Whether you’re launching a boat or casting a line off the rocks, spring and summer provide the perfect opportunity to get the gear out and head on a trip. Just make sure you have the appropriate license before you go.
Image: Visit Great Ocean Road
Lake Purrumbete
Lake Purrumbete, a short drive from Camperdown, is a deep volcanic lake known for large brown and rainbow trout, tiger trout, Chinook salmon and redfin perch.
How to fish it: A boat ramp is available for boat fishing, while shore fishing is possible from accessible sections of the lake.
Image: Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority
Lorne beach and pier
Lorne is a popular fishing spot year-round along the Great Ocean Road. Typical catches include Australian salmon, snapper, silver trevally, King George whiting, squid, garfish and flathead.
How to fish it: From the pier, or along the rocks between the pier and the main beach.
Image: Visit Victoria
Lake Hamilton
A manmade lake established in 1977, Lake Hamilton is right in town and is stocked with trout and redfin perch.
How to fish it: Fishing from land is welcomed all the time while powered boats are only able to access the unrestricted area of the lake from 11am on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Image: Visit Victoria
Rocklands Reservoir
Surrounded by forest and filled with submerged timber, Rocklands Reservoir near Balmoral has numerous bays and arms to explore, and reel in redfin, Murray cod, golden perch and brown trout.
How to fish it: Boat ramps provide access to the reservoir, while shore fishing is possible from accessible banks.
Image: Visit Hamilton
Lake Toolondo
Lake Toolondo's open water and stands of drowned trees provide a habitat for large fish like brown trout, redfin and tench. It is a popular option near Horsham, although fluctuating water levels can affect access and fishing conditions.
How to fish it: Fish from the shore or launch a boat where ramps are accessible. Check current water levels and ramp conditions before travelling.
Image: Visit Victoria
Glenelg River
The Glenelg River near Nelson winds through Nelson and parts of the Lower Glenelg National Park. The waterway is a versatile fishing destination, with black bream, perch, Australian salmon, yellow-eye mullet, flathead and mulloway.
How to fish it: Fish from riverbanks or launch a boat from designated ramps around Nelson and along the estuary.
Image: Visit Victoria
Lake Fyans
With views towards the Grampians near Halls Gap, Lake Fyans is a small manmade lake known for redfin and trout.
How to fish it: Fish from the shore or launch a boat where access and conditions permit.