Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume

Fishing in Lake Nillahcootie, Broken Basin: Species, Tactics & Local Tips

A significant water storage in the upper reaches of the Broken River, offering diverse fishing opportunities.

Image of Lake Nillahcootie

Source: www.visitvictoria.com

Introduction

Lake Nillahcootie is a man-made reservoir located in the southern part of the Broken Basin. It serves as a major water storage for irrigation and plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the Broken River. The lake’s environment provides excellent habitat for various fish species, with its mix of open water and submerged timber.

The lake’s shoreline is accessible for bank fishing, while boat launching facilities allow anglers to explore deeper waters. The lake’s depth and structure create diverse fishing zones, from shallow flats to deeper channels.

Fishing techniques vary depending on the target species. For redfin, try using soft plastics or small hard-bodied lures around structure. When targeting golden perch, bait fishing with worms or yabbies can be effective, as well as using spinnerbaits or vibes in deeper water. Murray cod, while less common, can be caught using large lures or bait in the lake’s deeper sections and around submerged timber.

Best fishing times are typically early morning or late afternoon, especially during the warmer months. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before fishing.

About Broken Basin

The Broken Basin is a small catchment in Victoria, Australia, characterized by its main river, the Broken River, which flows from forested hills near Benalla to the Goulburn River at Shepparton. The basin features diverse aquatic habitats, including rivers, creeks, and lakes, offering excellent fishing opportunities. Despite some water management challenges, the basin supports a variety of native and introduced fish species, making it an attractive destination for anglers.

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

What should you fish with at Lake Nillahcootie?

When it comes to fishing at Lake Nillahcootie, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at Lake Nillahcootie 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 Diving Crankbaits. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons at Lake Nillahcootie.

The Top 5 Baits to Use at Lake Nillahcootie

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

  • Scrubworms
  • Yabbies
  • Shrimp
  • Minnows
  • Small Fish

The Top 5 Lures to Use at Lake Nillahcootie

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

  • Soft Plastics
  • Hard Bodied Lures
  • Spinnerbaits
  • Diving Crankbaits
  • Vibes

What You'll Catch at Lake Nillahcootie

When fishing at Lake Nillahcootie, you're likely to reel in:

Image of a Golden Perch

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.
Image of a Redfin

Source: www.nativefish.asn.au

#2 – 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.

Less Common Catches

If you're lucky, you might also encounter:

Image of a Murray Cod

Source: vfa.vic.gov.au

#3 – 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.

FAQs about Lake Nillahcootie

Where is Lake Nillahcootie?

Lake Nillahcootie is situated in the beautiful Broken Basin 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 Nillahcootie?

Lake Nillahcootie offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include redfin and golden perch. Additionally, murray cod 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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