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Fly Fishing in Tasmania
Tasmanian flyfishing offers some of the world’s best wild trout fishing, with naturally sustaining brown trout populations that reward skill and strategy. From the expansive highland lakes to tight, tree-lined freestone rivers, the island’s diverse fisheries demand precise casting, stealth, and an understanding of seasonal conditions. Sight-fishing for cruising browns, matching the hatch on spring-fed rivers, or tackling windswept wilderness lakes—each presents its own challenge.
Success comes down to reading the water, adapting to conditions, and being prepared. Wind, insect hatches, and subtle trout behavior can make all the difference, requiring a flexible approach. Whether you’re fishing Tasmania’s remote backcountry or more accessible waters, the right gear is essential. Shop online or visit The Flyfisher in South Melbourne for expert advice and the best fly fishing gear for Tasmania.
Best Tasmanian Fly Fishing Spots
Explore Tasmania’s top fly fishing destinations, from legendary highland lakes to productive freestone rivers. Each guide covers essential gear, fly recommendations, and expert tips to help you make the most of your next adventure.
Western Lakes
Meander River
St Pats River
Tyenna River
Great LAke
Lake St Clair &
St Clair Lagoon
Jim Allen - Flyfishing Tasmania
Parts 1 & 2 from The Flyfisher podcast
Jim has been fishing Tasmania since 1960 and few people could claim to have had as many days on the water in Tassie as Jim has.
In this part one chat with Jim, we talk about his love affair with Tasmania, and extract some hilarious stories. Jims vivid memories reveal how the fishing used to be in Tasmania; and as we got going, we realised this had to be a two part interview.
In part two we’ll be dusting off Jims detailed fishing diaries to discuss some of the more memorable entries. So stay tuned after giving this one a listen.
The Wild Trout Legacy
Tasmania’s trout fishing heritage dates back to 1864, when the first brown trout were successfully introduced from England’s Itchen River. This makes it the birthplace of trout fishing in the Southern Hemisphere, with a lineage of wild fish that has remained self-sustaining ever since. Unlike other regions that rely on hatchery stocking, Tasmania’s trout populations thrive entirely through natural reproduction. This means every fish is wild, conditioned by its environment, and requires a thoughtful, skilled approach to catch.
Anglers who fish Tasmania’s lakes and rivers must adapt to these trout’s selective feeding habits and cautious nature. Sight-fishing in clear water, matching local hatches, and understanding seasonal movements are essential to success. Catch-and-release practices have also played a vital role in maintaining this wild fishery, ensuring future generations can experience the thrill of targeting one of the world’s most revered brown trout populations.
Mastering Polaroiding in Tasmania
Polaroiding—spotting and stalking trout using polarized sunglasses—is a game-changer for Tasmanian fly fishing. The island’s highland lakes, such as Great Lake and the Western Lakes, offer world-class sight-fishing opportunities, where flyfishers scan the shallows for cruising brown trout. This technique is often compared to saltwater flats fishing for bonefish, requiring patience, a stealthy approach, and precise casting.
Success comes down to timing and observation. Calm, sunny conditions provide the best visibility, allowing flyfishers to track trout as they move along lake edges or over weed beds. Wearing high-quality polarized sunglasses cuts through surface glare, revealing fish that would otherwise go unnoticed. When a target is spotted, slow movements, long leaders, and delicate presentations are key to convincing Tasmania’s educated brown trout to eat.
Spring snowmelt and seasonal rains create higher flows, pushing fish into sheltered feeding zones along banks and behind structure. During summer, low, clear water makes trout wary, requiring lighter tippets and precise presentations. Flyfishers who monitor real-time water data and adapt their approach—whether that’s switching to streamers in high flows or small dries in technical conditions—will find success across Victoria’s rivers.
Understanding Tasmania’s Seasonal Fly Hatches
Summer hatches transform Tasmania into a dry-fly paradise, with prolific mayfly activity in iconic fisheries like Penstock Lagoon, Little Pine Lagoon, and the Meander River. These waters come alive with rising trout, rewarding anglers who can accurately match the hatch with well-presented emergers and duns. On warm afternoons, spinner falls create extended feeding windows, making timing critical for success.
Beyond mayflies, Tasmania’s trout key in on terrestrial insects throughout summer. Gum beetles, ants, and grasshoppers blown onto the water trigger aggressive takes, especially in the highland lakes. Flyfishers who carry a mix of dry flies imitating these land-based insects can capitalize on some of the most exciting surface action of the season.
Preparing for Tasmania’s Weather
Tasmania’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, demanding a layered approach to clothing and high-quality waterproof gear. The highland lakes can go from warm sunshine to cold, wind-whipped conditions in minutes, so flyfishers must be ready for rapid changes. Breathable waders, insulated base layers, and a reliable waterproof jacket are essential for comfort and protection against the elements.
Wind is another major factor, often dictating casting strategies. Strong gusts make long leaders difficult to manage, so flyfishers should adjust by shortening their leaders and using powerful, fast-action rods for greater control. In extreme conditions, positioning becomes just as important as technique—angling with the wind rather than against it can make all the difference when delivering a precise, drag-free presentation.
Australia's #1 Flyfishing Shop
Established in 1967, The Flyfisher is the leading Australian provider of quality flyfishing equipment, accessories and advice. We stock leading fly brands like Simms, Orvis, Scientific Anglers, Sage and much more to give you the widest AND best range.
We pride ourselves on housing name-brand flyfishing rods, reels, wading gear, flies, accessories and apparel for the ultimate success on the water. We love chatting to fellow flyfishers so please feel free to reach out with any quesstions.. so, why go anywhere else?
A: 211 Moray Street, South Melbourne, VIC, 3205
P: (03) 9621 1246
E: shop@theflyfisher.com.au