Mallacoota - flathead fishing capital of Australia

Mallacoota

Mallacoota is a small fishing village in the north east corner of Victoria, probably closer to Eden in NSW than any major Victorian town. It’s a short drive off the Princes Highway, and for those in the know a place that they return to again and again.

Top 3 things to do and see

Fishing

Rumoured to be the flathead capital of Australia, Mallacoota is located on the Genoa and Wallagaraugh river systems into a lake which goes out into the Tasman Sea. A Victorian recreational fishing licence is required and you can catch bream, flathead, salmon, tailor, garfish, trevally, whiting and mullet. For family fun try prawning during the summer.

The lake system makes for easy boating with mooring facilities available for hire right on your doorstep as well as a number of purpose built fishing alcoves around the foreshore walk/cycle track.

Nature

There are a range of short walks along the lakeside, the beaches and through the Croajingolong National Park. The area is a classified World Biosphere Reserve and a key hub of Australia’s coastal wilderness.

Charter boats as well as short and day cruises enable you to see the lakes system at leisure.

WWII Historic Bunker Museum

Only open from 9am to 11am on Tuesday’s this bunker is run by volunteers and houses a huge collection of artefacts, photographs and the history of the war as it impacted the local community. Just a short drive from Mallacoota towards the airport.

Holiday options

This is a fishing destination, whether you have your boat, your kids, or want to take your dog, great access to waterways and good fishing facilities.

When to go?

Any time of year is good in Mallacoota, although it may be better to go before the crowds ‘fish out’ the lake. The township is very busy over the Christmas season right through until Easter so it’s always best to book ahead.

How to get there?

Just off the Princes Highway south of Eden once you cross into Victoria, or heading from Melbourne turn from the Princes Highway north of Orbost.

How long to go for?

If you’re a keen fisherman, then, given the location, you would want to stay for a week or two and take your boat.

Where to Stay? There are a huge range of great places to stay in Mallacoota.

Tourist Information

Check out www.visitmallacoota.com.au or pick up the visitor directory when you get there.