Our channel is about more than just fishing; it’s about friendship and having a great time on the water. Catching fish is simply a bonus. For us, enjoying the experience is what matters most.

On a chilly late June morning just after 3:30 AM, Brett decided to bring his young son along for an adventure. He gently roused him from sleep and settled him into the child seat of their cold vehicle. With wide eyes reflecting the glow of the headlights, they were set to head to Lake Eildon, some 150 km away from Melbourne. An hour into their journey, with the boat in tow and the car’s temperature sensor reading minus one degree Celsius, they were delighted to spot a couple of Samba Deer through the hills near Eildon.

Lake Elidon Trout Fishing

Arriving at Lake Eildon in the pitch-black early morning, surrounded by a few dim lights and the reflective beacon from a houseboat, they prepared the boat for launch. Despite the biting cold, Brett wore his usual shorts, unfazed by the weather, while I bundled up in layers and still felt the chill.

As the first light of the sun broke over the hills, the surrounding area came into view—low clouds ringed the hills halfway up, and a misty fog rose from the lake, creating an eerie yet captivating scene. Our destination for the day was Big River, rumored to be bustling with fish. We rigged four rods with a variety of lures and spent hours trolling along the tree-lined banks, changing tactics and lures but with no initial success.

Our perseverance paid off later when we finally hooked a small Rainbow trout, though it was too small to keep. Despite releasing several small catches, the excitement remained high, spurred on by a fellow angler’s success in landing what appeared to be a large Murray Cod.

After a morning of fishing, we took a break for lunch on a hilltop campground, enjoying the breathtaking view over the lake under the warm sun. The idea of camping here in warmer months was appealing, but for now, we were looking forward to checking into our boatel.

The return journey offered no new catches, but an encounter with two fishermen in need of a tow highlighted the camaraderie among those of us who share these waters. After helping them to safety, we settled into the boatel for the night. The next day, we resumed fishing and were rewarded with a beautiful Brown trout, validating our efforts and ending our trip on a high note.

Reflecting on the journey back to Melbourne, the scenic drive through the hills was as memorable as the fishing itself. It was a trip that underscored what our channel truly stands for: the joy of fishing is not just about the catch, but about the experiences and friendships forged along the way.

Written by Kenny