Gone fishin’: More than 1,500 rainbow trout set to top up West Vic waters

With plenty more fish in the lakes, we’ve got you sorted on where you can cast a line.

Zara Cuthbertson
July 03, 2025

More than 1,500 rainbow trout are set to be released across five popular fishing spots in western Victoria, offering a low-cost outing during the school holidays.

The stocking is part of a broader state-wide effort that will see around 35,000 ready-to-catch trout released into more than 70 lakes this weekend, giving new and seasoned anglers the chance to reel in a catch close to home.

In West Vic, Alexandra Lake in Ararat and Cobden Lake will each receive 300 rainbow trout, while 100 will be released into Jubilee Lake at Skipton. Old Hamilton Reservoir is set for a boost with 400 fish, and Warrnambool’s Pertobe Lake tops the regional tally with 450 trout.

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The Victorian Fisheries Authority says the 200-gram rainbow trout, grown at the Snobs Creek hatchery, are ideal for beginners and perfect for casting from the shore using affordable bait or basic lures.

Increased visitation to local towns is expected following the trout release.

More west Vic lakes will receive trout during the September holidays.

There is a daily limit of five trout, with only two allowed to exceed 35 centimetres in length. Fishing licences are required for those aged 18 to 70.