Not much is happening this month. Alpine region-rivers and streams are now closed to trout fishing until September, although the lakes are still producing well, but only if one can access them. High snow drifts surround Rocky Valley and Pretty Valley reservoirs near Falls Creek and their access roads, making fishing a very cold and uninviting proposition.

Deep snow now covers the landscape surrounding the lakes and streams on the high plains, making fishing impossible until the thaw next September. Rainbow trout to 4kg and more are regularly caught in Rocky Valley reservoir by holidaying anglers. Most fish are taken by people fishing around the shoreline throughout the day using a variety of live bait and lures, and many of the more successful anglers have very little fishing experience, according to reports.

Lake Guy is low but well worth fishing throughout the day in winter. In recent weeks brown trout to 1.25kg have been responding to lures such as Rapalas and Tassie devils of various patterns. Drifted bait such as large earthworms and mudeyes are also taking their share, especially during the late afternoon.

Closed to fishing until September.

Lake Catani is 100% full and surrounded by a light layer of snow this month, but fishing conditions are excellent for anglers who go prepared. Warm clothing is a major priority and a good pair of warm gloves will prove useful as well. The lake is full of rainbow trout to 750g on average, although larger specimens are regularly taken from the deepest sections. The use of a canoe is a decided advantage as many of the best parts of the lake are practically inaccessible from the shoreline.

The Mt Beauty Pondage is 75% full and fishing is excellent around the shoreline, especially along the high or road side. Rainbow trout to 1.25kg are on offer with the average size being around 750g. Pondage trout respond well to live bait presented under a half-filled bubble float and a variety of lures, especially small Tassie Devils. The bottom is covered with dense weeds so keep your bait at about mid-depth for best results.

Closed to fishing until September. In recent weeks there have been some spectacular sightings of large brown trout forming up in the Kiewa River at Tawonga prior to moving off to their spawning grounds. Such behaviour is not often observed, but when it is it tends to remain in one’s memory for a long time, if not forever.

Alpine fishing conditions can change very quickly whatever the season, so for the latest update phone Geoff Lacey at Angling Expeditions Victoria on (03) 5754 1466 or check out website www.anglingvic.com.au