State Forests and Wetlands

The Gannawarra Shire features many significant rivers, swamps and wetlands.

Gunbower Island

The largest, extending over 26,000 hectares with 19,500 hectares of forest and 1,200 hectares of marshes and waterways. Visitors can expect to see many of the 260 species of bird life and animals that inhabit these wetlands, which are flooded regularly by the mighty Murray river

Kerang Wetlands

Stretching from Kerang in the south to Lake Boga in the northwest there stretches a system of lakes known as the Kerang Lakes or Wetlands. These Wetlands are home to thousands of colourful and graceful water birds. Sea eagles, herons, kites, spoonbills, coots and ibis abound throughout the wetlands area. Every spring thousands of ibis flock to breed in the Reedy Lake sanctuary. The Ibis Rookery or bird hide just north of Kerang off the Murray Valley Highway offers photographers the setting for spectacular shots of abundant bird life.

North of the Reedy Lakes system lies another large lake system with Lake Charm, Lake Boga and Kangaroo Lake to name a few. This extensive lake system offers a playground for every water sport imaginable.

Gunbower Island

Within the region are many state forests with river access providing the perfect campsite for a weekend or extended stay. Choose from Gunbower Island, Koondrook, Campbell’s Island, Leiwa and Werai State Forests. With good access during dry weather these areas also provide a great escape for a relaxing 4WD experience or cycle through the towering gums. If you are a day visitor in the region take the time to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the natural beauty of these majestic forest areas.

Fishing

The Gannawarra Shire provides recreational anglers with a myriad of waterways for fishing. The Murray River is a popular choice and is accessible via Murrabit, Koondrook, Cohuna and Leitchville. Popular lakes include Lake Charm, Kangaroo Lake and Lake Meran. Just over the border into NSW and you can try your luck in the Wakool, Neimur or Edwards Rivers. Gannawarra is your freshwater fishing capital!

Murray Cod
Fishing for Murray Cod is not permitted during a closed season from September 1 to November 30. Best fishing is in snags, covered places with running water and not necessarily deep water. Ideal baits include worms, yabbies, bardi grubs and lures. A size limit of 50 cm applies as well as bag limits.

Golden Perch
(Yellow Belly)
Best fishing is in deep back water holes, not fast running. Perch will bite on worms, shrimp, yabbies and lures. Size and bag limits apply.

Freshwater Crayfish
(Murray Cray)
Best fishing from a boat in the months without an “R” in deep water about 8-10 metres deep. European Carp are a popular “cray” bait.

Trout Cod
Is totally protected in both NSW and Victoria.

Further information

Recreational fishermen need a licence to fish in NSW and Victorian freshwater rivers and dams. A NSW fishing licence is required for fishing in the Murray River. Those less than 18 years and holders of certain Commonwealth pensioner cars and Aboriginal people are exempt from holding a licence.