Loddon River

Loddon River Fishing Guide

Fishing the Loddon River in Victoria provides above average opportunities to catch native fish such as Murray cod and golden perch, along with redfin and carp. The best spots are Bridgewater-on-Loddon, Newbridge, and the Laanecoorie area. If you time your visit properly, your chances of having success will increase.

Murray cod are most active during the warmer months, from December to March, particularly at dawn and dusk. Golden perch are most likely to bite in spring and early summer and react best early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Redfin can be caught year-round, but tend to feed vigorously during the cooler months, while carp are available year-round, with peak activity on warmer days.

Popular Fishing Spots

Bridgewater-on-Loddon

The area features excellent banking facilities, public parks, and deep pools filled with native fish; it also has public toilets, picnic areas, and a boat ramp, making it a convenient place for families and anglers who are visiting on a day trip.

Newbridge

There are certain camping spots which are suitable for families, and there is a more tranquil part of the river experiencing less fishing pressure.

Laanecoorie Reservoir & Weir

The water upstream as well as that downstream of the wall is good for golden perch and redfin. Serpentine works well as a timber structure when casting lures at yellowbelly.

Target Fish Species

Murray Cod

Cod are often found near fallen trees and stumps, and in deep holes. When the light levels are low, they should be targeted with spinnerbaits, hardbody lures or surface lures. In local waters, spinnerbaits in purple, black or dark green should be used, and lures weighing between one-half ounce and one ounce should be chosen. Hardbody lures that are about 90 to 120 millimetres long in natural or dark colours are often effective, especially in muddy water; bright chartreuse or orange markings can also be useful for triggering bites on overcast days or in stained water. A good setup for catching Murray cod consists of a strong baitcasting or spinning rod that is about 6 to 7 feet long with a medium-heavy to heavy power rating. Combine with a quality reel spooled with 20 to 30 pound braided line and a matching fluorocarbon or mono leader to cope with the strength of these large native fish and the snags you might come across.

Golden Perch (Yellowbelly)

Live shrimp and small worms are the most effective baits for catching golden perch in the Loddon River, since they are in high demand among local anglers and often produce the best catches. Artificial soft plastics and small hardbody lures can also work, particularly when they are moved slowly near the bottom. It is a good method to troll or jig small lures, especially in the warmer months. Remember that the current minimum legal size for golden perch in Victoria is 30 cm, and the daily bag limit is five fish per person. It is important to check the regulations of the Victorian Fisheries Authority before fishing to make sure you are complying with the latest rules.

Redfin & Carp

They can be found all over the system and give reliable action when using standard bait setups.

Redfin prefer small soft plastic lures that mimic worms or worm-style plastics on a light jighead, particularly when fished near structure or along the edge of weed beds. A sinker rig with worms or small yabbies also proves effective for catching redfin and is something that beginners can easily use.

Corn kernels, bread, or dough balls placed on a simple running sinker or paternoster rig work very well.

A light and sensitive rod is useful for picking up the slight bites given by both species.

While fishing on the Loddon River, you should be aware of possible dangers including slippery or uneven river banks, strong or increasing water currents (particularly following rainfall), and submerged logs where it is difficult to find a firm footing. You need to keep a careful eye on your surroundings, wear good footwear, and watch for any children near the water to make sure the fishing trip is both safe and enjoyable.