Hopefully we’ve seen the last of the hot weather and bushfires for this summer. It has certainly made, on occasion, for some very challenging fishing with many species not appreciating the heat.

It’s been great to see so many parents and grandparents taking their youngsters fishing. Although catches may have been limited due to noise, other water activity or skill, Yarra River eels have continued to provide reliable action around dusk. The best spots have been the deeper holes around Warrandyte. A large scrubworm and a size 4 Youvella baitholder hook has been the rig of choice. Just remember to take the mozzie spray along with you.!

The trout have certainly slowed right down in the upper reaches of the Yarra around Warburton with only limited reports filtering through. Those who have been lucky have had most success using hopper and cricket flies. Spin anglers have had most success with small Celtas in green and gold.

For something a little different try a Berkley Power Nymph rigged on a resin head. To improve the action and gain some depth in this hot weather you can also add 1 or 2 small split shot at 10cm intervals. Cast this rig into the top of runs and let it drift into the slower deeper holes with just the occasional twitch. If done correctly this should imitate a drowned cricket or grasshopper.

It’s been a magnificent summer for Macquarie perch, redfin and cod in the Yarra, particularly between Wonga Park and Templestowe, and a bit beyond. Spinnerbaits in dark purple shades have been popular amongst canoe enthusiasts and have produced some good cod. For those fishing off the bank, scrubworms rigged on an all-round size 4 hook, or yabbies rigged on a Shiner 6 hook have been working best.

For coarse anglers targeting roach, success has been achieved using small stick floats with size 18 hooks. A single maggot is sufficient. The Melbourne Gun Club at the end of Victoria Road in Lilydale has been a top spot.

There have been reports of some illusive mega bream taken around the Docklands. Success has come by fishing in the dark shadows under the pier structures at dawn.

Although the water may be 15 metres deep, try fishing the top section, down approximately 2 to 4 metres. If you’re game, 6lb fluorocarbon line will increase your hookup rates but landing fish with such light gear can be areal challenge in amongst the structure.

Live shrimp is the pick of the baits or for the spin angler, try an Eco Gear SX40 in clear natural colours.

For up to date information about fishing in the Yarra Valley contact the boys at Compleat Angler in Ringwood on (03) 9870 7792 or better still, drop in at 92 Maroondah Hwy – we’re open 7 days a week with plenty of top quality fresh bait and a great selection of freshwater gear.