10 Best Fishing Spots in Melbourne: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re on the hunt for the finest and best fishing spots in Melbourne, you’re in for a treat as you explore the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Places like Rye Pier, Portsea Pier, and Flinders offer not only great fishing opportunities but also a chance to soak in the breathtaking scenery.

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Melbourne, known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is also a haven for fishing enthusiasts. With its diverse range of fishing spots, from piers to rivers, Melbourne offers plenty of opportunities to cast a line and reel in some impressive catches. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top fishing spots in Melbourne, highlighting the unique features and species you can expect to find. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to try your luck, this guide will help you make the most of your fishing experience in Melbourne.

1. Rye Pier

Located in the bustling sea town of Rye, about an hour from Melbourne’s CBD, Rye Pier offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for squid. The pier’s closure during the lockdown has resulted in a resurgence of marine life, including seals, dolphins, stingrays, and various fish species. As a result, locals have flocked to the pier, especially during sunset and night, to catch mass amounts of squid. Alongside squid, you can also expect to find whiting, snapper, salmon, trevally, flathead, leather jacket, and banjo shark.

Type of fishing: Pier Fishing Species you can find: Whiting, Squid, Snapper, Salmon, Trevally, Flathead, Leather Jacket, Banjo Shark Rules or hazards: Stay clear of sun-baking fur seals and respect their space.

For more information about Rye Pier, visit here.

2. Patterson River

Located in Patterson Lakes, just under an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD, Patterson River offers a prime fishing location known for its snapper, flathead, and squid. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbank or take a boat or kayak upstream, you’ll have the opportunity to catch bream, salmon, mullet, and other species. The river is surrounded by various parks, BBQ facilities, fishing stations, amenities, trails, gardens, and an art center, making it an ideal spot for a day of fishing and relaxation.

Type of fishing: River Fishing Species you can find: Snapper, Flathead, Squid, Salmon, Bream, Mullet, Mulloway, Flounder Rules or hazards: Be cautious of boat traffic and watch out for poisonous wildlife, such as snakes.

For more information about fishing in Patterson River, visit here.

3. Mordialloc Pier

Mordialloc Pier, also known as “Mordi Pier,” is a popular fishing spot located less than an hour away from Melbourne’s CBD. This bustling fishing pier is known for its abundance of snapper, making it a favorite among anglers. The pier’s proximity to various shops and restaurants means you can enjoy a fresh seafood meal even if you haven’t caught anything yourself. Other species you can expect to find at Mordialloc Pier include flathead, salmon, trevally, mullet, squid, garfish, and leather jackets.

Type of fishing: Pier Fishing Species you can find: Snapper, Flathead, Salmon, Trevally, Mullet, Squid, Garfish, Leather Jackets Rules or hazards: Be considerate of other anglers to avoid tangling lines, and watch out for slippery surfaces, especially when fishing with young children.

For more information about Mordialloc Pier, visit here.

4. Brimbank Park

Brimbank Park, located in Keilor East, offers a unique fishing experience in Melbourne. This picturesque park is home to Brimbank Lake, which is stocked with various fish species, including rainbow trout and redfin. Fishing is allowed in designated areas around the lake, making it a great spot for a peaceful day of angling. Alongside fishing, Brimbank Park also offers picnic areas, walking trails, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for a family outing.

Type of fishing: Lake Fishing Species you can find: Rainbow Trout, Redfin, Carp Rules or hazards: Fishing is only allowed in designated areas around the lake. Be aware of any fishing restrictions or rules in place.

For more information about fishing in Brimbank Park, visit here.

5. Anglesea

Anglesea, located along the Great Ocean Road, offers fantastic fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers. The coastal town is surrounded by pristine beaches, estuaries, and rivers, providing a diverse range of fishing spots. Whether you choose to fish from the beach, cast a line in the Anglesea River, or explore the nearby estuaries, you can expect to find species such as Australian salmon, flathead, bream, whiting, and mullet. Anglesea is also known for its picturesque scenery, making it an ideal location for a fishing getaway.

