The river’s moderate fish cover, provided by undercut banks, offers a haven for numerous small brown and rainbow trout.
Ideal Fishing Conditions (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Anglers find the best fishing conditions in the Gibbo River before the water becomes too warm in summer, when flow can become low. The river’s pristine waters and diverse habitat provide a rewarding fishing experience.
Lower Reaches and Access
The lower reaches of the Gibbo River are now inundated by Lake Dartmouth, making access by boat more convenient. The steep valley through which the river flows makes reaching these lower reaches by foot challenging. Despite these obstacles, the Gibbo River continues to attract anglers seeking a unique and adventurous fishing experience.
Golden Beach and Paradise Beach (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Coastal Gem: Golden Beach
Golden Beach, a charming community located about 36 kilometers from Sale, offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and fishing opportunities. This hidden gem attracts anglers seeking a variety of species, including salmon, mulloway, snapper, and sharks.
A Popular Fishing Destination
Golden Beach is renowned for its annual surf fishing competition, which typically takes place over the Australia Day weekend. This popular event draws locals and visitors alike, showcasing the area’s fishing prowess. Camping is a popular way to experience Golden Beach, with numerous foreshore camping areas available along Shoreline Drive. Direct access to the beach is provided via pathways across the sand dunes from these camping areas.
Night Fishing for Sharks (Victoria Fishing Spots)
For those seeking a thrilling fishing experience, night fishing is recommended for the best chance of catching sharks. The beach’s diverse marine life and abundant fishing opportunities make it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels.
Paradise Beach: A Tranquil Retreat
Paradise Beach, located east of Golden Beach, offers a campground for those looking to extend their stay. This tranquil beach provides a serene escape, with its pristine sands and stunning coastal views. Both Golden Beach and Paradise Beach offer a unique blend of fishing, camping, and coastal relaxation, making them ideal destinations for those seeking a memorable getaway.
Goulburn River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
The Upper Goulburn: A Mountain Stream
The Goulburn River flows for 50 kilometers above Lake Eildon, winding its way from Woods Point through forested mountains, with cleared areas between the townships of Kevington and Jamieson. The river traverses a landscape of native forests interspersed with patches of farmland, particularly in its lower reaches. This typical mountain stream features fast-flowing waters and provides excellent fishing opportunities.
Access and Fishing Opportunities
Access to the Upper Goulburn is readily available for 26 kilometers from the Jamieson-Woods Point Road up to Knockwood. Four-wheel drive tracks lead to the upper reaches. The Upper Goulburn is home to an abundance of brown trout, with some rainbow trout, averaging 150 grams and reaching a maximum of 1.5 kilograms. Big Murray cod, particularly in the lower reaches, add to the diversity of fishing opportunities. Fly fishing, bait fishing, and lure casting are all effective methods for catching these fish.
The Goulburn Below Eildon Pondage: A Trout Paradise (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Fishing below Eildon Pondage can be spectacular, especially during the early September trout season opening. The Goulburn is stocked with “stonkers” – large rainbow trout that are ex-broodfish. This section of the river offers a variety of fishing opportunities.
Access and Conditions
The Goulburn River has convenient roadside access points extending to Alexandra. Anglers should exercise caution, as the river can rise suddenly due to water releases from Lake Eildon. Wading in high flows is particularly risky.
Diverse Fishing Opportunities
High flows often restrict anglers to backwaters, where trout congregate. When flows are lower, fly fishing, lure casting, and bait fishing prove successful in this wide and relatively deep river. Further downstream, as the river meanders through farmland, bankside vegetation gives way to scattered foliage. This stretch is primarily brown trout water with some rainbows and occasional Murray cod, becoming more likely further downstream. Trout also migrate into this section from tributaries and downstream from the pondage. Bait fishing, spinning, and fly fishing are effective methods in this reach.
A Premier Trout Fishery
The Goulburn River below Eildon Pondage is considered one of Victoria’s premier trout fisheries. Several road bridges, including “The Breakaway” and Gilmores Bridge on the Goulburn Valley Highway near Thornton, provide excellent access. Renowned fishing spots include Rennie, South Bends, Valley, Eildon Waters, and Point Hill, all offering good bank fishing.
Howqua River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
The Howqua River: History and Beauty
The Howqua River, steeped in history and boasting stunning scenery, rises in the heart of steep forest before flowing through a wider, cleared valley, ultimately reaching Lake Eildon. This picturesque river offers a variety of fishing opportunities throughout its course.
Upper Reaches: Rapids and Pools
In its upper reaches above Sheepyard Flat, the Howqua River narrows to a width of around eight meters. Downstream, as the forest gives way to hilly farmland, the river widens to up to 20 meters. This diverse landscape, encompassing rapids, cascades, shallow riffles, and pools, creates a range of fishing opportunities.
Access and Challenges (Victoria Fishing Spots)
The Howqua River is accessible to anglers via several routes. From Merrijig to Sheepyard Flat, the Grammar School Road provides access to good camping areas and fishing spots. A walking track connecting Running Creek to Tobacco Flat offers another route, though numerous river crossings without bridges can make passage difficult during high flows. Vehicle access is also available for six kilometers upstream from Lake Eildon via the Howqua River Road.
