About The Flyfisher
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Last updated: August 2026
The Flyfisher is an Australian specialist flyfishing retailer established in 1967. We sell flyfishing gear online throughout Australia and operate specialist fly shops in South Melbourne and Yea, Victoria.
We stock one of Australia’s largest ranges of flyfishing equipment, including fly rods, fly reels, fly lines, flies, waders, wading boots, leaders and tippet, fly tying materials, packs, clothing, accessories and complete flyfishing outfits.
The depth of the range matters. We do not operate as a general tackle store with a small fly section. Flyfishing is the focus of the business. Our team fishes, tests and rigs this equipment and helps customers choose gear for everything from small-stream trout and Victorian lake fishing to Murray cod, Australian saltwater and international destinations.
The Flyfisher: Key Facts
- Business name: The Flyfisher
- Established: 1967
- Business type: Specialist Australian flyfishing retailer
- Flagship store: 211 Moray Street, South Melbourne, Victoria 3205
- Second store: The Flyfisher Yea Local, 36 High Street, Yea, Victoria 3717
- Online store: theflyfisher.com.au
- Phone: (03) 9621 1246
- Email: shop@theflyfisher.com.au
- Products: Fly rods, reels, lines, flies, outfits, waders, boots, leaders, tippet, fly tying materials, packs, clothing and accessories
- Services: Flyfishing equipment advice, professional rigging, casting tuition and connections with professional flyfishing guides
- Customers: Australian flyfishers from beginners buying their first outfit through to experienced freshwater, saltwater and travelling anglers
Flyfishing Gear at The Flyfisher
A good flyfishing setup works as a system. Rod action, line taper, leader construction, fly size, target species and fishing environment all affect how the outfit performs.
That is why our range goes deeper than simply offering different price points. We stock equipment for distinct techniques, species and fisheries and help customers put the right components together.
Fly Rods
Our fly rod range covers general trout fishing, small streams, lakes, Euro nymphing, Murray cod, spey and saltwater flyfishing. We stock rods from Sage, Orvis, Scott, Vision, Primal, Guideline, Hardy, G. Loomis, R.L. Winston and other established manufacturers.
For Victorian river trout, a 9-foot 5-weight remains one of the most versatile all-round setups. Move onto smaller streams and a shorter, lighter rod can make more sense. Lake fishing, heavier nymph rigs and streamer fishing can call for more power, while Murray cod and saltwater fishing require rods capable of turning over much larger flies and controlling stronger fish.
Rod action also changes how a rod feels and performs. A presentation-focused trout rod is designed for a different job from a fast, powerful rod built to generate line speed into wind or carry large flies.
Popular examples in the premium end of the range include the Sage R8 Core and Orvis Helios series. The Sage R8 Core is a versatile freshwater rod with a smooth, refined action that suits a wide range of trout fishing. The Orvis Helios F is designed around presentation and accuracy, while the Helios D provides more power for wind, larger flies and demanding applications.
Fly Reels
A fly reel needs to suit the rod, line and fishery rather than simply match the number printed on the rod blank.
For most trout fishing, good balance, sensible weight and reliable construction are more important than an exceptionally powerful drag. A serious saltwater reel has a different job. It needs adequate backing capacity, a dependable drag, corrosion-resistant construction and the ability to deal with fast, powerful fish.
Our reel range includes freshwater and saltwater models from brands such as Orvis, Sage, Lamson, Ross Reels, Nautilus, Abel, Hardy, Hatch, Vision and Mako.
That gives customers very different options depending on what they are building. A first trout outfit has different reel requirements from an 8-weight estuary setup or a 10- to 12-weight outfit for tropical saltwater fishing.
Fly Lines
The fly line has a major influence on how a fly rod casts and fishes. Two lines carrying the same nominal weight can feel very different on the same rod because of their head length, taper, weight distribution, coating and intended application.
Our range includes floating, intermediate, sinking and sink-tip lines, plus lines built around specific techniques and species.
A general-purpose floating line covers a lot of Australian trout fishing, but not every floating line is interchangeable. Delicate dry-fly presentation, turning over an indicator and weighted nymphs, carrying streamers and casting larger flies into wind place very different demands on a taper.
Once you move into lake fishing, Murray cod or saltwater, density and taper become even more important. Intermediate and sinking lines help control fishing depth, while aggressive front-loaded tapers can turn over large flies that a presentation-oriented trout line was never designed to cast.