Type of fishing: Beach Fishing, River Fishing, Estuary Fishing Species you can find: Australian Salmon, Flathead, Bream, Whiting, Mullet Rules or hazards: Be aware of any fishing restrictions or rules in place. Take precautions when fishing from the beach, such as watching out for strong currents or tides.

For more information about fishing in Anglesea, visit here.

6. Portsea Pier

Portsea Pier, located on the Mornington Peninsula, offers a unique fishing experience with its stunning coastal views and diverse marine life. Whether you’re fishing from the pier or exploring the nearby rock formations, you can expect to find species such as snapper, whiting, flathead, garfish, squid, and salmon. The crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make Portsea Pier a popular spot for both fishing and snorkeling. After a successful day of fishing, you can relax on the nearby beaches or explore the charming town of Portsea.

Type of fishing: Pier Fishing, Rock Fishing Species you can find: Snapper, Whiting, Flathead, Garfish, Squid, Salmon Rules or hazards: Be cautious when fishing from rocks and watch out for strong currents. Respect the marine life and the surrounding environment.

For more information about fishing at Portsea Pier, visit here.

7. Barwon Heads

Barwon Heads, situated at the mouth of the Barwon River, offers excellent fishing opportunities for both recreational and professional anglers. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including bream, flathead, whiting, salmon, and mullet. You can choose to fish from the riverbank or hire a boat to explore the river further. Barwon Heads is also known for its stunning beaches, making it an ideal location for a fishing and beach getaway.

Type of fishing: River Fishing, Beach Fishing Species you can find: Bream, Flathead, Whiting, Salmon, Mullet Rules or hazards: Be aware of any fishing restrictions or rules in place. Take precautions when fishing from the beach, such as watching out for strong currents or tides.

For more information about fishing in Barwon Heads, visit here.

8. Flinders Pier

Flinders Pier, located on the Mornington Peninsula, is a popular fishing spot known for its abundance of flathead. The pier offers easy access to deep waters, making it an ideal location for catching a variety of fish species. In addition to flathead, you can also expect to find snapper, squid, salmon, trevally, and leather jackets. Flinders Pier is surrounded by stunning coastal scenery and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Type of fishing: Pier Fishing Species you can find: Flathead, Snapper, Squid, Salmon, Trevally, Leather Jackets Rules or hazards: Be cautious when fishing from the pier and respect the marine life and the surrounding environment.

For more information about fishing at Flinders Pier, visit here.

9. Sorrento Pier

Sorrento Pier, located in the coastal town of Sorrento, offers an excellent fishing experience with its stunning coastal views and diverse marine life. Whether you’re fishing from the pier or exploring the nearby rock formations, you can expect to find species such as snapper, whiting, squid, salmon, and flathead. Sorrento Pier is also a popular spot for families, with nearby picnic areas and beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Type of fishing: Pier Fishing, Rock Fishing Species you can find: Snapper, Whiting, Squid, Salmon, Flathead Rules or hazards: Be cautious when fishing from rocks and watch out for strong currents. Respect the marine life and the surrounding environment.

For more information about fishing at Sorrento Pier, visit here.

10. Bostock Reservoir

Bostock Reservoir, located in the outer suburbs of Melbourne, offers a peaceful fishing experience surrounded by natural beauty. The reservoir is stocked with various fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and redfin. You can fish from the banks or hire a boat to explore the reservoir further. Bostock Reservoir is a great spot for a day of fishing and picnicking, with picnic areas and walking trails available for visitors to enjoy.

Type of fishing: Reservoir Fishing Species you can find: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Redfin Rules or hazards: Be aware of any fishing restrictions or rules in place. Respect the reservoir and the surrounding environment.

For more information about fishing at Bostock Reservoir, visit here.

Key Things to Consider for Melbourne’s Best Fishing

When planning your fishing trip in Melbourne, there are several key things to consider to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Seasonality: Different fish species have different peak seasons. Research the best time to catch your desired species to increase your chances of success.
Tides and Moon Phases: Tides and moon phases can significantly impact fishing success. Learn how tides and moon phases affect your target species and plan your fishing trips accordingly.
Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before heading out. Extreme weather conditions can affect fish behavior and make fishing more challenging.
Fishing Gear and Bait: Use the appropriate fishing gear and bait for your target species. Research the best fishing techniques and equipment to maximize your chances of a successful catch.
Fishing Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations and rules in the area you plan to fish. Ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses and follow any size or bag limits in place.

