The chill has certainly slowed things down considerably in the local rivers but compared with the previous couple of Winters there are plenty of Murray Cod being picked up, and some very large ones.

There were some indications back in Autumn that this season could potentially be productive for trophy fish.

A large number of 80cm-95cm cod have been picked up in the past month and I have heard of eight fish over the magical metre mark in the past three weeks.

Those casting spinnerbaits have picked up the majority of these fish. Black and red seems to be the colour that’s on the end of most rods, and the combo has certainly accounted for its fair share of big fish since Christmas.

Don’t be afraid to step outside the square and use bright orange or white on days when the action is slow.

Bait fishing has been slow, to say the least, but that is to be expected at this time of the year.

Look for plenty of structure and drop your bait right down in the middle of it. You will get a lot more snags but you will also pick up a lot more fish.

Up in the mountains, crowds of snow-goers are starting to pack the local towns, a great thing for the local economies and without the snow these little places would struggle to provide the quality facilities that we fishers use throughout the year.

Keep this in mind next time you have to wait a little longer for your schnitzel at the local watering hole.

The months following the close of the season are possibly some of the best times to hit this lake. Throughout Winter there is far less fishing pressure and those who are careful enough to venture out in the cold can experience some great fishing.

A lot of trout are being picked up around Anglers Reach, particularly around the trees opposite the township. Yens Bay and Buckenderra are also worthwhile and are producing good results for land-based fishos.

Bait, lure and fly have all been working well but the key is to stay mobile and be prepared to cover plenty of ground to find fish.

Average sized presentations of 3cm-6cm will provide you with a great chance of picking up good numbers of fish.

Providence has still been producing a lot of trophy trout to all forms of fishing and will continue to do this throughout Winter.

Those who are boat-based seem to be racking up the higher numbers.

There are plenty of big browns in this area, which has to be the spot if you’re chasing a trophy fish. Bigger presentations are the key to success in the Providence Arm; 100mm minnow lures are not too big.

Keep in mind that Winter fishing in the mountains does not have to be uncomfortably cold. Get your hands on some quality alpine apparel; it will make a world of difference.