Big Fishing Thrills At Melbourne Lakes

26 August 2025 - 12:12 AEST26 August 2025 - 12:19 AEST

Big Fishing Thrills At Melbourne Lakes

Anglers across Melbourne can reel in some big thrills with huge rainbow trout ─ weighing up to 4 kilograms each ─ being stocked across 17 metropolitan lakes, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos announced the restocking across Melbourne taking place this week ahead of spring.

The annual stocking of 1,000 rainbow trout is supported through the Labor Government’s $96 million package to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture, with Victoria stocking more fish than all other states and territories combined.

The initiative provides fishers around Melbourne with access to the same ‘stonker’ trout that are stocked into the Eildon Pondage and Goulburn River each September to celebrate the opening of the trout fishing season.

These ripping rainbows take a variety of baits and are released into local lakes – many of which feature shore-based access, walking tracks and nearby facilities like playgrounds and barbecues, making for a great family day out.

The 1,000 huge rainbow trout are being stocked currently into the following 17 waterways. The locations are:

For regional Victorians who love to catch trout from the river, the season re-opens on Saturday 6 September. To celebrate, large trout will be stocked around Eildon as part of the Goulburn Fishing Festival which starts on 6 September.

The Ballarat Fishing Festival will be held the same day at Lake Wendouree, and each will feature kids’ fishing clinics, opportunities to release fish and a range of family-friendly activities.

As stated by Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos

“We know families are always looking for fun and cost-effective activities.

“Our nation leading fish stocking program is another reason for anglers big and small to enjoy the great outdoors, while supporting local businesses.”