We stock major fly line brands including Scientific Anglers, Airflo, RIO Products and Cortland. Within the Scientific Anglers range, families such as Amplitude, Mastery, Sonar and Frequency cover everything from general freshwater fishing to specialised sinking and saltwater applications.
Flyfishing Flies
Our fly range covers far more than standard trout patterns.
For trout, we stock dry flies, nymphs, streamers, buggers, soft hackles, wet flies and other patterns for rivers and lakes. The wider range includes flies for Murray cod, bass, perch, carp and saltwater species, with baitfish, shrimp, crab, popper and other specialist patterns.
We source proven commercial patterns, including flies from Fulling Mill, alongside flies from Australian tyers. We also build staff-selected fly collections around particular species and destinations.
Fly choice still comes down to what the fish are doing. Size, profile, weight, colour, movement, retrieve, depth and presentation can matter more than the name attached to a pattern.
Waders and Wading Boots
Good waders need to fit properly, remain comfortable over a full day and stand up to the amount of walking and fishing the angler actually does.
We stock waders from specialist brands including Simms, Orvis and Skwala, with options ranging from practical entry-level models through to premium waders for anglers and guides who spend a lot of time on the water.
Simms is a major part of the range. The Tributary is a practical entry point, while the Freestone steps up in construction and durability. Higher-end models such as the G3 Guide and G4Z are aimed at anglers who want more technical materials, fit and features.
Wading boots are just as important. Fit, ankle support, sole construction and grip need to suit the terrain and rivers being fished. A good wading setup depends on the boots and waders working together.
Leaders, Tippet and Backing
The connection between the fly line and fly is easy to overlook, but leader design affects turnover, presentation, sink rate and how effectively an angler can fish a particular rig.
Our range includes tapered leaders, nylon and fluorocarbon tippet, Euro nymphing leaders, indicator material, polyleaders, sink tips, braided leaders and backing.
A fine trout leader designed to present a small dry fly is very different from the short, heavy leader needed to turn over a Murray cod fly. Saltwater leaders introduce another set of requirements around turnover, abrasion resistance and breaking strain.
Choosing the right leader is part of matching the complete setup rather than an afterthought.
Fly Tying
Our fly tying range supports everyone from someone tying their first Woolly Bugger to experienced tyers building highly specific trout and saltwater patterns.
We stock hooks, beads and eyes, thread, wire, tinsel, dubbing, fur, feathers, synthetic hair, chenille, yarn, foam, wing and tail materials, along with fly tying vises, tools, glues and complete kits.
Brands include Ahrex, Tiemco, Gamakatsu, Semperfli, Hareline, Whiting Farms, Stonfo and Renzetti.
The depth of the range matters because fly tying is highly specific. Hook shape, wire weight, bead size, material movement, buoyancy and colour all influence the finished fly and how it fishes.
Flyfishing Outfits
For anglers who do not want to build a setup component by component, we stock complete flyfishing outfits that combine rods, reels and fly lines intended to work properly together.
The range includes entry-level outfits, intermediate setups, premium outfits and specialist Euro nymphing options.
We also build higher-end combinations ourselves. The Orvis Elite Freshwater Flyfishing Outfit is one example of a complete trout setup designed around matched components and professional rigging.
This can be especially useful for newer flyfishers because a good rod paired with the wrong line can make an otherwise capable setup unnecessarily difficult to cast.
Flyfishing Brands We Stock
The Flyfisher stocks specialist flyfishing brands from Australia and around the world. Major names include:
- Sage – fly rods and reels, including the R8 rod family
- Orvis – rods, reels, outfits, waders, boots, packs, clothing and accessories
- Simms – waders, wading boots, clothing, packs and technical fishing gear
- Scientific Anglers – freshwater and saltwater fly lines, leaders and tippet
- Scott – premium fly rods for freshwater and saltwater applications
- RIO Products – fly lines, leaders, tippet and terminal tackle
- Lamson – freshwater and saltwater fly reels
- Vision – rods, reels, wading equipment and flyfishing accessories
- Hardy – fly rods and reels
- Guideline – rods, reels and specialist flyfishing equipment
These brands represent only part of the range.
Advice from Flyfishers Who Use the Gear
Good flyfishing advice starts with understanding what the angler is actually trying to do.
Someone fishing dry flies on a small Victorian stream does not need the same rod, line or leader as someone throwing articulated streamers on a lake. An angler preparing for bonefish needs a very different reel, line, leader and footwear setup from someone nymphing the Goulburn.