Rules for Noxious Aquatic Species in Victoria

To protect Victoria’s aquatic ecosystems, there are rules and regulations in place regarding the presence of noxious aquatic species. Noxious aquatic species are non-native species that can have a negative impact on native fish populations and the overall ecosystem. It is important to be aware of these rules and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of noxious aquatic species. Some key rules include:

Do not release live bait or aquarium fish into waterways: This can introduce noxious aquatic species to new environments.
Drain water from boats and equipment: Ensure that your boat, fishing gear, and equipment are thoroughly drained before leaving a fishing spot to prevent the spread of noxious aquatic species.
Dispose of unused bait properly: Do not release unused bait into waterways. Dispose of it in designated areas or trash bins.
Clean and dry your fishing gear: Thoroughly clean and dry your fishing gear, including nets, lines, and hooks, to prevent the transfer of noxious aquatic species.

For more information about rules and regulations regarding noxious aquatic species in Victoria, visit here.

Fishing Licences in Victoria

To legally fish in Victoria, you are required to hold a valid fishing licence. Fishing licences help contribute to the sustainable management of fisheries and support conservation efforts. There are different types of fishing licences available, including:

Recreational Fishing Licence: This licence is required for recreational fishing in Victorian waters. It is available for different durations, including 1-day, 3-day, 28-day, and 1-year licences.
Abalone Licence: If you plan to fish for abalone, you are required to hold an Abalone Licence in addition to a Recreational Fishing Licence.
Rock Lobster Licence: If you plan to fish for rock lobster, you are required to hold a Rock Lobster Licence in addition to a Recreational Fishing Licence.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific fishing licence requirements and regulations before fishing in Victoria. For more information and to obtain a fishing licence, visit here.

How We Chose the Best Fishing Spots in Melbourne

The selection of the best fishing spots in Melbourne was based on extensive research, expert opinions, and personal experiences. Our team of fishing enthusiasts and editors carefully considered various factors, including species diversity, fishing accessibility, scenic beauty, and local recommendations. We visited each fishing spot, evaluated the fishing conditions, and took into account feedback from local anglers. The chosen fishing spots represent a diverse range of fishing experiences in Melbourne, ensuring that there is something for every angler.

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General FAQ

Q: Do I need a fishing licence to fish in Melbourne? A: Yes, a fishing licence is required to legally fish in Victorian waters. Make sure to obtain the appropriate fishing licence before your fishing trip.

Q: What is the best time of year to fish in Melbourne? A: The best time to fish in Melbourne can vary depending on the target species. Research the peak seasons for your desired species to increase your chances of success.

Q: Can I fish from the beach in Melbourne? A: Yes, beach fishing is a popular activity in Melbourne. Explore the coastal beaches and follow any local rules or regulations regarding beach fishing.

Q: Are there size and bag limits for fishing in Melbourne? A: Yes, there are size and bag limits in place to ensure sustainable fishing practices. Familiarize yourself with the specific size and bag limits for the species you are targeting.

Q: Can I fish with live bait in Melbourne? A: Live bait can be used in Melbourne, but it is important to dispose of any unused bait properly to prevent the introduction of noxious species.

Q: Are there any restrictions on fishing in marine parks in Melbourne? A: Yes, there may be restrictions on fishing in certain marine parks in Melbourne. Check the specific rules and regulations for each marine park before fishing.

Q: Can I fish in rivers and lakes near Melbourne? A: Yes, there are several rivers and lakes near Melbourne that offer great fishing opportunities. Research the specific fishing regulations and access points for each location.

As you explore the best fishing spots in Melbourne, remember to respect the environment, follow fishing regulations, and practice sustainable fishing practices. Enjoy the thrill of casting a line in Melbourne’s stunning waters and the possibility of reeling in a memorable catch. Happy fishing!