Cod anglers have been counting the sleeps like a kid at Christmass in anticipation of being able to get out and target the mighty cod once again.

Traditionally the lead up to cod season sees a great run of golden perch present in Lake Mulwala giving the keen native fisho’s something to chase.

Unfortunately up till now, these fish have been scarce and left most anglers scratching their head wondering where they’ve gone.

George Jovanovic managed to seek out a few above Bundalong in some warmer backwaters along with some great Reddies. John Fry was another who found the best approach was to target both the Yarrawonga Channel and Mulwala Canal if looking for a feed.

Blades and small hardbodied lures accounted for the majority of these captures.

On the flip side though, if the last month or two’s reports are anything to go by, some great size and conditioned cod should be about for the start of the season.

Mitiamo couple Trevor and Patsie Mitchell reported landing three quality cod measuring 65, 70 and 75cms respectively.

Tragowel lad Mick Shepherd was another who landed a 69cm model whilst out having a flick.

Late October saw the running of the popular Golden Do$$ars fishing tournament. Targeting golden perch only, 44 keen anglers took to the lake in search of some gold that would help secure them a part of the large prize money on offer.

Unfortunately nobody told the fish they were meant to help out to add to the excitement. Amazingly at the end of the two five-hour fishing sessions only one fish measuring in at 46cm was produced.

Ron Nott was the lucky man and was rewarded with over $2000 for his efforts. Some unlucky stories in regards to lost fish at the boat and bust off’s came in but that’s fishing.

All is in readiness for this year’s Cod Classic. Entries are open until 10am on the Saturday of the classic and all indications point to what should be another amazingly successful event. For all enquiries call Tony on 0357 441667 or drop into Lake Mulwala Fish Camp and Ski, the official Cod Classic store.

With only days to go until Cod season opens, I wish you all the best for the new season.

Ron Nott with his winning golden perch – the only fish landed out of 44 competitors.