A Thriving Fishery
Throughout its length, the Howqua River boasts a healthy population of smaller brown and rainbow trout. Anglers can find success using a variety of methods, including fly fishing, bait fishing, and lure casting. The river’s diverse habitat and abundant trout make it a rewarding destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Hume Lake (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Destination for All: Lake Hume
Lake Hume, a vast and impressive body of water held back by an awe-inspiring dam wall, offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities for visitors. Located just a 15-minute drive from Albury Wodonga, this lake provides a convenient and accessible escape for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a memorable fishing experience.
Thrilling Water Sports
For the adventurous, Lake Hume offers a variety of water sports, including wakeboarding, water skiing, tube-riding, and stand-up paddleboarding. These activities, enjoyed against the backdrop of the lake’s stunning scenery, provide an exhilarating experience for those seeking a rush of adrenaline.
A Tranquil Escape (Victoria Fishing Spots)
For those who prefer a gentler pace, the lake’s foreshore offers a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic, fire up a barbecue, and connect with friends and family. The mountain views, stretching across the horizon, provide a breathtaking backdrop for a relaxing day by the water.
A Fishing Paradise
Fishing enthusiasts have been casting off into Lake Hume for generations, seeking a rewarding catch. Anglers can try their luck hooking one of the local freshwater specialties, including Murray cod, rainbow trout, redfin, and golden perch. Before casting a line, anglers must obtain a Victorian Fishing License, which covers the entirety of Lake Hume, encompassing both New South Wales and Victoria. Lake Hume, with its diverse recreational opportunities, stunning scenery, and abundant fish populations, offers a memorable experience for visitors seeking a tranquil escape or an adventurous challenge.
Inverloch (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Coastal Haven: Inverloch
Inverloch, a charming coastal town nestled on the shores of Anderson Inlet, offers a diverse range of activities for visitors seeking a tranquil escape or an adventurous getaway. The protected waters of Anderson Inlet make this town a favorite holiday spot, attracting swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and surfers during the warmer months. The surrounding walks and drives make Inverloch a popular year-round destination.
Exploring the Waters
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports at Inverloch’s pristine beaches. The still waters of Anderson Inlet make wakeboarding or windsurfing a breeze, while the surf beach is a great spot to introduce children or beginners to surfing. For experienced surfers, Eagles Nest offers a challenging and rewarding experience. Charter a boat or take a cruise to enjoy Inverloch from the water, exploring its diverse coastline and marine life.
Festivals and Events (Victoria Fishing Spots)
Time your visit to coincide with the Labour Day long weekend and join in the fun and festivities of the Inverloch Jazz Festival. In December, the Sounds of Summer, a family-friendly music, food, and wine festival, offers a vibrant and entertaining experience. These events, showcasing the town’s vibrant culture and community spirit, add to the allure of Inverloch.
Walking and Cycling Trails
Explore the many boardwalks and coastal trails to discover Inverloch’s beautiful natural surroundings. Wander down the kid-friendly Screw Creek Nature Walk to explore the marshlands, leading to gorgeous views of Anderson Inlet. For a breath of fresh sea air, stroll along the cliffs of the George Bass Coastal Walk or get the legs pumping on Victoria’s only coastal rail trail, the Bass Coast Rail Trail.
A Scenic Drive: Bunurong Coastal Drive
Inverloch is a perfect stopover point for those driving from Phillip Island and continuing on to Wilsons Promontory. Enjoy the spectacular views of Bass Strait from the cliff tops along the 12-kilometer Bunurong Coastal Drive, stretching between Inverloch and Cape Paterson. The drive passes numerous natural attractions, including Eagles Nest, Twin Reefs, Shack Bay, The Caves, and Flat Rocks, offering a diverse range of landscapes to explore. Inverloch, with its diverse activities, stunning scenery, and welcoming atmosphere, offers a memorable experience for visitors seeking a coastal escape.
Jamieson River (Victoria Fishing Spots)
A Mountain Stream: The Jamieson River
The Jamieson River winds its way through forested hills for much of its length, with only the lower 16 kilometers traversing farmland, offering easy access to anglers. Upstream, thick forest and limited four-wheel drive access restrict anglers to a few select tracks.
A Wild and Winding Path (Victoria Fishing Spots)
The Jamieson River exhibits the characteristics of a typical mountain stream, averaging 10 meters in width. The water rushes over riffles, flows through runs, pools, and gravel beds, creating a dynamic and beautiful environment. The river’s remote location and challenging terrain lend an air of adventure to fishing trips.
A Diverse Fishery
The Jamieson River is home to both brown and rainbow trout, with a few Murray cod present in its lower reaches where it joins the Goulburn River at Jamieson. Despite its challenging access, the Jamieson River attracts dedicated anglers who seek a pristine and wild fishing experience.