Flathead Gudgeon Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips

Introduction

The Flathead gudgeon (Philypnodon grandiceps) is a small freshwater fish with a distinctive flattened head and large mouth. They typically grow to around 10-15 cm in length, with a mottled brown or grey coloration that provides excellent camouflage in their preferred habitats. These fish have large pectoral fins and a rounded tail, which helps them maneuver effectively in various water conditions.

Flathead gudgeons are found in a wide range of freshwater environments across Victoria, including slow-flowing rivers, streams, lakes, and billabongs. They prefer areas with plenty of cover, such as submerged logs, rocks, and aquatic vegetation. These fish are well-adapted to both clear and turbid waters, and can tolerate a range of temperatures and oxygen levels.

As bottom-dwellers, Flathead gudgeons spend most of their time near the substrate, where they search for food and shelter. They are opportunistic feeders with an omnivorous diet, consuming small invertebrates, insect larvae, crustaceans, and occasionally plant matter. Their feeding behavior makes them an important part of the aquatic ecosystem, helping to control populations of small prey species.

While not typically targeted by anglers, Flathead gudgeons can be caught using light tackle and small baits or lures. They are often encountered while fishing for other species and can provide an enjoyable challenge for those interested in catching smaller native fish. Their presence in a waterway is often indicative of a healthy ecosystem, as they are sensitive to environmental changes and pollution.

What restrictions are in place for Flathead Gudgeon fishing in Melbourne?

Fishing for Flathead gudgeon in Victoria is subject to the following rules and restrictions: There is no minimum legal size limit for this species, allowing anglers to keep fish of any size. However, a bag limit of 40 fish per person per day is in place to ensure sustainable populations. Anglers should always check for any local or temporary restrictions that may apply to specific waterways. It’s important to handle these small fish carefully if practicing catch and release.

How to catch Flathead Gudgeon

To catch Flathead gudgeon in Victoria, use light tackle and small hooks suited for their size. Fish close to the bottom in areas with cover such as submerged logs, rocks, or vegetation. Small baits like worms or maggots work well, as do tiny soft plastics or small flies. Use a light sinker to keep your bait near the bottom. Fish slowly and be prepared for subtle bites. Early morning or late afternoon are often productive times. Consider using a small bobber or float to detect gentle bites from these bottom-dwelling fish.

What should you fish with for Flathead Gudgeon?

When it comes to fishing for Flathead Gudgeon, 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 Flathead Gudgeon, as both baits and lures are equally effective.

For the best chances of success, try using Live Worms 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 6 Baits to Use for Flathead Gudgeon

For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 6 options that have consistently produced results for Flathead Gudgeon:

• Live Worms
• Scrubworms
• Garden Worms
• Maggots
• Shrimp
• Earthworms

The Top 5 Lures to Use for Flathead Gudgeon

For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders for Flathead Gudgeon:

• Soft Plastics
• Flies
• Curl Tail Grubs
• Micro Jigs
• Wet Flies

Where to catch Flathead Gudgeon in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Flathead Gudgeon. While we couldn't pinpoint specific hotspots, Flathead Gudgeon can be found throughout Victoria. We recommend consulting local fishing authorities or experienced anglers for the most up-to-date information on prime fishing locations.

When planning your fishing trip for Flathead Gudgeon, consider factors such as seasonality, local regulations, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of success.

Other places to catch Flathead Gudgeon

We've identified one additional location where Flathead Gudgeon can be caught, although it's not the primary target species there. Keep in mind that fishing for Flathead Gudgeon 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.

FAQs about Flathead Gudgeon fishing in Melbourne