Sweeneys Flats

Sweeneys Flats Fishing

Sweeneys Flats is a freshwater spot on the Yarra River in Eltham, reached via Sweeneys Lane and surrounded by bushland instead of built-up fishing platforms. Most access is from the land, with a simple parking area on a dirt track. The banks here are sometimes easier to manage than other parts of the Yarra, but they can still be rough.

If you want safer footing, the area closest to the car park is usually more stable and gently sloped, making it a better choice for families or anglers who need easier access. But remains difficult overall. Other parts of the bank are steeper and uneven, so be extra careful as you move along the river. After rain, mud can make parking and walking tricky, and some banks may not be safe for children.

NB: Some nearby land is private, so please stay in the public bushland and avoid entering residential or farm areas.

The river here has a mix of fast rapids, deep pools, and water from nearby creeks, creating diverse freshwater habitats. Fishing can be hit-or-miss, though the area remains popular with local anglers.

European carp are a major pest and must not be returned to the water alive. Macquarie perch live in this stretch and are fully protected, so you must release them unharmed. Murray cod are occasionally found in the wider Yarra here, but remember that closed season rules apply from September to November. It’s best to handle fish from this area carefully, and catch-and-release is a good idea for most native species. Redfin and carp being excepted.

Try fishing along the accessible bank edges, in deeper pools, in slower water next to faster flow, and around any snags instead of staying in one spot. Using a running sinker rig helps your bait move naturally and can make it easier to guide fish away from snags.

Bait and Lures

For redfin, small blade spinners, soft plastics in natural colours, and worms work well, especially in clear pools. Carp go for corn, bread, earthworms, or dough baits on the bottom. Eels are best caught with worms or pieces of chicken or fish, especially in slower, deeper, or muddier spots and where creeks flow in.

Be careful when bait fishing, as long-necked turtles might take your bait; handle them gently and put them back safely. Westerfolds Park upstream is a no-fishing area, so check signs before fishing beyond Sweeneys Flats.

Light freshwater gear works well here. A spinning rod about 6 feet long is practical, and 9 feet is about as long as you’ll need from the bank. A 6-pound line is enough for most fishing, but you can use up to 10 pounds if you’re worried about snags, carp, or tricky bank spots.

Turtles and Snakes are Protected Species

From October to March, be extra careful around grass, bushes, and riverbanks, as tigers and brown snakes can be active near the water. If you see a snake, stay calm, back away slowly, and give it plenty of space to leave. Never try to approach or move a snake.

If you accidentally hook a turtle, gently bring it to the bank and use a wet cloth or gloves to protect yourself and the turtle. Carefully remove the hook and put the turtle back in the water as soon as you can. There are heavy fines for interfering with protected wildlife, such as turtles, so always return them to the water quickly and safely.

Always supervise children closely and watch your step, especially during summer.