It’s finals time for the majority of our winter sports, which also signals the end to another Murray cod and cray fishing season.

Looking back over the season, no records were set for outstanding returns or periods when the cod were ‘going off’ but what Lake Mulwala provided was a great chance for any angler to tangle with a mighty green fish or two on a regular basis.

Areas further downstream, which were decimated with black water events, are slowly starting to show the odd sign of life, hopefully this will improve next season.

As of the 1 September through to 30 November inclusive, the targeting of Murray cod is not permitted, and the crays are off limits until next May. For anyone that does encounter a cod over the next couple of months, it should be release unharmed as quickly as possible.

To minimise cod encounters while targeting yellowbelly, lures no more than 80mm should be used. If fishing the waters of North East Victoria in search of a yella or two, keep in mind the Murray River below Yarrawonga down stream to Tocumwal it totally closed to all forms of fishing for this period.

August again proved to be a tough month for the die-hards but results were there for those who persisted. None were more deserving than Jason Jeffery and Kev Brooks who targeted genuine big fish until the final whistle had sounded on the season. When most had packed the gear away for winter, these boys were out plying their craft with hansom rewards.

Best fish boated measured a touch over the magical meter mark taken by Russell Eldridge. This mighty cod was only the second one Russell had ever caught! A 6m Koolabung Codzilla was the lure of choice that did the damage. Kev followed up with an 83cm and 68cm while a few other smaller models were also encountered.

Keen Wang fisho Adam Bosley made a couple of trips to the lake coming up trumps on both occasions. Targeting the shallower water around the islands up the top end of the lake resulted in a few decent cod that stretched the tape well past the 60cm mark.

David True, Chris ‘Sausages’ Lewis and young Tyler True spent a fun day together in search of a yella or two. Between a fair bit of banter and carry on, young Tyler showed up this experienced pair when his cast spinnerbait was gobbled up by a very healthy 54cm yella. David was proud of his young fella’s efforts and I’m sure this fish’s length will stretch in time as the story of its capture is recounted!

Coming up on the 27 October is the popular Golden Do$$ars fishing competition, an event designed to specifically target yellowbelly and golden perch. Entry forms are now available.

Likewise, the Cod Classic is on again and promises to be huge – it shouldn’t be missed. Entry forms are also available now.

Call in and see us at Lake Mulwala Fish Camp & Ski, the official Cod Classic shop (Opp Post Office) or call 0357 441667 for further information.