Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume

Fishing in Lake Tooliorook, Corangamite: Species, Tactics & Local Tips

Lake Tooliorook is a picturesque lake that is stocked with trout when conditions are suitable, offering seasonal fishing opportunities.

Image of Lake Tooliorook

Source: www.corangamite.vic.gov.au

Introduction

Lake Tooliorook, also known as Ettrick Lake, is a scenic water body in the Corangamite region that provides intermittent fishing opportunities. The lake is part of the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s stocking program, receiving trout when water conditions are favorable. This stocking strategy ensures that fishing remains sustainable and enjoyable when the lake’s ecosystem can support it. The lake’s water levels can vary significantly depending on rainfall, which affects both the stocking program and fishing conditions. When at good levels, Lake Tooliorook can offer excellent trout fishing, with both brown and rainbow trout available. Anglers should check current conditions and recent stocking reports before planning a trip. Various fishing techniques can be effective here, including fly fishing, lure casting, and bait fishing.

About Corangamite

The Corangamite region is a diverse basin in Victoria, Australia, characterized by a mix of gentle hills and flat farmland. It features several notable lakes and waterways, with annual rainfall varying from 500-700mm across the area. The region offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities, with some waters commercially fished for short-finned eel.

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

What should you fish with at Lake Tooliorook?

When it comes to fishing at Lake Tooliorook, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at Lake Tooliorook you will have a bit more success with lures, but bait fishing is common too.

For the best chances of success, try using Small Fish as bait or fishing with a Minnow Lures. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons at Lake Tooliorook.

The Top 5 Baits to Use at Lake Tooliorook

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

  • Live Worms
  • Scrubworms
  • Garden Worms
  • Minnows
  • Small Fish

The Top 5 Lures to Use at Lake Tooliorook

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

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

What You'll Catch at Lake Tooliorook

When fishing at Lake Tooliorook, 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 Redfin

Source: www.nativefish.asn.au

#3 – 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 Tooliorook

Where is Lake Tooliorook?

Lake Tooliorook is situated in the beautiful Corangamite 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 Tooliorook?

Lake Tooliorook offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include brown trout and rainbow trout. Additionally, 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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