Fishing downstream of the weir off-limits

By Yarra Editor

Oct 22, 2024

The Murray River is currently closed to all forms of fishing between the Yarrawonga Weir wall and Tocumwal.

Fishers are reminded that the Murray River is currently closed to all forms of fishing between Yarrawonga and Tocumwal.

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The total fishing closure comes into place each year during September, October and November and extends from the Yarrawonga Weir Wall downstream for 101km to the Newell Highway Road Bridge at Tocumwal.

This stretch of the Murray River is known as the Trout Cod Protection Area (TCPA) and is home to one of the last wild populations of the endangered Trout Cod.

The total fishing closure has been in place for over 30 years and is vitally important in protecting Trout Cod during its spawning season to ensure the species continues to breed unharmed. The closure to all forms of fishing includes catch and release.

Water temperatures start to rise and flows increase around spring triggering many native fish species to migrate upstream to complete their breeding cycle.

Large numbers of native fish may aggregate around inland weirs making them vulnerable to fishers looking for an easy catch.

For this reason, total fishing closures exist year-round, both upstream and downstream of many inland weirs. These closures help protect our valuable native fish species during a critical stage of their life cycle.

Road-side display signs have been deployed to remind and educate the general public hoping to visit the area over the coming weeks.

Access points to the Murray River throughout the TCPA also display signs alerting the public to the closure.

Heavy penalties apply of up to $500 on the spot fines. To report illegal fishing, call the Fishers Watch reporting line on 1800 043 536

By Yarra Editor