FRESHWATER anglers from across Victoria are preparing for an informative and entertaining day at the 8th annual Murray Codference in Shepparton on Saturday 8 November 2025.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) CEO Travis Dowling said the free event features engaging presentations on our native fish resurgence and how to catch them from experts like Lubin Pfeiffer, Colby Lesko, Robbie Alexander, Andrew Colston and Alan Bonnici.
“Our Codference brings together passionate people who care deeply about Murray cod, plus it’s a great way to get ready for the summer cod fishing season ahead,” Dowling said.
The keynote speaker this year is Taka Kawasaki from Japanese tackle company Daiwa, who’ll talk about international trends in big fish technology. Taka is head of product development and Japan’s stable of pro-anglers and is keen to learn more about our iconic Murray cod while here at places like Lake Eildon, which is now one of Australia’s best cod fisheries thanks to our record-breaking fish stocking program.
Lubin Pfeiffer is back again, this time sharing his best native fishing experiences and lessons learned. Colby Lesko will countdown to the nation’s best impoundment cod fishery, while Gage Wright from Spinwright lures will tell the tale of his journey making spinnerbaits.
YouTube fishing personality and king of the kids Robbie Alexander will cover the social and mental health benefits that stem from wetting a line, while north-east specialist Andrew Colston will talk us through his clearwater cod fishing approaches.
For people coming up from Melbourne for the Codference, Alan Bonnici from FishingMad will identify 10 urban waters to catch a native fish this summer.
Cassie Price from OzFish will explain how fishers are standing up for river health and Steve Vidler from Fishtech Services will summarise his career which has been dedicated to building native fisheries that benefit anglers and conservation.
The VFA will share the latest on how we’re cracking the code of breeding Macquarie perch in captivity at Snobs Creek, along with the ongoing challenge of Australia’s carp infestation.
In the afternoon, the topic of live scoping will be debated by a panel, with audience input, during a session to be chaired by Steve Threlfall from local tackle store Trelly’s.
“The 2025 Codference will be more exciting than catching a metery off the surface, almost, so grab some mates and make the trip to Shepparton for a great day out,” Mr Dowling said.
This year’s event is at Riverlinks Eastbank from 9am until 4.30pm. Tickets are free, and lunch will be provided. To register or find out more, visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au/codference
