After plenty of warm days and some rain, anglers are basking in the fact that Murray cod are finally starting to bite.

The fishing has been superb at many locations and those using bait have caught mixed bags of carp, golden perch, catfish and, most importantly, cod.

Murray cod captures have been down this season but it seems the hot weather has stimulated the feeding activities of these iconic fish.

Most cod have been caught in the deeper sections of the river and trolling large deep-diving lures amid the structure has been the standout method.

Early morning starts are essential because being on the water at first light can be the difference between the glory of the catch or a fishless session.

Recently we experienced one of the best days on the Murray River, with son Jock and I managing to troll up no less than five fish more than 1m long. Talk about a fistful of giants! It doesn’t get much better than that and if it does, I hope I’m there to see it.

All fish were returned to the river and the young bloke is still wearing a grin that you couldn’t wipe off his face with a red-hot flannel.

All the cod were taken on 120mm Koolabung Codzilla lures and the colour seemed to make little difference. This amazing bite was on the back of a sharp rising barometer and tapered as the pressure levelled out.

Rumour has it a few cod are starting to show at Robinvale on lures but those in the know are remaining tight-lipped on the subject. Perhaps there is good reason because many meat-gatherers would give their eye teeth to get their hooks into these fish.

Some solid perch are being caught in the Robinvale pool water on bait and lures.

The Wakool River near Kyalite has been fishing well for golden perch on small yabbies, shrimp and scrub worms.

A couple of cod to 70cm have also pricked angling ears and brought smiles to the faces of those who thought they were all but gone.

In the Kerang Lake system anglers are revelling in the excellent opportunities. Cow Swamp has produced cod to 18kg on lures and bait. Some excellent catches of golden perch on lures have also kept anglers busy with blades and shad-style lures working well.

Lake Charm has redfin by the truckload on bait and some solid golden perch smashing lures. There are also a few cod to be caught in this area if you target them.

Lake Boga, too, is fishing well with heaps of redfin and some good-sized golden perch. Bait and lures are working well with early morning the best time to be on the water.

It won’t be long and the Autumn break will result in a bardie hatch. This is always a prime time to fish the surface for Murray cod and with a few fish starting to show, things look to be getting better on all fronts.