FISHING for Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish (Euastacus armatus) in the rivers around Lake Eildon can be a rewarding experience for both amateur and seasoned anglers. These rivers offer a pristine habitat for the crayfish, thanks to their cool, clear waters and rocky substrates. Fishing Conditions and Techniques The ideal time to catch Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish is during the cooler months, typically from June to August, when they are most active. The best locations are found in deep pools, under rocks, and among submerged logs where the crayfish seek shelter. Anglers often use simple baited lines or collapsible crayfish traps. Chicken carcasses, fish heads, or pieces of meat make effective baits due to their strong scent, which attracts the crayfish. Setting traps in the late afternoon and retrieving them early in the morning tends to yield the best results. Make sure to secure the bait well inside the trap to prevent it from being washed away by currents. The use of a sturdy line and ensuring the trap is placed securely in the water are crucial to prevent loss. Legal Requirements To fish for Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish in Victoria, anglers must adhere to specific regulations to ensure sustainable fishing practices: 1. Fishing License: A current Victorian Recreational Fishing License is required, which can be purchased online or from authorised agents. 2. Seasonal Restrictions: Fishing for Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish is prohibited during their breeding season, typically from September 1st to May 31st, to protect the population during critical reproductive periods. 3. Size Limits: The legal size for Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish is a minimum carapace length of 10 centimetres. Any crayfish smaller than this must be returned to the water immediately to allow them to reach maturity. Maximum size is 12 centimetres. Females with eggs or young must be returned immediately. 4. Bag and Possession Limits: Anglers are permitted to take a maximum of 2 Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish per person per day, with a total possession limit of 4. 5. Equipment Regulations: Only certain types of equipment are allowed. Up to 10 lines with no hooks or a maximum of 5 collapsible crayfish traps per person are permitted. It's essential to clearly label traps with the owner's name and address. Conservation and Ethical Fishing Conservation of the Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish is crucial due to their slow growth and late maturity. Anglers are encouraged to practice ethical fishing by handling crayfish carefully to avoid injury, returning undersized or berried females (females carrying eggs) to the water, and adhering strictly to bag limits. Conclusion Fishing for Murray Spiny Freshwater Crayfish in the rivers around Lake Eildon offers a fantastic opportunity to engage with nature and contribute to sustainable fishing practices. By following legal requirements and practicing ethical fishing, anglers can help preserve this unique species for future generations. Whether you're a local or visiting angler, the experience promises not only a potential feast but also a memorable adventure.
