The rivers close to angler’s targeting trout on June 8, and the rain recently has certainly improved the fishing conditions for trout. Lots of new food sources have entered the Yarra improving both the size and quality of the trout on offer.

Cod and yellowbelly will be dormant now until September onwards with the increase in water temperatures. Eels, blackfish and redfin catches will improve as the temperatures drop and the rain brings run off as well as new food sources along the banks.

Currently the most consistent reports are coming through for trout are above Woori Yallock up to the upper reaches of Warburton. Ringwood customers Joseph and Larry reported good sightings of trout, landing a female of around 3lb on a vibe lure. Well done guys on putting her back into the water.

Don’t be afraid to venture into the top reaches of the Yarra at this time of year before the season closes on June 8. No water is too shallow or small. The trout will like the faster clearer water as it will have lots of new food sources as well as being highly oxygenated. Always be careful to not walk on the spawning grounds. The fish seem to be getting spooked very easily, perhaps more so than other years at this time, perhaps the clarity of the water or less undergrowth being around than other years due to the bushfires. Try moving quietly and lightly along the banks and do not venture in very slow moving water. If you need to cross, go through quicker moving waterways. Your splashes will be less disturbing crossing this way.

I have been checking our Warrandyte over the past few weeks with the action being very slow and only the keenest anglers having any success. The chill factor off the water was very cold and it was only the brave or the stupid having a go and I am not sure I am all that brave!

During June I would suggest that you reduce the size of your hooks going for really small ones or the other side of the spectrum and go for much larger than normal. The trout will either be feeding so will take a small sized hook or being more aggressive so will take a larger hook. Those hooks in the middle zone will not get the same results as you would have got during April. Select large aggressive profile flies or small passive colour nymphs. Rusty browns seem to be working better than browns or darker shades.

Reports coming in are suggesting that baits are proving more successful over the past weeks. Small scrubworms or maggots cast into a berley trail will attract more fish and increase your chances. Although the streams and rivers will close for trout on Queen’s Birthday weekend in June, Lakes and Dams are still open as well as targeting of other species along the Yarra.

Had some success? Send me the details via email at --e-mail address hidden-- . And include the angler, species, where caught (you don’t need to give me all your secrets) and what bait, lure or flies you used.

For up to date Yarra Valley fishing information 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.