Fishing

The rivers and streams around Bright are renowned among anglers as some of the finest trout waters in Australia. With Morse Creek flowing right past Camp Crusty and the Ovens River just a short walk away, keen fishers will find themselves in paradise.

Morse Creek supports a healthy population of brown trout and rainbow trout, particularly in the deeper pools and runs upstream of the park. The creek is best fished with light tackle — small spinners, wet flies, or bait such as worms and mudeyes. The overgrown banks and clear water demand a stealthy approach, making this ideal water for experienced anglers who enjoy the challenge of stalking wary fish in small streams.

The Ovens River, accessible from several points within a few minutes' drive or a pleasant walk along the bike path, offers more open water and larger fish. The stretch between Bright and Harrietville is particularly productive, with deep pools, riffles, and runs that hold good numbers of trout throughout the season. Fly fishers will find excellent dry-fly water here, particularly during the evening hatches of summer when caddis and mayflies bring the trout to the surface.

For families, the Bright splash park on the Ovens River is a great spot to combine fishing with a picnic and swim. While the kids play in the shallow water, parents can cast a line into the deeper sections just upstream where trout often hold.

The trout season in Victoria runs from the first Saturday in September to the end of June. A Victorian recreational fishing licence is required for anyone over 18 and can be purchased online or from the general store in Bright. Catch-and-release is encouraged to maintain the health of these precious waterways.

Our staff are passionate anglers and happy to share local knowledge about current conditions, best flies, and productive spots.