Australian Salmon Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips

Introduction

Australian Salmon, despite its name, is not related to the Northern Hemisphere salmon. It’s a member of the Arripidae family and is native to southern Australian waters. These fish are known for their sleek, silvery bodies with a bluish-green back and can grow up to 80cm in length.

They are typically found in coastal waters, estuaries, and occasionally venture into freshwater systems. Australian Salmon are schooling fish and often gather in large numbers, especially during their annual migration along the coast. They prefer cooler waters and are more abundant in Victoria during the winter months.

Australian Salmon are predatory fish, feeding mainly on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans. This makes them an exciting target for anglers, as they respond well to both bait and lure fishing techniques. Their aggressive feeding behavior and strong fighting ability when hooked make them a popular sportfish.

In Victoria, Australian Salmon can be caught from both boats and the shore. Popular fishing spots include Port Phillip Bay, Western Port, and along the surf beaches of the Victorian coastline. They are known for their seasonal runs, where large schools can be found chasing baitfish close to the shore, creating exciting fishing opportunities.

What restrictions are in place for Australian Salmon fishing in Melbourne?

In Victoria, Australian Salmon are subject to recreational fishing rules. There is currently no closed season for Australian Salmon. Anglers must have a valid Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence unless exempt. It’s important to check the latest regulations on the Victorian Fisheries Authority website, as rules can change. Always practice responsible fishing and adhere to any local restrictions in specific waterways.

How to catch Australian Salmon

To catch Australian Salmon in Victoria, anglers can use various techniques. Surf fishing from beaches is popular, especially during salmon runs. Use long rods (10-12 feet) for casting distance. Boat fishing is effective in bays and estuaries. Spin fishing with metal lures or soft plastics works well. Bait fishing with pilchards or squid can also be productive. Look for birds diving or baitfish activity to locate schools of salmon. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to fish.

What should you fish with for Australian Salmon?

When it comes to fishing for Australian Salmon, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you can find success with nearly anything when fishing for Australian Salmon, as both baits and lures are equally effective.

For the best chances of success, try using Pilchards as bait or fishing with a Soft Plastics. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons in your fishing area.

The Top 4 Baits to Use for Australian Salmon

Bait fishing for Australian Salmon offers a variety of options, but these four stand out as the most reliable choices:

• Pilchards
• Squid
• Whitebait
• Prawns

The Top 4 Lures to Use for Australian Salmon

Lure fishing for Australian Salmon can be incredibly rewarding, especially when using these four top choices:

• Soft Plastics
• Hard Bodied Lures
• Metal Spoon Lures
• Surface Lures

Where to catch Australian Salmon in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Australian Salmon. We've identified a select few locations that have proven to be especially productive for catching Australian Salmon. These spots are known for their consistent yields and favorable conditions.

Below, we've highlighted some of the best places to cast your line for Australian Salmon. Each location offers its own unique features and challenges, so be sure to research the specific conditions and best practices for each spot before your visit.

Other places to catch Australian Salmon

While Australian Salmon are not the main target at these locations, they can still be caught here. If you're looking for more of a challenge or want to try your luck in different settings, these spots might be worth exploring. Keep in mind that fishing for Australian Salmon in these areas may require different techniques or patience, as they're not as abundant as in the primary locations. However, this can add an exciting element of surprise to your fishing experience.

Additional Secondary Locations

For the sake of brevity, we can't provide detailed descriptions for every location where Australian Salmon might be found. However, to give you a comprehensive overview, here's a list of additional spots where anglers have reported catching Australian Salmon, even though they may not be the primary target species in these areas:

• Queenscliff Pier
• Stony Point Pier

FAQs about Australian Salmon fishing in Melbourne