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How to Rig for Murray Cod

Maccullochella peelii

Murray cod are Australia's largest freshwater fish, living in the Murray-Darling river system and stocked impoundments, where they hold tight to fallen timber, rock bars, and deep holes. Big baits like yabbies and bardi grubs fished right beside the snag, or large lures cast into the timber, are the main methods. They are managed with a spring closed season and slot limits, and many anglers release the big breeding fish.

Answer at a glance
Best rig
Fish-Finder Rig
Best bait
Yabbies, bardi grubs, shrimp, or a scrub worm bunch fished still beside snags and deep holes
Where
river, lake
Typical size
20–40 in
Season
Best from December to May. Most states close the fishery through the spring spawning period, roughly September to November. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Fish-Finder Rig

beginnerriver · lake

The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

  • Main line15-20 lb monofilament
  • Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
  • Hooks2/0 - 6/0 suicide or circle hook
  • WeightRunning ball sinker, 1/2 - 2oz, down to the hook or a swivel
  • Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
  • BaitYabbies, bardi grubs, shrimp, or a scrub worm bunch fished still beside snags and deep holes
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Realistic Carolina Rig fishing rig setup
Carolina Rig
A long leader trails behind a sliding weight, letting soft plastics or cut bait drift naturally near structure.
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Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

FishBase species profile ↗State and territory fisheries agencies ↗Editorial methodology

Fishing regulations vary by location and season. Check current local regulations before fishing.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-26

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Murray Cod?

The Fish-Finder Rig is the top recommendation for Murray Cod. The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

What bait works for Murray Cod?

Check the recommended rig cards above for bait notes specific to Murray Cod.

When is the best time to catch Murray Cod?

Best from December to May. Most states close the fishery through the spring spawning period, roughly September to November. Southern Hemisphere seasons: summer is roughly December to February and winter June to August.. Typical size runs 20–40 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Murray Cod?

Murray Cod is caught while river, lake fishing. Murray cod are Australia's largest freshwater fish, living in the Murray-Darling river system and stocked impoundments, where they hold tight to fallen timber, rock bars, and deep holes. Big baits like yabbies and bardi grubs fished right beside the snag, or large lures cast into the timber, are the main methods. They are managed with a spring closed season and slot limits, and many anglers release the big breeding fish.