The Goldfields region offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities in its many superb waterways. So whether you're an experienced angler or just a weekend hero getting started, you'll find plenty of places to catch your dinner.
Trout fishing
There are over a thousand private and public trout lakes in the greater Ballarat area, and all produce brown and rainbow trout – some weighing in at up to six kilograms. Public lakes such as the Upper Coliban, Lauriston, Tullaroop, Cairn Curran, Malmsbury, Andersons, (Hepburn), Newlyn and Harcourt are popular choices with trout anglers. If you prefer fishing in rivers, the Campaspe River from Lake Eppalock to Axedale is also worth investigating, particularly in spring and autumn.
Mayfly season
With a climate cooler than surrounding areas, Goldfields trout fishing is good year round (there is no closed season for trout on Victorian lakes, with the exception of lakes Wendouree and Purrembete in winter). The mayfly season starts in November and is in full swing through to April. From then the trout switch to smelting (chasing small bait fish) and over winter and early spring they also feed on chironomid (midges).