Mitchell Fishing Guide: Top Spots, Fish & Best Tackle in Victoria

#1 – Dargo River, Mitchell

A tributary of the Mitchell River, accessible via the Bairnsdale/Dargo Road, known for trout fishing.

Dargo River is home to various fish species such as Brown Trout, Australian Bass and River Blackfish.

#2 – Mitchell River, Mitchell

Victoria's largest unregulated river, free of barriers and with its natural flow regime unchanged.

Mitchell River is home to various fish species such as Brown Trout, Australian Bass, Australian Grayling and River Blackfish.

#3 – Wonnangatta River, Mitchell

A Heritage River with reliable high annual flow, known for its trout fishing.

Wonnangatta River is home to various fish species such as Brown Trout, River Blackfish and Long-Finned Eel.

#1 – The Australian Bass

The Australian Bass is a popular freshwater sport fish native to coastal rivers and streams in eastern Australia. Known for its fighting spirit and delicious flesh, it's a prized catch for many anglers.

How to catch Australian Bass

To catch Australian Bass in Victoria, focus on structure-rich areas in rivers and impoundments. Early mornings and evenings are often the most productive times. Casting near fallen timber, rocky outcrops, or overhanging vegetation can be effective. Both lure and bait fishing work well. When using lures, try a slow retrieve with occasional pauses to entice strikes. For bait fishing, use light tackle and small hooks. In estuaries during their winter migration, fishing with soft plastics or live baits can be successful.

#2 – The Australian Grayling

The Australian grayling is a protected freshwater fish species native to south-eastern Australia, including Victoria.

How to catch Australian Grayling

As the Australian grayling is a protected species, there are no legal fishing techniques, baits, or gear to catch them. Instead of fishing for Australian grayling, anglers in Victoria are encouraged to learn about and appreciate this unique species while focusing their fishing efforts on other permitted species. If you’re interested in observing Australian grayling, consider participating in approved scientific surveys or conservation programs that monitor the species.

#3 – 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.

#4 – 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.