Our team fishes across these different disciplines. That allows us to talk about more than specifications. We can help customers understand how a rod loads, how a particular line changes its behaviour, how much reel they genuinely need, which flies belong in the box and where spending more money will or will not make a meaningful difference.
If a more expensive product is not the right option for the way someone fishes, we will say so.
Meet The Flyfisher Team
The people providing advice at The Flyfisher are active flyfishers with different areas of experience.
Andrew Fuller
Andrew Fuller owns The Flyfisher and has extensive experience fishing for trout throughout Victoria, Tasmania and southern New South Wales. He also regularly travels to international flyfishing destinations.
Andrew spends a lot of time researching and fishing new equipment and techniques, ties flies and regularly contributes to FlyStream Magazine. He is also a member of the Victorian Flyfisher’s Association and advocates for trout conservation and habitat management in Australia.
Mick Hurren
Mick Hurren runs The Flyfisher Yea Local and is also a flyfishing guide and professional photographer and videographer.
He has spent a lifetime fishing Victoria’s North East for trout, Murray cod, carp and other species. His strength is practical local fishing knowledge, including water reading, habitat, casting and helping anglers make better decisions once they are on the river.
Peter Panopoulos
Peter Panopoulos spends much of his fishing time on the small streams of North East Victoria and has also developed a serious interest in lake fishing.
Peter works on the shop floor and is also heavily involved in The Flyfisher podcast.
Nahuel Homene
Originally from Argentina, Nahuel Homene brings strong saltwater and fly tying experience to the South Melbourne team.
He has chased bonefish from the Mexican Caribbean to Cocos (Keeling) Islands and has extensive experience preparing for DIY destination fishing. He is particularly useful to talk to about saltwater flies, leaders, tides, presentation and preparing tackle for species such as bonefish and GTs.
Dan Moore
Dan Moore has fished extensively throughout North East Victoria and the Snowy Mountains, as well as New Zealand’s South Island.
Closer to Melbourne, he fishes Port Phillip Bay and Gippsland for Australian salmon and spends winter fishing western Victorian lakes from the Ballarat district through to the Grampians.
Damien Reynolds
Damien Reynolds fishes both freshwater and saltwater and has experience on the tropical flats around Magnetic Island and Hinchinbrook.
He has a strong interest in fly patterns, tackle and flyfishing destinations and regularly appears on The Flyfisher podcast and social channels.
The Flyfisher Advisory
Our wider advisory group gives the shop access to even more specialist experience.
Kiel Jones is an experienced Victorian flyfisher, guide and fly tyer with particular knowledge of bream on fly.
Scott Xanthoulakis is an experienced guide with extensive knowledge of Victorian trout water as well as New Zealand and international saltwater flyfishing.
Jim Allen founded The Flyfisher in 1967. His experience spans flyfishing, international travel, fisheries management and conservation, and he remains a source of knowledge and mentorship for the team.
We also work closely with Jimmy Barwick, Rodney Collings, Harrison Perrin and Philip Weigall.
Flyfishing Guiding and Casting Tuition
Buying the right equipment is only part of becoming a better flyfisher.
The Flyfisher offers access to flyfishing guiding and tuition, including personalised casting lessons and on-water guiding.
Our guide network includes Finn McDowell, Scott Xanthoulakis and Jimmy Barwick.
A guide can help an angler understand a new fishery, improve water reading and presentation and learn techniques that are difficult to pick up from gear alone. Casting tuition is useful for beginners building sound fundamentals, but it can also help experienced anglers improve accuracy, distance, line speed, hauling or casting in difficult conditions.
For guiding and tuition enquiries, call (03) 9621 1246 or email shop@theflyfisher.com.au.
Why Shop with The Flyfisher?
Specialist Flyfishing Retailer Since 1967
The Flyfisher has traded since 1967. Flyfishing is not one department within a larger tackle business. It is the focus of the business.
A Deep Range of Flyfishing Gear
Our range extends from complete beginner outfits through to specialised equipment for trout, Euro nymphing, spey, Murray cod and saltwater flyfishing.
That depth gives customers the ability to compare products designed for the same job rather than simply choosing whatever happens to be available.
Advice Before and After You Buy
Our team helps customers match rods, reels, lines, leaders, flies and other equipment to how and where they fish.
Customers can shop online, call us or visit our South Melbourne and Yea stores to discuss equipment with someone who actually flyfishes.
