Lake Buninjon in Ararat: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Lake Buninjon is listed under Ararat, Victoria. The land about it is pine and hardwood. Surface area runs to roughly 2.93 sq km, so plan for one area rather than the whole. The shoreline runs about 7.4 km, so it pays to pick a stretch and stay with it. It sits higher than most water we list in Victoria. The closest town, Ararat, is 24 km distant. Beyond it, Stawell at 47 km and Beaufort at 53 km. It sits well inside its county, with no border complications.

• Where to Fish on Lake Buninjon

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. The shallow end warms first and pulls fish in ahead of the rest. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Public wildlife records from this area list shortfin eel, tench, common carp and goldfish. Local agencies keep the authoritative list for each water. Lake Buninjon gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Averages move between 8°C in July and 19°C in February. Summer heat is the limit here, not winter cold. Levels swing with the wet season, which moves the fishing about. Summer, December to February, brings heat, so fish early and late. It sets the rhythm of the year at Lake Buninjon.

• Tackle & Baits

  Whether the bank is open is not something our records settle. No dam controls it, and the level follows the season. The water borders Lake Buninjon Wildlife Reserve (hunting), so expect the reserve rules to apply. For the carp, bait a margin spot and sit on it; corn and bread still work. Where a permit is needed, the nearest town usually sells it. Some water is controlled locally without a sign saying so. Lake Muirhead at 16 km is the sensible second choice. Nothing here settles the position at Lake Buninjon for certain.