By Archer Hume
Upper Coliban Reservoir Fishing Guide
A unique fishing destination known for its Macquarie perch population, offering a rare opportunity to target this protected species.
Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Fishing in Upper Coliban Reservoir, Campaspe Basin: Species, Tactics & Local Tips
A unique fishing destination known for its Macquarie perch population, offering a rare opportunity to target this protected species.
Source: coliban.com.au
table of contents
Introduction
The Upper Coliban Reservoir is a special fishing location within the Campaspe Basin, notable for being one of the few places where anglers can legally target and keep Macquarie perch. This makes it a destination of particular interest for those keen on native species fishing. The reservoir and its tributaries provide essential habitat for this threatened species, as well as supporting populations of other fish. The environment around the reservoir includes both open water and structure-rich areas, providing diverse fishing opportunities. While Macquarie perch are the star attraction, the reservoir also contains other species such as redfin and occasionally stocked trout. Fishing for Macquarie perch requires specific techniques, with bait fishing often being most effective. Lure fishing can also be productive, especially for redfin and trout. Anglers must be well-versed in the specific regulations regarding Macquarie perch fishing, including size and bag limits, to ensure the sustainability of this unique fishery. The reservoir’s picturesque setting adds to the fishing experience, making it a rewarding destination for patient and conservation-minded anglers.
About Campaspe Basin
The Campaspe Basin is a diverse fishing region in Victoria, Australia, stretching from the northern slopes of the Great Dividing Range to the Murray Valley. It features one main river, the Campaspe, and several large reservoirs that provide excellent fishing opportunities. The basin is known for its mix of native and introduced fish species, offering anglers a variety of targets in different aquatic environments.
You can find more information about Campaspe Basin in our Campaspe Basin region guide post.
What should you fish with at Upper Coliban Reservoir?
When it comes to fishing at Upper Coliban Reservoir, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at Upper Coliban Reservoir 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 Minnow Lures. Remember to always check local regulations and adjust your fishing strategy based on the specific conditions and seasons at Upper Coliban Reservoir.
The Top 5 Baits to Use at Upper Coliban Reservoir
For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results at Upper Coliban Reservoir:
- Live Worms
- Scrubworms
- Garden Worms
- Minnows
- Small Fish
The Top 5 Lures to Use at Upper Coliban Reservoir
For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders at Upper Coliban Reservoir:
- Soft Plastics
- Hard Bodied Lures
- Spinnerbaits
- Minnow Lures
- Surface Lures
What You'll Catch at Upper Coliban Reservoir
When fishing at Upper Coliban Reservoir, you're likely to reel in:
Source: www.nativefish.asn.au
#1 – 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.Less Common Catches
If you're lucky, you might also encounter:
Source: flystream.com
#2 – 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: 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 Upper Coliban Reservoir
Where is Upper Coliban Reservoir?
Upper Coliban Reservoir is situated in the beautiful Campaspe 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 Upper Coliban Reservoir?
Upper Coliban Reservoir offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include macquarie perch Additionally, redfin and brown trout 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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