Fishing

There is a diverse range of fishing options throughout Victoria. Freshwater rivers and streams offer the opportunity to catch species such as trout, perch and Murray cod. Snapper, whiting and flathead are often caught out at sea.

Freshwater fishing

Suitable spots for freshwater fishing near Melbourne are the Yarra River at Warburton and the Steavenson River near Marysville. Both have good stocks of trout.

In the state's east, the rivers and estuaries around Marlo, Bemm River and Mallacoota, are where you can find bream, flathead and trevally.

Victoria's High Country provides good fishing opportunities. Some of the best spots are the Kiewa, Mitta Mitta and Ovens Rivers, where both brown and rainbow trout are found. Another good place for trout fishing is Lake Eildon.

Within central Victoria, trout can be found in many lakes including Cairn Curran, Lauriston and Tullaroop. The lakes of the Grampians area, such as Bellfield, Fyans and Wartook, are also good choices. Many of these lakes are also good locations for catching other species, such as perch, redfin, blackfish and Murray cod. Another good lake to try for Murray cod and golden perch is Lake Eppalock, between Bendigo and Heathcote.

Some of Victoria's best rivers for fishing include the Campaspe, Goulburn and Murray Rivers, all of which have a variety of species.

Saltwater fishing

In the Melbourne area, Port Phillip and Western Port are ideal spots for saltwater fishing. Anglers can throw a line in from the many piers around the bays or fish from boats. The area is good for whiting, small sharks, flathead and snapper, amongst others. For beach fishing, try the Mornington Peninsula beaches of Gunnamatta, Point Leo or Rye Back Beach. Corio Bay, at Geelong, is a good location for catching snapper.

In Gippsland, Port Albert provides good snapper fishing during the warmer months, while the Ninety Mile Beach is a good place for surf fishing.

Along the Great Ocean Road, a variety of species including Australian salmon, barracouta, flathead, garfish, mullet, sharks, snapper, trevally and whiting are found. The Hopkins River estuary, near Warrnambool, is good for bream, while the Glenelg River estuary has a number of different varieties. For beach fishing in the west, Narrawong, near Portland, is ideal.

Fish farms

To guarantee a successful catch, visit one of Victoria's fish farms. Set within regional areas of Victoria, these farms typically stock salmon and trout in ponds, offering a great fishing experience for those of all ages and skill levels. Some farms have on-site BBQs so you can enjoy eating your catch right away.

Alpine Trout Farm

Enjoy a great day out as you fish for salmon or trout, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings and make use of the BBQ facilities

Location: Noojee

www.alpinetroutfarm.com.au

Australian Rainbow Trout Farm

Catch your own fresh fish from the ponds which are highly stocked with rainbow trout, golden trout, brook trout and Atlantic salmon. Within the picturesque grounds are BBQ and picnic facilities, a kiosk, childrens playground and many life-like animal sculptures.

Location: Emerald

www.troutfarm.com.au

Buxton Trout & Salmon Farm

Australia's first commercial trout farm provides a great day out for all, located within a natural bush setting. Catch a range of trout varieties or salmon, and either cook it on a BBQ at the farm or take it home.

Location: Marysville

www.buxtontrout.com.au

Mountain Fresh Trout & Salmon Farm

Located in a peaceful 7 hectare setting, the farm offers a great family day out. Catch a fish or stroll by the fish breeding ponds which are fed with pristine spring water. Fresh and smoked fish is available for purchase from the farm gate.

Location: Harrietville

mountainfresh.wixsite.com/mountainfreshtrout

Fishing licences

A licence is required for recreational fishing in Victoria. People who are under 18 or who are 70 years of age or over are exempt from requiring a licence. Fishing licences can be obtained online or in person from the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) or from selected retail businesses in Victoria. For further information or to buy your licence online, see Victorian Fisheries Authority.

Fishing charters

For anglers who prefer the challenge of reeling in larger fish, or those who want to participate in an organised fishing expedition, join one of the many fishing charters available in Victorian waters.