By Archer Hume
Cobungra River Fishing Guide
The Cobungra River is a well-known brown trout stream in the Mitta Mitta region.
Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Fishing in Lake William Hovell, King River: Species, Tactics & Local Tips
A man-made lake at the headwaters of the King River, offering both shore and boat fishing opportunities.
Source: www.victoriashighcountry.com.au
table of contents
Introduction
Lake William Hovell is a picturesque reservoir located at the upper reaches of the King River. This man-made lake provides a different fishing experience compared to the river, with its still waters and greater depths. The lake is surrounded by forested hills, creating a stunning backdrop for anglers. Boat fishing is popular here, allowing access to deeper parts of the lake where larger fish often reside. Shore fishing is also productive, particularly around the dam wall and in the bays and inlets around the lake’s perimeter. The lake is stocked regularly with trout, making it a reliable spot for catching these species. However, it also supports populations of native fish. Trolling is a common technique used by boat anglers, while shore-based fishers often find success with bait fishing and lure casting. The lake’s conditions can change with water levels and seasons, so anglers should be prepared to adapt their techniques accordingly.
About King River
The King River is a picturesque waterway located in northeastern Victoria, Australia. Flowing through varied landscapes, from forested highlands to gentle valleys, it offers diverse fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to find a mix of native and introduced fish species, making it a popular destination for both local and visiting fishing enthusiasts.
You can find more information about King River in our King River region guide post.
What should you fish with at Lake William Hovell?
When it comes to fishing at Lake William Hovell, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at Lake William Hovell 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 William Hovell.
The Top 5 Baits to Use at Lake William Hovell
For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results at Lake William Hovell:
- Live Worms
- Scrubworms
- Garden Worms
- Minnows
- Small Fish
The Top 5 Lures to Use at Lake William Hovell
For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders at Lake William Hovell:
- Soft Plastics
- Hard Bodied Lures
- Spinnerbaits
- Minnow Lures
- Surface Lures
What You'll Catch at Lake William Hovell
When fishing at Lake William Hovell, 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 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:
Source: www.nativefish.asn.au
#3 – The Macquarie Perch
Macquarie perch (Macquaria australasica) is a protected freshwater fish species native to Victoria, Australia. It is currently the focus of conservation efforts due to its declining population.
How to catch Macquarie Perch
Fishing for Macquarie perch is prohibited in Victoria due to their protected status. Instead of providing fishing techniques, anglers are encouraged to learn about and support conservation efforts for this species. If you accidentally catch a Macquarie perch, handle it gently and release it immediately to ensure its survival.
To learn more about catching Macquarie Perch, read more here.
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 Lake William Hovell
Where is Lake William Hovell?
Lake William Hovell is situated in the beautiful King River 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 William Hovell?
Lake William Hovell offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include rainbow trout and brown trout. Additionally, redfin and macquarie perch 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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