Australia’s Fishing Escape: Exploring the Best Destinations to Use Murray Cod Lures

Are you a fishing enthusiast? In that case, you must love to chase Murray cod, which might be one of the things in your travel bucket.

Any angler fishing in the ocean area of Australia would dream of catching Murray cod. The power, size, and the thrill of seeing one makes them a prized catch to most.

But, let’s say if you want to catch one, is a fishing rod and reel enough — we don’t think so. You need the right Murray cod lures and the best destinations to use murray cod lures in australia.

Don’t worry. We don’t intend to make it harder than it is. Through this guide, we have shared some tips, info, and locations where you catch a Murray Cod.

Introducing Murray Cod

Murray cod are Australia’s largest freshwater fish, growing over a meter long and weighing more than 40 kg. They’re aggressive predators, lurking in deep pools, under logs, and near submerged structures, ready to ambush prey. This fish thrives in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and reservoirs across southeastern Australia, including New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and southern Queensland.

Murray cod are most active in the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, especially around dawn and dusk. Knowing where they hide and what triggers their strikes is key to a successful fishing trip.

Top Travel Destinations for Murray Cod Fishing

First, we decided to start with the best destinations to use murray cod lures in australia.

1. Murray River (VIC/NSW/SA)

The Murray River is a great place for fishing. Here, you can find the right fishing destination across three states in Australia. Anglers love this place and often hang out here to fish Murray Cods.

You’ll find excellent fishing from Albury-Wodonga to the river’s lower reaches in South Australia. Houseboats, campgrounds, and fishing lodges make it a great travel experience. Key locations along the Murray River include:

Yarrawonga & Mulwala (VIC/NSW) – Go here for lure fishing and catch the perfect-sized Murray-Cod — just the way you dreamed of.
Swan Hill (VIC)—whether bank fishing is your thing or you love to take a boat out to grab the Murray Cods, this place is the right location.
Renmark (SA) – Provides great fishing opportunities with a mix of deep channels and submerged timber.

2. Lake Mulwala (NSW/VIC)

One of the finest and most famous places in Australia is Lake Mulwala. It’s a famous hideout for a good fishing experience. The flooded trees are the best hideouts for the anglers to lark behind and catch a Murray Cod. Anglers can target cod around submerged logs and snags in areas with plenty of structure.

3. Darling River (NSW/QLD)

If you are more into remote fishing, take a trip to the Darling River. It’s a great spot for incredible fishing. You can go fishing in the deep pools and along the undercut banks of the river. You can also be prepared for a rugged and rewarding trip if you can pack your camping equipment. For Murray Cod fishing, target key spots like Bourke to Wilcannia and Menindee Lakes System.

4. Goulburn River (VIC)

Flow through Victoria, the Goulburn River, to get a good fishing experience for Murray Cod in the lower reaches. It’s an ideal destination if you enjoy river fishing with lures and bait. The clear waters of the river are excellent places for sight fishing in slower-moving sections where cod hold near structures.

5. Macquarie River (NSW)

The Macquarie River provides excellent Murray cod fishing with plenty of structure to target. It’s a great spot for both beginners and experienced anglers, with a mix of deep pools and fast-flowing sections. This river is known for its healthy cod population. Areas around Dubbo and Wellington are the most productive.

Choosing the Best Murray Cod Lures for Your Trip

The right lure can make all the difference when targeting Murray cod. Choose wisely!

Surface Lures

Topwater lures like wake baits, paddlers, and frogs create an exciting surface strike. They work best in calm waters during dawn and dusk when cod are actively feeding near the surface. Large, noisy surface lures can trigger aggressive reaction strikes, making for thrilling fishing moments. Here are some personal recommendations:

Jackall Pompadour—A favorite for topwater action, creating plenty of noise and movement.
Kingfisher Mantis—Mimics struggling prey, ideal for night fishing.

Swimbaits and Soft Plastics

Realistic swimbaits and large soft plastics mimic the movement of baitfish—an excellent choice for targeting big cod. Slow and steady retrieves work best. Some of the most effective swimbaits for Murray cod include:

Megabass Magdraft—A lifelike swimbait that cod can’t resist.
Zerek Live Mullet—Perfect for slow, deep retrievals around submerged logs.
Savage Gear 3D Trout—Imitates a small fish, ideal for tempting big cod.

Spinnerbaits and Chatterbaits

These lures create vibration and flash, triggering aggressive strikes from Murray cod. They are great for fishing around submerged timber and rocks. Spinnerbaits with large blades work well in murky water, while chatterbaits provide an enticing wobble that can provoke strikes. Recommendations:

Bassman Spinnerbaits—A trusted choice among Murray cod anglers.
Z-Man Chatterbaits—Great for covering water quickly and locating active fish.

Deep Diving Hardbodies

When cod are holding deep, use hardbody Murrey cod lures that dive 3–6 meters. Crank them down to where the fish are hiding and retrieve them slowly for the best results. Some top choices include:

Oar-Gee Plough—A classic deep-diving lure perfect for river fishing.
Predatek Boomerang—Built for durability and deep-water action.
Halco Poltergeist—A deep diver with a strong, erratic swimming motion.

Travel Tips for Your Murray Cod Fishing Adventure

Planning a successful Murray cod fishing trip goes beyond just picking a destination and packing your tackle box. To make the most of your adventure, follow these travel tips:

Pack the right gear. You’ll need a heavy-duty rod (6-10 kg), a strong braided line, and a reliable bait caster or spin reel for handling big cod.
Check fishing regulations. Each state has a specific size and bag limit for Murray cod. Check those in advance. Catch-and-release is encouraged in all states to protect species.
Plan your accommodation. Most destinations offer camping spots, fishing lodges, or houseboats. Choose what suits you best and book in advance.
Consider a guided tour. If you’re new to Murray cod fishing, booking a guide can increase your chances of success and help you learn local techniques.

Happy Fishing

Murray cod fishing brings lots of good memories and is one of the adventurous feelings to have in life. It’s something that combines nature, travel, and the overall thrill of catching a fish. You can explore the vast Murray River or, cast in Lake Mulwala, or refer to this article for the best destinations to use murray cod lures in australia.

Plan your trip, pack your tackle, and go land one of Australia’s most iconic fish!

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