By Archer Hume
Upper Yarra River Fishing Guide
The section of the Yarra River above Warburton, known for its forested surroundings and cool waters.
Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Fishing in La Trobe River, La Trobe: Species, Tactics & Local Tips
The main waterway of the region, flowing for over 80 km and discharging into Lake Wellington.
Source: www.tripadvisor.com.au
table of contents
Introduction
The La Trobe River originates from several high rainfall areas, resulting in a reliable flow regime. The upper reaches, particularly upstream of Noojee, offer excellent fishing opportunities for brown trout and small river blackfish. These areas feature fast-flowing riffles, good pools, and clear water, providing ideal habitats for fish. However, the middle and lower reaches flowing through farmland are in poorer condition due to agricultural impacts. Anglers should focus on the upper sections for the best fishing experience, using techniques such as fly fishing or lure casting for trout. When targeting river blackfish, night fishing with bait can be particularly effective.
About La Trobe
The La Trobe region extends from the Strzelecki Ranges to the Great Dividing Range in Victoria, Australia. It features a diverse landscape of flat farmland, forested mountains, and hills, with the La Trobe River as its central waterway. The region offers varied fishing opportunities, with brown trout and river blackfish common in tributaries, while European carp have established in lowland waters.
You can find more information about La Trobe in our La Trobe region guide post.
What should you fish with at La Trobe River?
When it comes to fishing at La Trobe River, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at La Trobe River 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 La Trobe River.
The Top 5 Baits to Use at La Trobe River
For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results at La Trobe River:
- Garden Worms
- Live Worms
- Maggots
- Scrubworms
- Minnows
The Top 5 Lures to Use at La Trobe River
For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders at La Trobe River:
- Soft Plastics
- Hard Bodied Lures
- Flies
- Minnow Lures
- Spinnerbaits
What You'll Catch at La Trobe River
When fishing at La Trobe River, you're likely to reel in:
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.
Source: vrfish.com.au
#2 – The River Blackfish
The River blackfish is a freshwater fish native to south-eastern Australia, known for its dark coloration and elongated body.
How to catch River Blackfish
To catch River blackfish, focus on fishing during dusk, night, or early morning when they are most active. Use light tackle and fish close to structure such as fallen logs, undercut banks, or dense vegetation. Bait fishing with worms or small yabbies can be effective, as can slowly retrieving small soft plastics or hard-bodied lures. Be patient and persistent, as these fish can be shy and require a delicate approach.
To learn more about catching River Blackfish, read more here.Less Common Catches
If you're lucky, you might also encounter:
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.FAQs about La Trobe River
Where is La Trobe River?
La Trobe River is situated in the beautiful La Trobe 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 La Trobe River?
La Trobe River offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include brown trout and river blackfish. Additionally, short-finned eel 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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