Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume

Fishing in Bostock Reservoir, Moorabool: Species, Tactics & Local Tips

A significant reservoir in the upper reaches of the Moorabool River, known for its diverse fish population.

Image of Bostock Reservoir

Source: www.goldfieldsguide.com.au

Introduction

Bostock Reservoir is one of the key water bodies in the Moorabool region, playing a crucial role in controlling the flow of the Moorabool River. The reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities for both native and introduced species. Its waters are regularly stocked, making it a reliable destination for anglers. The surrounding landscape provides a picturesque setting for fishing, with a mix of open areas and forested sections around the shoreline. Fishing techniques can vary depending on the target species, with both lure and bait fishing being effective. Anglers should be aware of any access restrictions and follow local regulations regarding boating and shoreline fishing.

About Moorabool

The Moorabool region is a small basin in Victoria, Australia, characterized by the Moorabool River and several reservoirs. The area features a mix of intensive irrigated cropping in the headwaters and open farmland used for grazing and broad acre cropping. With annual rainfall varying from 700-1,000 mm in the headwaters to 500-600 mm in the lower reaches, the region offers diverse fishing opportunities in its rivers and reservoirs.

You can find more information about Moorabool in our Moorabool region guide post.

What should you fish with at Bostock Reservoir?

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

For the best chances of success, try using Garden Worms as bait or fishing with a Hard Bodied Lures. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons at Bostock Reservoir.

The Top 5 Baits to Use at Bostock Reservoir

For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results at Bostock Reservoir:

  • Garden Worms
  • Live Worms
  • Scrubworms
  • Maggots
  • Minnows

The Top 5 Lures to Use at Bostock Reservoir

For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders at Bostock Reservoir:

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

What You'll Catch at Bostock Reservoir

When fishing at Bostock Reservoir, you're likely to reel in:

Image of a Brown Trout

Source: flystream.com

#1 – The Brown Trout

Brown trout (Salmo trutta) is a popular freshwater game fish in Victoria, known for its fighting spirit and delicious taste.

How to catch Brown Trout

In Victoria, Brown trout can be caught using various techniques. Fly fishing is popular, especially with wet flies imitating aquatic insects or dry flies during insect hatches. Lure fishing with small spinners, soft plastics, or hard-bodied lures can also be effective. Bait fishing using worms, maggots, or small fish can work well in some areas. Early morning or late evening fishing often yields the best results. Focus on deep pools, undercut banks, and areas with cover in rivers and streams. In lakes, target drop-offs and weed beds.

To learn more about catching Brown Trout, read more here.
Image of a Rainbow Trout

Source: vrfish.com.au

#2 – The Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is a popular freshwater game fish in Victoria, known for its colorful appearance and fighting spirit.

How to catch Rainbow Trout

To catch rainbow trout in Victoria, anglers can use various techniques. Fly fishing with wet or dry flies is popular in rivers and streams. Lure casting with small spinners, soft plastics, or hard-bodied lures can be effective in both flowing and still waters. Bait fishing with worms, maggots, or PowerBait is often successful, especially in stocked lakes. When fishing in rivers, focus on pools, eddies, and undercut banks where trout may hold. In lakes, try fishing near drop-offs, weed beds, or submerged structures. Early morning and late evening are generally the best times to target rainbow trout.

To learn more about catching Rainbow Trout, read more here.

Less Common Catches

If you're lucky, you might also encounter:

Image of a European Carp

Source: fishesofaustralia.net.au

#3 – The European Carp

European carp is a freshwater fish species considered noxious in Victoria, Australia. Known for its adaptability and hardiness, it has become a prevalent invasive species in many waterways.

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.

To learn more about catching European Carp, read more here.
Image of a Redfin

Source: www.nativefish.asn.au

#4 – The Redfin

Redfin, also known as English perch, is an introduced species in Victoria's freshwater systems. It's a popular target for anglers but considered a pest due to its impact on native fish populations.

How to catch Redfin

Redfin can be caught using a variety of methods in Victoria. Bait fishing with worms, yabbies, or small fish is effective, especially when fishing near structure or drop-offs. Lure fishing is also popular, with soft plastics, small hard-bodied lures, and spinners all proving successful. When lure fishing, try retrieving with short, sharp movements to trigger the Redfin’s predatory instincts. Fishing from boats can be particularly effective, allowing anglers to target deeper water and cover more ground. In warmer months, focus on early mornings or evenings when Redfin are most active.

To learn more about catching Redfin, read more here.

FAQs about Bostock Reservoir

Where is Bostock Reservoir?

Bostock Reservoir is situated in the beautiful Moorabool region. This area is known for its diverse aquatic ecosystem and offers excellent fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers. The region's unique geography and climate contribute to the rich variety of fish species found in its waters, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts throughout the year.

What fish can I catch at Bostock Reservoir?

Bostock Reservoir offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include brown trout and rainbow trout. Additionally, redfin and european carp are also commonly found in the area. Each of these species offers a unique fishing experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler. Remember to check local regulations and seasons for each species before your fishing trip.

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