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

Introduction

Chinook salmon are distinguished by their large size, with some individuals growing up to 1.5 meters in length and weighing over 60 kilograms. They have a blue-green back with silvery sides and white belly, featuring black spots on their upper body and tail. In Victoria, these fish are typically found in cooler waters of rivers and coastal areas.

Originally from the Pacific coast of North America, Chinook salmon were introduced to Victorian waters in the late 19th century. They have adapted well to certain river systems, particularly those flowing into Port Phillip Bay. These fish are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean, and return to freshwater to spawn.

Fishing for Chinook salmon in Victoria is often seasonal, with the best catches occurring during their spawning runs in autumn and winter. They can be found in rivers such as the Yarra, Barwon, and Hopkins, as well as in Port Phillip Bay. Anglers often target them using techniques like trolling, spin fishing, and fly fishing.

When fishing for Chinook salmon, it’s important to use strong gear as these fish are known for their powerful fights. Popular methods include using lures that mimic small fish or using bait such as pilchards or whitebait. Always check local regulations and fish responsibly to ensure the sustainability of this prized species.

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

Chinook salmon fishing in Victoria is subject to various regulations:

1. Size limits vary depending on the water body and river section. Some waters may have no minimum size.
2. Bag limits also vary by location.
3. These fish cannot be filleted in or on Victorian waters. They must be kept whole or in carcass form until away from the water.
4. Filleting is allowed on cleaning tables at boat ramps.
5. A closed season applies in certain rivers, river sections, and streams, during which Chinook salmon cannot be taken or possessed.
6. For specific regulations, anglers should refer to the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s trout and salmon regulations.

How to catch Chinook Salmon

To catch Chinook salmon in Victoria:

1. Trolling: Use lures or bait behind a moving boat in rivers or bays.
2. Spin fishing: Cast and retrieve lures from the shore or a boat.
3. Fly fishing: Use flies that imitate small fish or insects in rivers.
4. Bait fishing: Use pilchards, whitebait, or other small fish as bait.
5. Focus on deeper pools in rivers or areas where rivers enter bays.
6. Fish during early morning or late evening for best results.
7. Use strong gear, including heavy line and leaders, to handle these powerful fish.

What should you fish with for Chinook Salmon?

When it comes to fishing for Chinook Salmon, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for this species, you will have a bit more success with lures when fishing for Chinook Salmon, but bait fishing is common too.

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 Chinook Salmon

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

• Pilchards
• Whitebait
• Minnows
• Small Fish

The Top 6 Lures to Use for Chinook Salmon

For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 6 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders for Chinook Salmon:

• Soft Plastics
• Hard Bodied Lures
• Spinnerbaits
• Minnow Lures
• Trolling Lures
• Flies

Where to catch Chinook Salmon in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Chinook Salmon. We've identified a select few locations that have proven to be especially productive for catching Chinook 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 Chinook 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.

FAQs about Chinook Salmon fishing in Melbourne