“Murray cod and golden perch are bringing people from all over the state. And now we’re about to extend the boat ramp another 15 metres to make it a 365-day-a-year launching ramp,” he said.
Rocklands Reservoir is also home to redfin and trout, making it a year-round fishery.
The reservoir has seen a major boost in outdoor recreation, with its annual economic contribution growing by 164 per cent in the past five years to $5.5-million, and visitation up 50 per cent to more than 25,000 people.
Mr Dimopoulos said Rocklands was among Australia’s most heavily stocked lakes.
“It is rapidly gaining a reputation for fantastic freshwater fishing for iconic native species,” he said.
“We know Victorians cherish time spent on the water with loved ones, which is why we continue to invest in better boating facilities including ramps.”
The Better Boating Fund invests all revenue from recreational boating licences and registration fees into upgrades and programs that benefit boaters.
Since 2021, more than $100-million has been invested into more than 50 ramp upgrades across Victoria, including at Rocklands, Toolondo Reservoir, Lake Lonsdale and Taylors Lake.
Mr Dowling said there was free camping around most of the lake.
“You can come, you can bring your dog to a lot of the places, and you can have a campfire,” he said.
“You can disconnect and leave your worries behind, it’s a beautiful place.
“Rocklands Reservoir is now the jewel in the crown of native fishing in Victoria.”
