Stalking trout along the Mitta Mitta

by Jarrod Day on 20 Apr 2012 Victoria’s high country might be known for its cattlemen and rugged bushland but it is within the rivers that attracts to the mountains. One particular location known as Omeo, amongst its majestic beauty boasts some amazing fishing throughout the year.

Just out of town, the Mitta Mitta River runs through the Alpine National Park, though forest and cattle farms and abounds with fish its entire length.

From April through to the closing of the trout season (June 30), anglers can hike the river either bait fishing, casting lures or flicking a fly.

Accessing the river: The river itself can be deep in parts and with limited access can be difficult to get to even though the potential of holding fish is high.

While the edges of the river do have good access, anglers hiking upstream will have to cross the river to the opposing side to gain further access. While this river doesn’t receive much fishing pressure, the fish are quite willing lure takers.



To begin fishing the river, the easiest access is at the Omeo Valley Rd. At the trestle bridge, anglers can walk left through farmland or to the right along the camp ground. While the fishing around the camp ground is productive, anglers will be more successful walking up stream.

The right outfit: Spinning for trout doesn’t require elite tackle rather a simple 7ft 2-4kg rod similar to that used for soft plastic fishing mounted with either a 1000 or 2500 series spin reel loaded with 4lb braid. This will enable angler’s accurate casting to the holes and snags where the fish will be hiding. Leader material should be either 4 or 5lb fluorocarbon allowing the fish to see the lure and not the line.

Lure selection: There are a million lures on the market ideal for trout fishing but I highly suggest using lures in the 50mm to 70mm length. Brands such as the Yo-Zuri Pins Minnow and HRT work extremely well with the most consistent colours being brown trout, rainbow trout and spotted dogs.

Spawning time: From May until the close of season larger trout begin their spawning cycle and head upstream. While it is an extremely long way to Lake Dartmouth from this section of the river, the trout begin their journey. Anglers armed with the right outfit and correct lures should begin to see fish up to 6lb and larger in this section of the river. It will pay to use larger lures in the 100mm length if these fish are intended on being targeted.

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