Mepps Spinners: a timeless lure of choice for catching trout

RECENT fishing conditions around the rivers feeding Lake Eildon have been mixed, with water levels fluctuating due to rainfall and summer heat. The Goulburn River below Eildon Pondage has seen steady flows, making for good fishing early in the morning and late afternoon. Water clarity has been decent, but recent storms have muddied up some sections. The Howqua and Jamieson Rivers have been running okay, though warm temperatures have made trout more sluggish during midday. Trout activity has been best in shaded, deeper runs and under overhanging vegetation. Anglers fishing pocket water and riffles in the early morning with spinners, particularly Mepps, have reported solid catches of brown and rainbow trout in the 25-40 cm range. Fly fishers have had some success with nymphs and terrestrials, but spinning with Mepps spinners has been the most consistent method for hooking up, especially in faster-moving water. Mepps Spinners – A timeless trout lure Mepps spinners have been around since 1938 when they were conceived in France by André Meulnart an engineer and angler. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality inline spinners, and in the 1950s, an American businessman, Todd Sheldon, popularised them in the United States and in Australia. Today, Mepps remains one of the most trusted brands for freshwater fishing worldwide, particularly for targeting trout in rivers. Performance in Victorian Trout Streams Mepps spinners have consistently proven to be one of the best lures for trout in the rivers around Lake Eildon. Their design features a rotating blade that creates vibration and flash, which mimics small baitfish and insects. This triggers aggressive strikes from both brown and rainbow trout, especially in faster currents. Key benefits of Mepps spinners in these waters: • Versatility – Whether fishing deep pools, fast runs, or shallow riffles, Mepps spinners work in nearly any water condition. • Effective in Clear and Stained Water – The blade’s flash and vibration make them an excellent choice when water clarity varies due to rain or runoff. • Reliable Hook-Ups – The sharp treble hooks provide solid hook sets, reducing the chances of losing fish. • Multiple Sizes and Colours – For local rivers, sizes #1 and #2 in gold or silver are ideal, while black fury and red/white patterns work well in overcast conditions. Anglers who have used Mepps spinners in the Goulburn, Howqua, and Jamieson Rivers report that a steady retrieve with occasional pauses often results in aggressive strikes. Fishing them upstream and retrieving with the current tends to work best. Mepps spinners remain one of the most reliable lures for catching trout in the rivers around Lake Eildon. If you’re looking for a proven, easy-to-use lure that consistently produces fish, you can’t go wrong with a Mepps in your tackle box.