Fishing and Recreation Hotspots Along the Murray River

Guides | Holiday Planning | Mildura Sunraysia | Riverscape

A Practical Guide for Anglers and Adventure Seekers Around Mildura

There is something special about waking up on a houseboat, stepping onto the deck with a coffee in hand, and watching the Murray River come alive. For many visitors to Mildura, fishing is part of the experience. For others, it is the reason they come.

The stretch of Murray River around Mildura offers over 100 kilometres of accessible waterways, backwaters, lagoons, sandbars and river bends that create outstanding opportunities for both fishing and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re chasing the iconic Murray Cod, looking for a relaxing family fishing session, or exploring the river by kayak, there is always somewhere new to discover.

A houseboat holiday with All Seasons Houseboats allows you to take your accommodation directly to the fishing grounds while enjoying the freedom to explore the river at your own pace.


Why the Mildura Region is a Fishing Paradise

The Murray River around Mildura offers a unique mix of:

  • Deep river channels
  • Timber snags and fallen red gums
  • Sandy beaches
  • Backwater lagoons
  • Wetlands and billabongs
  • Remote stretches with little boat traffic

These varied environments support a healthy range of native and introduced fish species while providing endless opportunities for recreation and exploration.

The river also benefits from year-round accessibility, making it a destination that can be enjoyed in every season.


Fish Species Found Around Mildura

Murray Cod

The king of the Murray River.

Murray Cod are Australia’s largest freshwater fish and one of the most sought-after catches in the country. They thrive around submerged timber, river bends and deep pools.

Best season:

  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Early autumn

Common techniques:

  • Surface lures
  • Spinnerbaits
  • Large hard-body lures
  • Bait fishing

Murray Cod can grow to impressive sizes and catching one is often a bucket-list experience for anglers visiting the region.


Golden Perch (Yellowbelly)

Golden Perch are one of the most popular fish for recreational anglers due to their fighting ability and excellent eating qualities.

Best season:

  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn

Common locations:

  • Timbered river edges
  • Snags
  • Backwaters

Common techniques:

  • Spinnerbaits
  • Soft plastics
  • Shrimp and bait fishing

Silver Perch

Silver Perch can be found throughout sections of the Murray and are often targeted by anglers seeking native species.

Best season:

  • Spring through autumn

Common techniques:

  • Worms
  • Shrimp
  • Small lures

Redfin Perch

Redfin are an introduced species that provide great fishing opportunities, especially for families.

Best season:

  • Autumn
  • Winter
  • Spring

Common techniques:

  • Soft plastics
  • Small hard-body lures
  • Bait fishing

They often school together, making for exciting sessions when a productive area is located.


European Carp

While considered a pest species, carp are widespread throughout the Murray system and provide plenty of action for younger anglers.

Best season:

  • Year-round

Common techniques:

  • Corn
  • Dough baits
  • Worms

Popular Fishing Areas Around Mildura

Mildura Weir Area

The waters surrounding the weir often attract a variety of species due to changing currents and oxygen-rich conditions.

Popular for:

  • Golden Perch
  • Murray Cod
  • Redfin

Lock 11

One of the most recognised fishing locations in the region.

The deeper water and structure create excellent opportunities for native fish.

Apex Park to Psyche Bend

This stretch offers accessible shoreline fishing as well as productive boating opportunities.

Highlights include:

  • Snag fishing
  • Scenic river views
  • Family-friendly access

Nangiloc and Colignan

Located upstream from Mildura, these quieter stretches provide a more remote river experience.

Popular for:

  • Murray Cod
  • Golden Perch
  • Wildlife viewing

Wentworth Region

Near the confluence of the Murray and Darling Rivers, this area creates unique fishing opportunities due to the meeting of two major waterways.

Popular for:

  • Murray Cod
  • Golden Perch
  • Recreational boating

More Than Fishing

A Murray River holiday is about far more than what is on the end of your fishing line.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Explore hidden backwaters and narrow channels inaccessible to larger vessels.

Many visitors discover secluded beaches and wildlife viewing areas that cannot be reached by road.

Wildlife Watching

The Murray is home to:

  • Pelicans
  • Sea Eagles
  • Egrets
  • Cormorants
  • Kangaroos
  • Echidnas

Birdwatchers regularly spot dozens of species during a single day on the river.

Swimming and Sandbars

The Mildura region features numerous sandy beaches perfect for:

  • Swimming
  • Relaxing
  • Family picnics
  • Watching sunsets

Photography

The combination of ancient River Red Gums, wide-open skies, changing river conditions and spectacular sunsets makes the region a dream for photographers.


Houseboating Gives You Access Others Miss

One of the biggest advantages of a houseboat holiday is mobility.

Rather than returning to the same boat ramp each day, you can:

  • Follow productive fishing areas
  • Stay overnight in remote locations
  • Fish dawn and dusk without travelling
  • Explore different stretches of river each day
  • Combine fishing with relaxation and sightseeing

The result is a far more immersive Murray River experience.


Creating Everlasting Connections on the Water

Some of the best memories are not necessarily the biggest fish caught.

They are the early morning conversations on the deck. The excitement of a child landing their first fish. The sunset barbecue after a day exploring hidden bends of the river. The stories shared long after the lines have been packed away.

The Murray River around Mildura offers a rare combination of fishing, adventure, wildlife and freedom. Whether you’re chasing Murray Cod, exploring secluded backwaters or simply enjoying time together on the water, a houseboat holiday creates the space to slow down, reconnect and experience one of Australia’s great river landscapes.


Plan Your Murray River Adventure

Explore the All Seasons fleet
Discover itinerary ideas


References

Victorian Fisheries Authority – Recreational Fishing Guide
Visit Mildura – Murray River and Regional Information
All Seasons Houseboats – Mildura Region Guide


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

+ 18 = 22
Powered by MathCaptcha