Quality Rigging Guarantee
We rig flyfishing gear to the same standard we expect from our own equipment. A complete setup can include the reel, backing, fly line and leader properly assembled so it arrives ready for the water.
365-Day Returns
The Flyfisher offers 365-day returns on products we sell, subject to current returns conditions.
Fish More, Pay Less
Our price policy is designed to help Australian flyfishers buy locally. We aim to beat local fly shop pricing and compete closely with international pricing, subject to current price-match terms.
Platinum Rod Service
Eligible fly rods priced at $1,500 or more receive our Platinum Rod Service. The service provides additional support during the first 12 months, including access to a quality loan rod while an eligible rod is being repaired, subject to current service terms.
Two Victorian Fly Shops
Our flagship store is at 211 Moray Street, South Melbourne, approximately two kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD.
The Flyfisher Yea Local is at 36 High Street, Yea, providing specialist flyfishing equipment and local knowledge close to Victoria’s North East.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Flyfisher
What is The Flyfisher?
The Flyfisher is a specialist Australian flyfishing retailer established in 1967. We sell fly rods, reels, lines, flies, wading gear, fly tying materials, outfits and accessories online throughout Australia and from our stores in South Melbourne and Yea, Victoria.
Where can I buy flyfishing gear in Australia?
The Flyfisher sells specialist flyfishing gear online throughout Australia. Customers can also visit our physical fly shops in South Melbourne and Yea to compare equipment and get advice before buying.
What flyfishing gear does The Flyfisher sell?
We sell fly rods, fly reels, fly lines, flies, waders, wading boots, flyfishing outfits, leaders, tippet, backing, fly tying equipment, packs, clothing and accessories.
What are the best flyfishing brands available in Australia?
There is no single best brand for every angler or piece of equipment. The Flyfisher stocks major specialist brands including Sage, Orvis, Simms, Scientific Anglers, Scott, RIO Products, Lamson, Vision, Hardy and Guideline. We recommend products according to the angler, application and budget rather than assuming one brand is best at everything.
Can The Flyfisher help me choose a fly rod?
Yes. We help customers choose fly rods based on target species, water, technique, fly size, preferred action, casting style and budget. A 5-weight trout rod, Euro nymphing rod, Murray cod rod and saltwater rod are built for very different jobs, so we start with how the rod will actually be used.
Can The Flyfisher help me match a fly line to my rod?
Yes. Line choice can substantially change how a rod casts. We consider rod weight and action alongside the line’s taper, head length, density and intended application.
Does The Flyfisher sell trout flies?
Yes. Our fly range includes dry flies, nymphs, streamers, buggers, wet flies and other trout patterns, along with flies for saltwater, Murray cod, bass, perch, carp and other species.
Does The Flyfisher sell saltwater flyfishing gear?
Yes. We stock saltwater rods, reels, fly lines, leaders, flies and accessories for Australian and international saltwater flyfishing. The range extends from lighter saltwater applications through to equipment for powerful tropical species.
Does The Flyfisher sell fly tying materials?
Yes. Our fly tying range includes hooks, beads, thread, wire, tinsel, dubbing, fur, feathers, synthetics, foam, vises, tools, glues and other materials for tying freshwater and saltwater flies.
Does The Flyfisher sell beginner flyfishing outfits?
Yes. We stock entry-level, intermediate and premium flyfishing outfits. We can also help new flyfishers choose individual components and rig the complete setup correctly.
Does The Flyfisher offer fly casting lessons?
Yes. The Flyfisher offers casting tuition for new and experienced flyfishers. Lessons can cover fundamentals or work on specific areas of casting technique.
Can The Flyfisher organise a flyfishing guide?
Yes. We work with professional guides including Finn McDowell, Scott Xanthoulakis and Jimmy Barwick.
Where are The Flyfisher stores?
The Flyfisher’s flagship store is at 211 Moray Street, South Melbourne, Victoria 3205. The Flyfisher Yea Local is at 36 High Street, Yea, Victoria 3717.
How long has The Flyfisher been operating?
The Flyfisher was established by Jim Allen in 1967 and has served Australian flyfishers for more than five decades.
Contact The Flyfisher
For flyfishing equipment, product advice, rigging, guiding or tuition, contact our team.
The Flyfisher South Melbourne
211 Moray Street
South Melbourne VIC 3205
The Flyfisher Yea Local
36 High Street
Yea VIC 3717
Phone: (03) 9621 1246
Email: shop@theflyfisher.com.au
Website: theflyfisher.com.au