The best places to go fishing – What you need to be looking for

A lot of first timers don’t get very excited when it comes to fishing and some may think fishing is dull and boring. As for me, I love fishing! and it’s because I know what to look for when it comes to a good fishing spot.

If you’re a beginner angler and had no prior luck. Felt like you just threw a line into the water with no bites. Then there are a few things you might be doing wrong.

When it comes to fishing there are a few basic things you have to get right. These include –

 

• The time of the day.
• Tide conditions.
• Research on the species you’re targeting.
• The type of bait or lure you’re using.
• The type of tackle – Rods, Reels, Hooks, and Rigs.
• Most importantly, Location, Location, and Location. Did I forget to mention the location!

 

The best places for fishing have some key characteristics that can be found anywhere in the world. However, I’ll be referring to hot spots where I’ve gone fishing before or have researched where fish are biting around Victoria, Australia.

   

Saltwater Fishing Locations

Saltwater fishing can be done in various ways and from various locations. Surf fishing for one is best done off beaches with long surf rods targeting Salmon, Tailor or any schooling fish around sand bars or drop-offs.

Saltwater marine fish can also be targeted from Piers, wharves, and jetties. A number of different species are available for you to catch that thrive and live around these man-made structures.

Falling into both saltwater and freshwater categories is estuaries. These brackish water conditions house a number of different species. Commonly Bream and Flathead are found in these waters.

  

Surf Beaches

Surf beaches are found in numerous locations in the world and can result in some great fishing conditions. When looking for surf fishing locations have in mind the type of species your targeting.

Having a general idea into fish patterns and behavior will give you an indicator as to where to locate them. Generally what you should be looking for when it comes to surf fishing is firstly the structure underneath the water.

Good fishing surf beaches will have various reef systems, gutters, and sand bar drop-offs. All these areas house a number of different species.

During low tide assess the beach for these structures. All these areas during low tide will be exposed and will give you key areas to target at high tide.

High tide results in baitfish coming into these areas to feed which results in predatory fish following close behind.

 

 

Victorian Hot Spots –

• Cape Woolami
• Gunnamtta Ocean Beach
• Killcunda Surf Beach
• Williamson’s Beach
• Venus Bay Surf Beach

  

Piers, Wharves, and Jetties

Man-made structures such as Piers, Jetties, and Wharves are the most accessible land-based fishing options we have and are located almost on every local beach.

Generally when looking for a good fishing spot assess for reef systems, deeper water, and any bait fish swimming around. These indicators often mean there are bigger predatory fish available to catch.

On most piers, I always look for what’s swimming around the pilons. Early mornings on clear days and water conditions you can find fish feeding on the mussels growing around these structures.

 

 

Victorian Hot Spots –

• Queenscliff Pier
• Lagoon Pier
• Lorne Pier
• Mornington Pier
• Rye Pier

  

Estuary

Estuaries are referred to the section of water where the river mouth meets the ocean. The water conditions here are known as ‘brackish water conditions’ which is a mix of freshwater and saltwater.

A number of different species call estuaries home and use the channels to travel through to open waters. Common species found within Victorian estuaries are Bream and flathead.

Similarly to most fishing locations always look for potential areas of refuge or feeding grounds for fish. Structures either man-made or natural for example fallen trees around banks, jetties, and boat ramps are all good areas to target.

 

 

Victorian Hot Spots –

• Werribee River
• Andersons Inlet
• Lake Tyres
• North Arm, Lakes Entrance

  

Freshwater Fishing Locations

Freshwater fishing similarly to saltwater marine fishing can be just as exciting. A number of different rivers, streams, lakes, and dams can be great fishing spots.

Freshwater fish can also be caught with either bait or lures and require similar setups. However, if using bait for freshwater fishing ensure you’re using natural baits that can be found in the habitat you’re fishing in.

  

Rivers and Streams

When it comes to freshwater fishing in rivers and streams it’s a good idea to find where natural baits are thriving, These can include minnows, insects, frogs, and other live baits. Generally, where ever these guys are predatory fish are close by.

Finding good fishing spots around rivers and streams always has the same characteristics. Structure, either man-made or natural. Ideally, target banks with overgrown trees where fish find refuge and hold a variety of different prey to feed on.

Weedy bottoms also hold a lot of different fish but at times can be quite snaggy. Don’t knock off shallow open waters either as some freshwater fish including trout can be targeted with fly fishing techniques.

 

 

Victorian Hot Spots –

• Tambo River
• Yarra River

  

Lakes and Dams

Lakes and dams all around the world can hold a variety of different freshwater fish and crustaceans. It’s always a good idea to talk to the locals in tackle shops to find out what’s been biting.

Similarly, any other fishing locations, always look for structure. Wherever fish can find refuge or feeding areas are always good areas to target.

A tip when fishing lakes and dams is to work lures around the banks as often you’ll find fish resting during sunny or hot days.

 

 

Victorian Hot Spots –

• Lake Eldon
• Lake Eppalock