By Archer Hume
Snowy River Fishing Guide
The Snowy River is the main waterway in the region, flowing from the NSW border through various landscapes to Orbost.
Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Fishing in Lake Eildon, Goulburn: Species, Tactics & Local Tips
A large, man-made lake known for its excellent fishing and recreational opportunities.
Source: www.victoriashighcountry.com.au
table of contents
Introduction
Lake Eildon is a premier fishing destination in the Goulburn region, offering anglers a chance to target both native and introduced species. The lake’s diverse habitat includes submerged timber, rocky outcrops, and deep channels, providing ideal conditions for various fish species. Anglers can fish from boats or the shoreline, with trolling and bait fishing being popular techniques. The lake’s water levels can fluctuate significantly, which can affect fishing conditions. Best times to fish are often early morning or late evening, particularly during the warmer months. The lake is regularly stocked with native fish species to maintain populations.
About Goulburn
The Goulburn region extends 200 km from steep hills and mountains in the Hume Range and Great Dividing Range northward through the Murray Plain. It features diverse aquatic habitats, from clear, cold mountain streams to larger rivers and lakes. The region offers excellent fishing opportunities for both native and introduced species, with Lake Eildon and the Goulburn River being popular destinations.
You can find more information about Goulburn in our Goulburn region guide post.
What should you fish with at Lake Eildon?
When it comes to fishing at Lake Eildon, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at Lake Eildon you can find success with nearly anything, as both baits and lures are equally effective.
For the best chances of success, try using Small Fish as bait or fishing with a Spinnerbaits. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons at Lake Eildon.
The Top 5 Baits to Use at Lake Eildon
For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results at Lake Eildon:
- Scrubworms
- Minnows
- Small Fish
- Live Worms
- Yabbies
The Top 5 Lures to Use at Lake Eildon
For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders at Lake Eildon:
- Soft Plastics
- Hard Bodied Lures
- Spinnerbaits
- Diving Crankbaits
- Minnow Lures
What You'll Catch at Lake Eildon
When fishing at Lake Eildon, you're likely to reel in:
Source: fishesofaustralia.net.au
#1 – The Golden Perch
The Golden perch, also known as yellowbelly, is a popular freshwater fish found in Victorian waters. It's known for its golden-bronze coloration and is a prized catch for many anglers.
How to catch Golden Perch
To catch Golden perch in Victoria, anglers can employ various techniques. Bait fishing is effective, using worms, yabbies, or small fish on a standard hook and sinker rig. Lure fishing is also popular, with soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and hard-bodied lures all proven effective. When fishing in rivers, target areas around snags, deep holes, and undercut banks. In lakes, focus on drop-offs, weed beds, and submerged timber. Trolling can be productive in both environments. Early morning and late afternoon are often the best times to fish for Golden perch.
To learn more about catching Golden Perch, read more here.
Source: vfa.vic.gov.au
#2 – The Murray Cod
Murray cod is Australia's largest freshwater fish species, known for its impressive size and powerful fighting ability.
How to catch Murray Cod
To catch Murray cod in Victoria, focus on fishing in rivers and impoundments within the Murray-Darling Basin. Use heavy tackle with 20-30lb line and strong leaders to handle their power. Cast near structure like sunken logs, rocky outcrops, or deep holes. Lure fishing is popular, with large hard-bodied lures, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics being effective. For bait fishing, use yabbies, shrimp, or large bardi grubs. Trolling with deep-diving lures can also be productive in larger waterways. Fish during low light periods or at night for best results, especially in summer. Always handle Murray cod with care and release any outside the legal size limit quickly and gently.
To learn more about catching Murray Cod, read more here.Less Common Catches
If you're lucky, you might also encounter:
Source: flystream.com
#3 – 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
#4 – 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.
Source: www.nativefish.asn.au
#5 – 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 Lake Eildon
Where is Lake Eildon?
Lake Eildon is situated in the beautiful Goulburn 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 Lake Eildon?
Lake Eildon offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include murray cod and golden perch. Additionally, brown trout, rainbow trout, and redfin 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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