By Archer Hume
Kiewa Bridge Fishing Guide
Kiewa Bridge offers excellent access to the river and is a popular spot for local anglers.
Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume
Fishing in Wonnangatta River, Mitchell: Species, Tactics & Local Tips
A Heritage River with reliable high annual flow, known for its trout fishing.
Source: backofbeyondflyfishing.com
table of contents
Introduction
The Wonnangatta River, designated as a Heritage River, offers anglers a chance to fish in a relatively untouched environment. The river is characterized by its reliable and high annual flow, creating ideal conditions for brown trout. The surrounding tall mixed species forests provide a scenic backdrop for fishing adventures. Access can be challenging, often requiring 4WD vehicles, which adds to the river’s remote and pristine feel. Fly fishing is popular here, with the clear waters allowing for sight fishing opportunities. While brown trout is the primary target, anglers might also encounter river blackfish and eels. The best fishing is often found in the cooler months when the water temperatures are optimal for trout activity.
About Mitchell
The Mitchell region in Victoria, Australia, is characterized by steep mountains and dense native forests, with a small coastal area of flat farmland. It’s home to the Mitchell River, Victoria’s largest unregulated river, and numerous tributaries. The region offers diverse fishing opportunities, with brown trout being the main angling species in most waters, while Australian bass are important in the mid-lower reaches.
You can find more information about Mitchell in our Mitchell region guide post.
What should you fish with at Wonnangatta River?
When it comes to fishing at Wonnangatta River, your choice of bait or lure can greatly impact your success. Based on the preferred fishing methods for the species found here, at Wonnangatta River you can find success with nearly anything, as both baits and lures are equally effective.
For the best chances of success, try using Garden Worms 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 Wonnangatta River.
The Top 5 Baits to Use at Wonnangatta River
For those who prefer bait fishing, here are the top 5 options that have consistently produced results at Wonnangatta River:
- Live Worms
- Garden Worms
- Scrubworms
- Maggots
- Minnows
The Top 5 Lures to Use at Wonnangatta River
For artificial lure enthusiasts, here are the 5 most effective options that have been proven to work wonders at Wonnangatta River:
- Soft Plastics
- Hard Bodied Lures
- Minnow Lures
- Spinnerbaits
- Surface Lures
What You'll Catch at Wonnangatta River
When fishing at Wonnangatta River, 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.Less Common Catches
If you're lucky, you might also encounter:
Source: vrfish.com.au
#2 – The River Blackfish
The River blackfish is a freshwater fish native to south-eastern Australia, known for its dark coloration and elongated body.
How to catch River Blackfish
To catch River blackfish, focus on fishing during dusk, night, or early morning when they are most active. Use light tackle and fish close to structure such as fallen logs, undercut banks, or dense vegetation. Bait fishing with worms or small yabbies can be effective, as can slowly retrieving small soft plastics or hard-bodied lures. Be patient and persistent, as these fish can be shy and require a delicate approach.
To learn more about catching River Blackfish, read more here.FAQs about Wonnangatta River
Where is Wonnangatta River?
Wonnangatta River is situated in the beautiful Mitchell 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 Wonnangatta River?
Wonnangatta River offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The primary fish species you can target include brown trout Additionally, river blackfish and long-finned eel 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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