Bendigo Fishing Times, Locations & Reports

Bendigo Fishing

Bendigo Fishing Guide

Bendigo is close to the Loddon Valley, which offers plenty of freshwater fishing spots. Instead of one main destination, you can choose from the Loddon River, local creeks, lakes, and reservoirs.

Most fishing here is bank-based along rivers and lakes. You’ll find shaded banks, gum trees, and calm water edges where you can easily set up.

If you prefer fishing from a boat, there are ramps on the Loddon River at Bridgewater and Serpentine, as well as at Laanecoorie Reservoir and Kow Swamp.

If you’re fishing from the bank near Bendigo, try the Coliban River upstream of Lake Eppalock, the Loddon River between Newbridge and Bridgewater, Crusoe Reservoir at Kangaroo Flat, or the swimming area side of Eppalock near Kimbolton.

Target Fish Species

You’ll mostly be fishing for inland freshwater species here. The area is regularly stocked, with golden perch added to the Loddon River, Laanecoorie Weir, and Little Lake Boort, and Murray cod fingerlings released into the Loddon and Laanecoorie Weir.

Redfin, yellowbelly (golden perch), and silver perch are the main fish you’ll find. Redfin are most active in cooler months and bite best at dawn and dusk, especially in autumn and winter near submerged timber. Yellowbelly are usually caught in late spring and summer, with the best chances in the evening or early morning as the water warms up. Silver perch are more active in warmer months, especially after rain or when the water is flowing. Each spot is a bit different: riverbanks and bridges are good for moving around on foot, while reservoirs and weirs are better for boating or kayaking. Stocked spots like Crusoe Reservoir are a handy local choice.

Tactics

Keep the approach simple and match your setup to the water you’re fishing. For most rivers and lakes around Bendigo, a running sinker rig with a size 2-4 baitholder hook works well for worms or bardi grubs. If you’re after redfin or yellowbelly, try small hardbody lures in natural or bright colours, or use soft plastics like paddle-tail minnows on a 1/8 oz jighead. Spinnerbaits are also a good choice for Murray cod and golden perch near snags and submerged timber. It’s a destination where a basic rod, lures, worms, and bardi grubs are common tools, which fits the area’s accessible, family-friendly character.

Around Eppalock near KiNear Kimbolton at Eppalock, you’ll find plenty of reddies. Both trolling and casting lures work well here, and it’s a great spot for kayak fishing. From Newbridge to Bridgewater, bank fishing offers opportunities, so moving between accessible bends, bridge approaches, and shaded banks is recommended until you find yourself on a bite.

Before you go fishing, check the latest size and bag limits in the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide. Watch for any local rules or seasonal closures, like closed seasons for native fish or no-fishing zones at certain reservoirs and river sections. Always follow signs, respect private property, and use catch and release when advised. This helps protect fish and keeps things positive with the local community.