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How to Fly Fish the Goulburn River
Nestled in the heart of Victoria, the Goulburn River is most likely the most popular trout river in Australia. Stretching over 500 kilometres, the Goulburn is famous for its reliable, season-long trout fishing opportunities, stunning scenery, and varied water types.
Known as a fly fisher’s paradise, the Goulburn is home to abundant brown and rainbow trout, making it a must-visit for anglers of all experience levels. Whether you’re chasing trophy trout or enjoying a peaceful day on the water, the Goulburn River offers an unforgettable flyfishing adventure.
Let’s explore how to make the most of your visit to this iconic river, including seasonal tips, gear recommendations, and proven techniques to help you land more fish.
1. Why Fly Fish the Goulburn River?
The Goulburn River is a dream destination for fly anglers, offering a variety of water types, plentiful fish, and excellent access points. Whether you’re on a solo adventure or booking a guided trip, the Goulburn has something for everyone.
What Makes the Goulburn Special?
• Accessibility: Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the Goulburn is ideal for day trips or extended stays. Popular access points like Thornton Bridge, The Breakaway, McMartins Road, Gilmore's Bridge and Killingworth Reserve provide ample opportunities to explore the river.
• Tailrace Fishery: The Goulburn is a regulated tailrace fishery, with cold, consistent flows from Lake Eildon ensuring excellent trout habitat season-long.
• Diverse Fishing Opportunities: From fast riffles and deep pools to long glides, the Goulburn accommodates dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer fishing alike.
• High Fish Density: Regular stockings and natural reproduction create a reliable trout population, with fish often ranging from 1-4 pounds and the occasional trophy exceeding 6 pounds.
• Excellent Sight fishing: The Goulburn River’s backwaters are perfect for sight fishing trout in high flows. You can spot primarily large brown trout cruising or feeding near structures in these calm, clear shallows. Stealth and precise casts with small nymphs or dry flies are key. Early mornings offer the best chance to connect with these elusive fish in a serene, rewarding setting.
2. When to Fly Fish the Goulburn River
Understanding the seasonal patterns of trout activity on the Goulburn River will help you maximise your success.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is one of the most exciting times of the season on the Goulburn. Low water releases from the Eildon Pondage provide excellent river structure, allowing for technical dry fly fishing with small caddis and mayfly patterns. European nymphing works excellently at this time of season if fish are not reacting to dry flies.
Summer (December to February)
Summer is dry fly heaven on the Goulburn. The river’s steady flows and abundant insect hatches bring trout to the surface. Look out for hopper falls, caddis hatches, and evening rises. On hot, humid days, termite and ant hatches provide thrilling surface action. Polaroiding the backwaters and in between willows provide some of the most thrilling and skill testing sight fishing.
Autumn (March to June)
As temperatures cool, trout feed aggressively to bulk up before winter. This is an excellent time for streamer fishing, with larger trout chasing baitfish patterns. Dry-dropper setups and nymphing also remain productive.
3. Essential Gear for the Goulburn River
Having the right gear is crucial for adapting to the Goulburn’s diverse water conditions and fishing techniques.
Fly Rods
A versatile fly rod is key for tackling the Goulburn. Opt for a rod that balances power and precision for dry flies, nymphs, and streamers.
We suggest:
• Orvis Helios F (8 to 9ft, 4 weight): Versatile for dry fly, dry dropper, and small streamer fishing.
• Vision Nymphmaniac Twintip (11’9’’, 3 weight): Ideal for Euro nymphing and fishing deeper runs.
Fly Reels
Choose a lightweight reel with a smooth drag system to handle the Goulburn’s trout.
We recommend:
• Lamson Guru S: Durable and well-balanced for freshwater use.
• Orvis Mirage LT: A reliable reel with excellent drag control for larger fish.
Fly Lines
Weight-forward floating lines are essential for dry fly fishing and nymphing, while sink-tip lines are useful for streamers.
Recommended lines:
Scientific Angler Amplitude Infinity: Versatile and effective across all water types.
Scientific Anglers Euro Tactical Nymph: Perfect for tight line nymphing setups.
Flies
A well-stocked fly box is crucial for adapting to the Goulburn’s changing conditions. Click right to see some must-have patterns:
4. Fly Fishing Techniques & Tips
The Goulburn River’s varied water types call for a range of techniques. Adapting your approach to the conditions will greatly improve your chances of success.
Nymphing
Nymphing is highly effective season-long, particularly in faster water and deep runs.
• When to Use: Cooler months or when trout aren’t rising.
• How to Rig: Use a two-fly setup under an indicator or tightline nymph with a longer rod for precision.
Dry Fly Fishing
The Goulburn’s prolific insect hatches make it a dry fly hotspot during summer and early autumn.
When to Use: Warm evenings or during major hatches.
How to Rig: Present a single dry fly upstream and let it drift naturally.
Streamer Fly Fishing
Streamer fishing is perfect for targeting aggressive trout in deeper pools and during low-light conditions.
When to Use: After rain or in murky water and in high flows.
How to Rig: Use a sink-tip line with a weighted streamer for maximum depth.
5. Guided Fly Fishing Goulburn River
For those new to the Goulburn or looking to improve their skills, guided fly fishing trips are a fantastic option. Professional guides can help you locate the best spots, refine your techniques, and provide valuable local knowledge to make your trip a success.
See Guided Fly FishingPlan Your Goulburn River Adventure Today
With its world-class trout fishery, stunning scenery, and easy access, the Goulburn River is a must-visit destination for fly anglers. Armed with the right gear, seasonal knowledge, and techniques, you’re sure to have a productive and enjoyable experience on the water.
For premium fly fishing gear, expert advice, and guided trips, visit The Flyfisher in South Melbourne or shop online. Our team is here to help you gear up and make your next Goulburn River adventure a success!
The Flyfisher's Podcast - Episode 25
How to Fly Fish the Goulburn River with Wilderness Fly Fishing's Scotty X.
Without a doubt there is a lot to learn about this spectacular trout fishery and there's no better bloke to chat with than our mate at Wilderness Fly Fishing, Scott Xanthoulakis. This tailrace fishery has its flow constantly adjusted for the requirements downstream, and these fluctuations are what make this fishery so good, but also so challenging.
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