European Carp Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips

Introduction

European carp, scientifically known as Cyprinus carpio, is a large freshwater fish that can grow up to 1.2 meters in length and weigh over 60 kilograms. They have a distinctive appearance with large scales, two barbels on each side of their mouth, and a forked tail. Carp are known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, including poor water quality and low oxygen levels.

In Victoria, carp can be found in various freshwater habitats including rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They prefer slow-moving or still waters with soft, muddy bottoms where they can easily forage for food. Carp are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant matter, insects, crustaceans, and small fish.

Fishing for carp can be an exciting experience due to their size and fighting ability. They can be caught using various methods including bait fishing, lure fishing, and fly fishing. Carp are known to be cautious feeders, so patience and stealth are often required when targeting them.

While carp fishing can be enjoyable, it’s important to remember that they are considered a pest species in Victoria. Anglers are encouraged to participate in carp removal efforts to help protect native ecosystems and improve water quality in affected waterways.

What restrictions are in place for European Carp fishing in Melbourne?

European carp are classified as a noxious species in Victoria, which means there are specific rules for handling them:

1. There is no minimum legal size for carp.
2. There is no bag limit for carp.
3. Carp must not be returned to the water alive under any circumstances.
4. Anglers must kill carp immediately upon capture.
5. Dead carp should not be left on the shore at the fishing location.
6. If disposing of dead carp in the water, the carcass must be cut so that it sinks.
7. It is illegal to use live carp as bait or to transport live carp.

How to catch European Carp

To catch European carp in Victoria, anglers can use a variety of methods. Bait fishing is popular, using items such as corn, bread, worms, or dough baits. A simple rig with a sinker and hook baited with corn or bread can be effective. Lure fishing can also work, with soft plastics or small hard-bodied lures imitating their natural prey. Fly fishing for carp, known as ‘sight fishing’, involves spotting the fish and presenting a fly accurately. Use medium to heavy tackle as carp can grow quite large. Fish near structure or in areas with muddy bottoms where carp often feed. Early morning or late evening can be productive times for carp fishing.

What should you fish with for European Carp?

When it comes to fishing for European Carp, 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 baits when fishing for European Carp, but lure fishing is common too.

For the best chances of success, try using Corn 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 5 Baits to Use for European Carp

For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results for European Carp:

• Corn
• Bread
• Garden Worms
• Maggots
• Dough Baits

The Top 3 Lures to Use for European Carp

If you're a fan of lure fishing, make sure to pack these top three performers for European Carp:

• Soft Plastics
• Hard Bodied Lures
• Flies

Where to catch European Carp in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch European Carp. We've compiled a diverse list of locations across Melbourne and Victoria where anglers have reported success in catching European Carp. From popular fishing spots to lesser-known gems, there's a variety of options to explore.

Below, we've highlighted some of the best places to cast your line for European Carp. 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.

More Great Locations

Because there are so many great places to catch European Carp in Victoria, it is hard to give them all the attention they deserve. Here are some more locations where European Carp is a primary target species:

• Natte Yallock
• Old St Arnaud Swimming Pool
• Werribee River
• Yawong Weir

Other places to catch European Carp

While European Carp 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 European Carp 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 European Carp might be found. However, to give you a comprehensive overview, here's a list of additional spots where anglers have reported catching European Carp, even though they may not be the primary target species in these areas:

• Cullulleraine Lake
• Doakes Reserve
• Elmore Weir
• Entrance Lindsay Island
• Fyans Lake
• Germans Road Access Point
• Goulburn Park Guild St
• Goulburn Weir
• James Bridge
• Junction of Goulburn and Murray rivers
• Kennington Reservoir
• Kerang Weir
• La Trobe River
• Laanecoorie Reservoir
• Lake Boga
• Lake Bolac
• Lake Colac
• Lake Eppalock
• Lake Glenmaggie
• Lake Mulwala
• Lake Wendouree
• Lal Lal Reservoir
• Lillydale Lake
• Loddon River at Bridgewater Weir
• Loddon River
• Lower Kiewa River
• Mallee Caravans Campground
• Parolas Bend
• Pykes Creek Reservoir
• Rice's Bridge Barmah
• Rocklands Reservoir
• Tchum Lake
• Thomson River
• Toolondo Reservoir
• Warrandyte Area
• Wimmera River downstream of Horsham

FAQs about European Carp fishing in Melbourne