Keen trout anglers should make the most of the last few days before the season closes in our rivers. There are still some good-sized trout out there and feeding.

To protect our future fishing, please return all female trout so they can breed over the coming season. The recent rain has made some areas very dirty, however the trout love the cooler temperatures and the new food sources.

Currently the best stretch of the Yarra River for trout is above Woori Yallock up to Warburton. Don’t be afraid to venture into the top reaches of the Yarra. No water is too shallow or small at the time of year. The fish will be moving around a lot, so you may need to walk and try out new spots. Always be careful to not walk on the spawning grounds.

Team members Steve, Wayne and I have been venturing down around Warrandyte over recent weeks, and have found the trout action very slow. Only the keenest anglers are having any success. The best areas are around the bridge in main street of Warrandyte and next to Jumping Creek Reserve. Small scrubworms are proving to be the most successful bait.

Recent reports from fly anglers indicate more success from darker flies in colours such as olive and rusty brown. The trout will either be feeding, and so will take a small hook, or will be aggressive at spawning time and will take a larger hook. Those hooks in the middle range will not get the same action. Select large, aggressive profile flies or small passive coloured nymphs.

Although the streams and rivers will close for trout after the Queens Birthday weekend in June, lakes and dams are still open. Other species along the Yarra are also still open for business, so all fishing is not lost in our area over winter.

Murray cod and golden perch fishing is now over as they now lay dormant until the water temperatures increase. Eels, blackfish and redfin fishing will improve as the temperatures drop and the rain brings run-off and new food sources along the banks.

To target redfin, use Jackal TN60 lures, small yabbies or scrubworms. Redfin hold close to the structure looking for food floating by, so look for medium to fast water flow near a large wood structure. Cast to the leading edge and let it drift by. If using the lures, repetitively cast and retrieve in this zone. If using small yabbies or scrubworms, cast upstream, let them drift and then retrieve and repeat. These fish peck at the hook, so it is important to strike quickly to set the hook.

Reports from Sugar Loaf have been positive, however the best fishing seems to be within 20 minutes of ‘lock up’ time. I think the ranger must think anglers are pretty slow at packing up during autumn and winter! Anyway this is a great local spot not far from Yarra Glen and will provide some great fishing when conditions are right.

Winter is also a great time to target Macquarie perch as they like the deeper, cooler water. Small scrubworms seem to be attracting more of the trout and Macquarie perch than spinners or flies. The best areas for targeting Macquarie perch are from Warrandyte through to Templestowe.

Had some success? Send me the details via email at --e-mail address hidden-- , and include the angler, species, where caught, and what bait, lure or flies you used. For up to date Yarra Valley fishing information contact the boys at Compleat Angler in Ringwood on 03 9870 7792, or better still drop in at 92 Maroondah Highway – we’re open 7 days a week with plenty of top quality fresh bait and a great selection of freshwater gear.