The cod opening has started with some very encouraging results, not only in good numbers but, also excellent sizes. Most areas have been well worth the effort with plenty of fish caught on bait and lures.

The Murray River at Echuca is very clean and running at a normal summer level, and the water temperature is at 21C.

The area just above the Torrumbarry Weir has seen the best of the big cod action so far. Local angler Merv Williams landed (and released) a lovely 1.05m Murray cod early on Friday 1 December. This fish was caught on a gold and black Teigar lure, size 85mm. Other good fish were caught in this area with reports of three other fish caught that were over the magic metre mark. The best of the baits used in this area was the bardi grub which also accounted for some good sized fish.

The Murray River around the five mile boat ramp has also had its fair share of good cod action.

The Moama RSL Fishing Classics Ron Stockdale landed a very nice cod of around 8kg when trolling just five minutes from the ramp, the lucky colour was purple/black and this fish was also landed in the morning.

The Goulburn River around Echuca is a little quieter than the Murray, although there are a few more yellowbelly being caught in the Goulburn. Cod to around 5kg have been landed in the Goulburn with live yabbies the best of the baits. The yellowbelly have been keen on shrimp and worm cocktails with fish up to 3.5kg landed with this method.

The Warranga Basin is at around 30% capacity and it continues to produce some excellent bags of quality redfin. Fish are taking baits and lures with small yabbies and live shrimp the best of the baits and small red and black lures and trout pattern ice jigs the best lures to try.

The Edward River is also running clear and has good flows.

Smaller cod of around 3-4kg seem to be the most prolific although the odd larger fish has been reported. All baits are worth trying with shrimp and small yabbies the pick of them. The area around the Gulpa Island and the area near the Four Posts Camp have been the best so far. The area below Stevens Weir has also been well worth fishing with plenty of smaller cod and the odd yella being caught, bait is also the way to go there.

For more information from the Echuca area call in and see Garry at Gone Fishin, 190 Annesley St Echuca.