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Fly Fishing in Victoria
Victoria’s rivers offer some of Australia’s most dynamic fly fishing, from fast alpine streams to deep tailraces holding wild brown and rainbow trout. Seasonal shifts create new challenges—spring snowmelt fuels aggressive feeding, summer hatches bring peak dry-fly action, and autumn offers prime conditions for targeting trophy fish.
Success comes down to understanding flow rates, insect cycles, and reading the water with precision. Whether nymphing pocket water or swinging streamers through deep pools, technical skill is key. Gear up for your next Victorian fly fishing adventure with the best rods, reels, waders, and flies at The Flyfisher. Shop online or visit our store at 211 Moray Street, South Melbourne.
Best Victorian Fly Fishing Spots
Discover the best flyfishing destinations near Melbourne and the wdier state of Victoria. Each resource highlights the gear you need, recommended flies and essential tips before your next adventure!
Victorian Fly Fishing Map
Western Victoria - Winter Lake Fishing Predictions
As the river season draws to a close, we shift our focus to the lakes. To fill us in on which lakes are in good shape, we chat with Philip Weigall and get the good oil.
listen nowThe Evolution of Victorian Fly Fishing
Fly fishing in Victoria has deep roots, dating back to the late 1800s when British settlers introduced trout into the region’s rivers and lakes. Early stocking efforts focused on brown and rainbow trout, heavily influenced by Tasmania’s successful wild fisheries. By the early 20th century, Victoria had become a premier trout fishing destination, with rivers like the Goulburn, Mitta Mitta, and Kiewa developing strong, self-sustaining populations. These early fish stocks, coupled with ongoing stocking programs and habitat conservation efforts, helped shape Victoria’s diverse fly fishing landscape.
Over time, techniques and gear have evolved, and today’s flyfishers benefit from high-performance rods, advanced fly lines, and a deeper understanding of fish behavior. Clubs and guiding services have played a crucial role in refining techniques like Euro nymphing and streamer fishing, giving modern flyfishers more tools to succeed. With catch-and-release now widely practiced, Victoria’s wild trout fisheries continue to improve, offering some of the best fly fishing in Australia.
Understanding Victorian River Flows
Victoria’s river systems are constantly changing, and understanding their flow patterns can significantly impact your success on the water. Tailrace rivers like the Goulburn provide reliable flows all year, thanks to controlled dam releases, making them ideal for consistent fishing. In contrast, freestone rivers such as the Ovens, Delatite, and Mitta Mitta are highly responsive to rainfall and snowmelt, meaning flows fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. Recognizing these patterns helps flyfishers plan trips strategically by targeting the best conditions for their preferred techniques.
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.
Victoria’s Catch & Release Culture
Victoria’s trout fisheries have flourished due to a strong catch-and-release culture, bolstered by regulations from the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA). These guidelines, including seasonal bag and size limits, are designed to protect fish stocks and promote sustainable angling. Flyfishers are encouraged to use barbless hooks for quicker, less harmful releases, enhancing fish survival rates.
While certain rivers benefit from stocking programs, such as those managed by the VFA’s Snobs Creek Hatchery, many of Victoria’s premier trout waters depend on natural reproduction. This reliance underscores the importance of responsible fishing practices. Collaborative habitat restoration projects, involving organizations like the Arthur Rylah Institute, further support these ecosystems. By adhering to ethical angling and handling practices, flyfishers play a vital role in preserving these exceptional fisheries for future generations.
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