Murray cod grow past 1.3 m, live for decades and hold in specific timber and rock structure within their home river reach. They are an ambush predator that rarely moves far to feed.
The species is closed to fishing during the spring spawning period in most jurisdictions — always check current state regulations before planning a trip.
Where cod live
Cod hold on submerged timber, undercut banks, rock bars and deep holes with current flowing past. The single best structure in most rivers is a large fallen tree in deeper water at the head of a hole.
They face into the current and sit in the slack immediately behind an obstruction. Casting must land tight to the structure — a lure a metre off is usually a lure ignored.
In impoundments, cod relate to standing timber, rock walls and points, and will suspend over deep water when chasing bait.
Lures and presentations
Spinnerbaits of 1/2 to 2 oz are the most forgiving cod lure: they come through timber, cover depth and can be slow-rolled along a bank.
Large surface lures fished at dusk and after dark in warm months produce the most spectacular strikes of any Australian freshwater fishing. Retrieve slowly and steadily.
Swimbaits and large hard-bodies suit deep holes and trolling along river bends. Trolling is an efficient way to locate fish in unfamiliar water before switching to casting.
Tackle
A 6' baitcaster rated 10–20 kg with 50–80 lb braid and 60–100 lb leader is the standard casting setup. This is not overkill: cod bury into timber instantly and light gear costs fish and lures.
Set the drag firm and stop the fish's first run. A cod that reaches structure is usually lost, and it may leave a lure in its jaw.
Use a large knotless landing net and unhooking mat, and carry heavy split-ring pliers and bolt cutters.
Handling a fish you will release
Cod are long-lived and slow-growing; large fish are irreplaceable breeders. Nearly all serious cod anglers release everything.
Keep the fish horizontal and support the belly. Never hang a big cod vertically. Use a wet mat, keep hands wet and minimise air exposure.
Revive in flowing water facing upstream until it swims off strongly. In warm water this can take several minutes.
Key takeaways
- ▸Cast tight to timber — a metre off is a wasted cast.
- ▸Spinnerbaits are the most forgiving all-round cod lure.
- ▸Heavy gear is necessary, not optional.
- ▸Check closed-season dates in your state before fishing.
This guide is general information only. Fishing regulations differ by state and change regularly — confirm current rules with your fisheries authority before you fish.