About the Goulburn
The upper Goulburn rises in the ranges near Woods Point and runs down through forest country past Jamieson into Lake Eildon. Up here it is freestone mountain water: clear, quick and full of pocket water, riffles and small pools.
Below the Eildon dam the river changes character. Water released from the bottom of the lake keeps the lower Goulburn cold and clear, and it runs through long glides, riffles and willow lined banks past Thornton and Alexandra. It holds brown and rainbow trout and is big enough to give an angler room to practise Euro nymphing and swinging flies through long runs.
Because the lower river is controlled by the dam, the flow can rise and fall with releases from Lake Eildon. John keeps an eye on the flows and picks the stretch that suits the day.
Where we fish on the Goulburn
Upper Goulburn
Woods Point down to Jamieson and Lake Eildon. Smaller, faster freestone water in forested hills.
Lower Goulburn
Eildon, Thornton and Alexandra. Bigger tailwater with long glides, riffles and willow banks.
John picks the stretch on the day, based on the season, the flows and what you want to get out of the trip.
A guided day on the Goulburn
On the lower Goulburn a day often suits anglers who want to learn Euro nymphing or work on reading bigger water. The upper river suits anyone who likes to walk and fish small pockets with a dry fly or nymph.
Every trip is a half or full day with John beside you on the water the whole time. Waders, boots, rods, reels and flies are all supplied, and catering is included. If your casting needs work before you hit the river, a casting lesson in Benalla is a good place to start.
Getting there
Eildon and Thornton sit about halfway between Mansfield and Alexandra. The river is within easy reach of Mansfield, Benalla, Shepparton and the northern suburbs of Melbourne.
Nearby towns: Eildon, Thornton, Alexandra, Jamieson, Woods Point.
Travelling further? See trips from Melbourne, Shepparton, Bendigo, Euroa, Seymour, Eildon, Alexandra, Yea or find your town.
