This is the first year in many years that the Yarra River has flooded consistently for lengths of time over the winter months.

This in turn gouged deep new pools and cleaned away the moss and slime from the rocks and riverbed, meaning higher oxygen levels though out the river system and an increase in food levels for the fish.

This opens up the whole river giving many places and many styles of fishing good active fish population for the angler to target.

Here are some of the hot locations to visit over the next few months that will offer such diversity as family access, wading possibilities and remote areas.

This section of the river has large deep flowing water with large river gums lining the edges; this is a great place for a family picnic and a fish.

Here you will be able to wade the river as it has a blend of deep pools and shallow pebble sections. It’s a good area for the fly caster or lure fisher.

Access this area via Woods Point Road. This area gives you the ability to sneak up on the fish, as there are high densities of scrub and trees; this remote area allows you to hunt your prey.

In this section of the Yarra you will need to be on your game with your casting accuracy, whether that’s fly, lure or drifting a ‘hopper or scrubworms.

In the heart of town there is still great fishing on offer. Cast a line while walking the river behind the football ground or fish from the viewing platforms which have been placed along the rivers edge. I have seen a number of good fish rising around dusk from these platforms in the middle of town.

Some anglers choose to get a group together and travel downstream from Woori Yallock in a kayak, casting lures through this river’s flat lands. Always fish the river junction and look for the fish hiding amongst the scrub at the under cut banks.

This river offers multiple ways to fish it and each location has varied ways to target the fish. A fun way to access these locations is via the Warburton Rail Trail. The trail winds its way from Lilydale to Warburton and the Yarra River is never too far away from this scenic trail, giving access to the young and the young at heart. If this sounds too energetic for you, you can load up the car and park close to these fishing spots.

Had some success? Send me the details to; --e-mail address hidden-- Include a photo, anglers name, species, the area you were fishing.

Your photo will go into our draw for a chance to win you a $100.00 Tackle Voucher.

For up to date fishing information, both fresh and saltwater, contact the boys at Compleat Angler in Dandenong on 9794 9397 or drop in and see us at 209 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong, or at our Ringwood Store at 92 Maroondah Hwy, – both stores are open 7 days a week. We offer plenty of top quality fresh bait, lures and a great selection of freshwater and saltwater gear.

Information sheets are also available to download at www.whatsbiting.com.au

Rainbow trout are always the prime target.