Fyans looked magnificent... and almost was.
This weekend’s weather was glorious. Bright sunny days and a hint of spring. In contrast, two weeks ago, the weather was impressive but in a different way. We had a much needed and much appreciated deluge. In a day, we basically watched 100mm of rain fall from inside our warm cabin. Needless to say, not much fishing was done but a recon revealed flooded streams flowing into a rising Lake Bellfield. In short time, it seemed the lake clouded up very quickly.
Back to Bellfield
The first point of call this weekend with mate Eddie, was once again Lake Bellfield; an easy option considering the proximity to our accommodation.
Unfortunately though, the lake had not yet cleared. Visibility was perhaps 30cm at best. We half-heartedly fished it for an hour or so, knowing full well that despite a trout’s enhanced ability to see in muddy water, our chances of one actually seeing our flies were limited.
Although Bellfield looked great through the trees, up close it was still quite discoloured.
You know what? It’s challenging enough catching lake trout in good conditions let alone when visibility is so poor. We called it early and headed to the cabin for one of Ed’s famous Negronis and an early dinner.
Lake Wartook
The next day we headed to Lake Wartook. In my opinion, this water is the jewel in the crown of the Grampian lakes. Even at barely 40% full, it still looked as majestic as always.
Majestic Wartook.
Surprisingly however (the catchment is pristine and was unaffected by the summer bushfires further south) the water was a tad murky. A stiff ‘straight down the lake’ northerly was blowing, perhaps a contributing factor.
The fishing initially did not match the view! Pretty hard going until Ed picked up a nice ‘bow mid-afternoon. Thank goodness for that, some hope!
Ed's rainbow.
The rest of the afternoon into evening was slow, but on our way back to the car I noticed a few dimples, and some subtle movement on the water just a few metres out the wall. And then it all happened.
A frantic 20 minutes followed with my large black unweighted Emu Bugger proving to be the correct fly for the slightly tinged water.
First cast, just 2 metres from the bank, a follow that pushed a lot of water. Second cast a bit further out and a violent take resulted in a beautiful rainbow to the net. A few quick pics and back to the action.
The trout feeding right on the bank must have caught on that they were no longer safe despite the tasty morsels – possibly gudgeon – they were feeding on. I started casting a bit further out, at the same time noticing in my peripheral vision a piece of old pipe or hose sticking out of the water.
Then my 6 weight was almost wrenched from my hands. “Big fish!” I yelled to Eddie. I bent the rod to my left and away from the now larger-than-life obstacle a few metres to my right. I temporarily controlled the fish and saw its impressive dimensions. I was in awe as it rolled in front of me and then went on a powerful run… to my right! I tried to control it, but in an instant, my 2X tippet caught on that damned pipe. One to give me nightmares for a while!
We fished until dark, but no more action. Back to the ranch for pan-seared rack of lamb, roast potatoes, a tangy salad and a fine Pinot.
Consolation prize...
Lake Fyans
On our last day, on our way home, we spent a couple of hours at Lake Fyans; at almost 75% full, looking quite magnificent.
Polaroiding from elevated spots, I could see trout cruising along the shallow edges in crystal-clear water and then darting back into the green depths. I sighted four great fish. Scampering down the uneven bank for a cast, I had to be quick before the trout disappeared into the mysterious depths. I managed to connect with two, but again, I felt this was a bit of a missed opportunity.
Still, this trip did nothing to diminish the Grampians as one of my favourite destinations for lake fishing in Victoria. Very picturesque, easy to get too and the quaint township of Halls Gap on the doorstep of the three great lakes.
We had a ball. Great food, great company and almost great fishing!
