Fishing in Yarra Ranges National Park

Yarra Ranges National Park protects the steep forested catchments east of Melbourne where several rivers begin their runs toward the lowlands.

The park's waters are cold, clear, and largely undisturbed — the kind of environment that suits trout and little else in the way of target species for anglers. The Yarra River downstream from the Upper Yarra Dam is the park's most accessible trout water.

Brown and rainbow trout both hold here, and the stretch around Warburton gives a practical entry point — road bridges mark where you can step in and work your way along the river.

The current runs faster and deeper than the lower Yarra, with rock and timber structure that rewards a methodical approach.

Armstrong Creek, a small tributary that widens from around 3 metres upstream to 6 metres at its lower end, holds brown trout alongside river blackfish and short-finned eels.

Note that there is no fishing upstream of the onstream diversion dam on Armstrong Creek, where water is diverted into Melbourne's supply system. The upper Taggerty River is the other water the park's management plan singles out for trout fishing.

Like the Yarra headwaters, it sits in remote forested country and sees far less pressure than the more accessible reaches downstream. Spring and autumn tend to bring the most reliable conditions — water levels are better and temperatures suit active fish.

Access to most of these waters follows the same pattern: find where a road meets the water and fish from there. A Victorian Recreational Fishing Licence is required for anyone 18 and over.

Because this is a national park, check current regulations with Parks Victoria before you go — some waters or sections may carry specific restrictions beyond the standard state rules. The Victorian Fisheries Authority holds current size and bag limits.

These headwaters feed Melbourne's drinking supply. That context shapes how the park is managed and why some sections are closed entirely. Fish carefully, pack out everything, and treat the water accordingly.