Regulations
Min size: 300 mm Bag limit: 12 Method: All methods (bait, lures and flies) Season: 5/8/2023 - 28/4/2024
Latest stocking
| Date | Number | Species | Age | Weight (g) | Type | Stocked from | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22/08/2011 | 50000 | Rainbow Trout | Fingerling | 20 | Diploid | Inland Fisheries - New Norfolk Hatchery | |
| View stocking history... | |||||||
Background
Lake Echo is a large expansive hydro-electric impoundment with generally deep and clear water. Much of the lake is surrounded by steep sided eucalypt bushland although movement along the shoreline is reasonable owing to the large draw-down in lake level exposing expanses of rocky shore. Some larger areas of marsh occur along the north-western shore.
Getting There
From the south take the A10 north of Ouse and turn off on the C176 through Strickland then the C173 past Dee Lagoon. From the North turn off the A10 on to the C173 at Bronte Lagoon.
Recreational Fish Management
Lake Echo is managed as a Wild Trout Fishery. Brown trout and rainbow trout populations are maintained by natural recruitment.
Angling Notes
Trout are typically 0.75 to 1.5 kg with some larger fish captured. Lake Echo is a consistent producer of quality trout. Rainbow trout account for approximately ten percent of anglers' catch. All angling methods are permitted with bait, fly and lure fishing all being equally successful. During the warmer weather (December to April) prolific beetle falls occur and both brown and rainbow trout can be found rising. The timbered eastern and western shorelines are the best areas. Very good hatches of mayfly occur and can provide exciting fishing. Polaroiding from the steep shorelines on bright sunny days can also be successful. Lure fishing using deep diving lures or lead core lines are methods that consistently account for many fish. Loch-style fly fishing from a drifting boat is becoming popular at this water and often produces good bags. Shore based bait-anglers have many options open to them with set-rod bait fishing being very productive. Brocks Bay and the north eastern shoreline are the most popular areas. Good hatches of mudeyes occur in January and February.
Protect Waters
Recreational anglers have a responsibility to look after fisheries resources for the benefit of the environment and future generations. Do not bring live or dead fish, fish products, animals or aquatic plants into Tasmania. Do not bring any used fishing gear or any other freshwater recreational equipment that may be damp, wet or contain water into Tasmania. Check, clean and dry your fishing equipment before entering Tasmania. Do not transfer any freshwater fish, frogs, tadpoles, invertebrates or plants between inland waters. Check your boat, trailer, waders and fishing gear for weed and other pests that should not be transferred before moving between waters. Do not use willow (which is a plant pest) as a rod support as it has the ability to propagate from a strike.
Pest Fish Management
The pest fish, redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis) and tench (Tinca tinca) inhabit the Derwent system and are present within the lake. If either of these species are caught, anglers are asked to humanely kill the captured fish and dispose of appropriately.
Recreational Use
Please respect private property and abide by the access rules and code of conduct to ensure the continued use of these areas. Informal camping is permitted on the lakeshore. No facilities are provided. Campers should bring a portable or chemical toilet.
Boating
Boat anglers are reminded to take care as the lake is exposed and can become very rough. Hazardous conditions can occur at any time of the year with little warning. There are three formal launching areas at Lake Echo, at the dam at the southern area of the lake, Middle Echo approximately 4km north, and Large Bay at the north western end of the lake. Practice minimal impact boating by accelerating gently in shallow water to avoid the underwater wash from the propeller jet stirring up silt and mud. This sediment clouds the water, disturbs sensitive weed beds, smothers aquatic plants and degrades fish habitat.
Remember
Check Your wash - if it's white it's all right If it's brown slow down. Fishing From a boat within 100 Metres of an angler fishing from the shore is prohibited unless the boat is securely moored. Do not park on or obstruct boat ramps.
