Best Specialty Flies for Australia

Flyfishing for Australia’s specialty species calls for a different approach. From Murray cod in the Murrumbidgee to estuary perch in the Hopkins River, these fish respond to targeted flies and tactical presentation. Each species pushes you to think like a predator and adapt to the conditions, which is exactly why specialty fly patterns exist.

In freshwater, it’s about flies that behave the way the fish expect. Cod flies need to push water, get down quickly and stay in the zone around deep snags. Carp dry flies need subtle movement and a soft footprint to tempt spooky fish in slow-moving creeks and still waters. Bass and perch eat with aggression, so surface poppers and articulated streamers shine around structure and in low light.

On the salt, patterns matter just as much. Whether you’re casting at luderick along Sydney’s harbour walls or searching for bream in estuary channels, fly choice influences your odds. The best specialty flies are designed with this in mind — built to track correctly, resist fouling and stay visible in dirty or moving water. They’re not just imitations. They’re tools for flyfishers who want to fish smarter.

Visit our Fly Shop in South Melbourne

Do you prefer to shop in store and speak to a fellow flyfisherman? Put the below address into your map and come say hello to our friendly team today:
• 211 Moray St, South Melbourne VIC 3205

STORE HOURS:
• Mon-Fri | 9am-5:00pm
• Saturday | 9am-2pm
• Sunday | Closed