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

Introduction

Morwong, belonging to the family Latridae, are bottom-dwelling fish found in coastal waters around Victoria. They have elongated bodies with a small mouth and distinctive barbels on their chin. Morwong species can vary in color, but many have silver or reddish hues with dark vertical bands.

These fish typically inhabit rocky reefs and areas with a mix of sand and reef structures. They prefer depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to about 100 meters. Morwong are known to be opportunistic feeders, consuming small crustaceans, mollusks, and other bottom-dwelling organisms.

Morwong are prized by anglers for their firm, white flesh and mild flavor. They can be caught year-round but are more commonly targeted during warmer months. Fishing for morwong often requires patience and precision, as they tend to stay close to structure and can be finicky biters.

When fishing for morwong, it’s important to use appropriate gear and techniques. Light to medium tackle is usually sufficient, and using a paternoster rig or running sinker rig can be effective. Morwong are known to be bottom feeders, so keeping your bait close to the seafloor is crucial for success.

What restrictions are in place for Morwong fishing in Melbourne?

When fishing for morwong in Victoria, anglers must adhere to the following rules: The minimum legal size for all morwong species is 23cm. There is a combined bag limit of 5 fish for one or more species of morwong. This means you can catch up to 5 morwong in total, regardless of the specific species. Always check for updates to fishing regulations before heading out, as rules can change.

How to catch Morwong

To catch morwong in Victoria, focus on rocky reef areas and mixed sand-reef habitats. Use light to medium tackle with a paternoster rig or running sinker rig. Fish close to the bottom, as morwong are bottom feeders. Patience is key, as they can be slow to bite. Try fishing during incoming tides or around dawn and dusk for better results. Use small, strong hooks and ensure your bait is securely attached, as morwong can be nibble bait off the hook.

What should you fish with for Morwong?

When it comes to fishing for Morwong, 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 Morwong, but lure fishing is common too.

For the best chances of success, try using Prawns 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 7 Baits to Use for Morwong

For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 7 options that have consistently produced results for Morwong:

• Prawns
• Squid
• Pilchards
• Whitebait
• Pipis
• Mussels
• Sandworms

The Top 4 Lures to Use for Morwong

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

• Soft Plastics
• Jigs
• Metal Blades
• Micro Jigs

Where to catch Morwong in Melbourne

Anglers in Melbourne and Victoria have numerous opportunities to catch Morwong. While we couldn't pinpoint specific hotspots, Morwong 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 Morwong, consider factors such as seasonality, local regulations, and recent fishing reports to increase your chances of success.

FAQs about Morwong fishing in Melbourne