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Cold weather still providing hot fishing
  |  First Published: August 2014



Although August can be one of the worst months of the year weather-wise, the very average conditions can prompt freshwater fish like trout and redfin to feed in many of the local lakes and rivers.

Devilsbend Reservoir is an excellent option for freshwater anglers located in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The reservoir is around 40 minutes drive from Dandenong and provides some excellent trout fishing. At present, windy and wet conditions make the thought of fishing tough, but these conditions provide the local trout with ample cover and the ability to feed aggressively in the turbid water. Just last week there were trout to 2.1kg caught by local angler Jordan, who has been persevering here for the last month. Jordan has found the windiest and most gloomy days have been when he has had the most success with hardbodied lures. The tackle that Jordan prefers when fishing the reservoir is a 7’–7’6” fast actioned graphite rod and small spinning reel loaded with 150m of good quality braid around 6-8lb. The slightly longer rod allows for better casting distance over the thick weed, and a good quality braid and leader help to drag fish back through it.

If you’re more into your river fishing then the Yarra is still worth a shot for redfin, Macquarie perch and blackfish during the winter months - just be mindful that the trout season will be shut for a while yet so all trout caught must be released. The middle reaches of the river from Warrandyte through to Yarra Junction are the better areas to fish with loads of snaggy, slow moving pools for these fish to seek refuge in. Your best bet in targeting these species of fish around this part of the river is the humble old scrubworm. The best way to rig up is often the simplest and for this form of fishing a simple paternoster rig is best. All you will need are some small 3-way swivels (preferably black not brass), 1/4oz bomb sinkers and some light fluorocarbon leader. Hook choices can vary but for the fish species in the area a small wide gap or baitholder hook in around #6 is perfect for a couple of juicy worms to be threaded on to. Targeting the snaggy pools during the day will see redfin and maccas come to the party, along with the ever present carp. Once daylight has shifted into early evening freshwater eels will harass your baits, but if you persist through them you can be rewarded with some lovely freshwater blackfish.

• If you have had some success in these areas lately send me a photo and go into the draw for your chance to win a store voucher valued at $100. Email it to: --e-mail address hidden-- Include, angler’s name, species, and the area you were fishing.. For up to date fishing information, contact the guys at Compleat Angler in Dandenong on 9794 9397 or drop in and see us at 241 – 243 Princes Hwy, Dandenong, we are open 7 days a week. For our other latest fishing reports and to download information sheets, go to www fishingcamping.com.au.
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