Discover what to expect from the rest of the 2025 Tasmania dry fly fishing season. Learn tips, techniques, and top locations like Penstock Lagoon to make the most of your fly fishing adventure in Tasmania.
With 2025 now in full swing, the Tasmania dry fly fishing season has delivered some exceptional conditions for anglers, including both local and visitors to the state.
With summer finally here, consistent insect hatches have drawn trout to the surface across the state’s rivers and lakes, making this one of the best times to experience fly fishing in Tasmania.
As water temperatures rose in late spring, the shift from wet to dry fly techniques brought exciting opportunities for anglers to target rising fish. The abundance of mayflies, beetles, and other terrestrials has created ideal conditions for dry fly fishing, allowing anglers to enjoy productive days on Tasmania’s world-class waters.
Matt, owner of Trout Tales Tasmania, says the current season has been highly rewarding for anglers.
“Dry fly fishing has been happening for around two to three months now, and we’ve seen excellent hatches of mayflies, beetles, and damsel flies. If the weather stays warm, we can usually expect dry fly activity to continue strongly into March and even through April too."
"As many anglers on our guided fly fishing tours are experiencing at the moment, it really is the perfect time to get amongst everything dry fly fishing in Tasmania has to offer.”
From popular locations in 2025 like Penstock Lagoon to flowing rivers such as the Meander and Tyenna, anglers have a wide variety of options to make the most of the remaining months of the season, as we deep dive into what's happened so far and what to expect.
Key Takeaways
- Summer marks the transition from wet to dry fly fishing, with consistent insect hatches driving trout to feed on the surface.
- Penstock Lagoon, Meander River, and Tyenna River have been standout locations this season, producing a mix of high fish numbers and larger catches.
- Fly patterns such as mayflies, terrestrials, and the versatile possum emerger have been reliable options for dry fly fishing.
- Patience, accurate presentation, and flexible techniques are essential for success as fish become more cautious during the later months of the season.
- With the season running until April, now is the perfect time to plan a fly fishing in Tasmania trip and experience the thrill of targeting rising trout.
Summer Dry Fly Fishing in Tasmania
The transition to Tasmania dry fly fishing began in early November, as rising water temperatures triggered consistent insect hatches. Mayflies, beetles, and damsel flies quickly became abundant, drawing trout to the surface and signalling the start of the dry fly season.
“Once the weather warmed up, the wet flies went away and the dry flies came out,” Matt explains. “The trout adapted quickly and started feeding on the surface and from that point on, it’s been about finding rising fish and making accurate presentations to entice them.”
By December, the variety of insects on the water made for exceptional fishing, with trout feeding confidently on a range of patterns. This diversity has continued into January, creating a visually rewarding style of fishing where patience and observation play a critical role.
“Now that we’re deep into summer, trout have seen a lot of flies and anglers,” Matt adds. “Presentation is more important than ever, but with the right approach, the dry fly fishing can be absolutely incredible.”
With a few months of the season remaining, anglers have plenty of time to experience the unique challenges and rewards of dry fly fishing - and our ultimate guide to Tasmania's fly fishing season can help if you're looking for a comprehensive read on what else to expect.
What’s Fished Well This Season?
The current season has seen strong performances from both lakes and rivers, with locations like Penstock Lagoon and the Meander and Tyenna Rivers providing excellent fishing conditions.
Penstock Lagoon has been a highlight for many anglers, with higher water levels pushing fish closer to the edges. This has made shore-based fishing and working the shallows near the banks particularly effective.
“Penstock Lagoon has been one of the best spots this year, without a doubt” Matt says. “On most days, fishing near the banks has been more productive than drifting out in the deeper water. It’s been a great season for anglers focusing on the shallows.”
Rivers such as the Meander and Tyenna have also delivered consistent results.
The Meander’s steady flows have made it a reliable option in the north, while the Tyenna has benefited from recent rainfall, keeping water levels ideal for summer fishing.
“The Meander River has been our best-performing river up north, offering a mix of fast runs and slow pools,” Matt explains. “The Tyenna, meanwhile, has had some brilliant days, particularly with the rain helping to maintain good flows. Both rivers should fish well for the rest of the season.”
Other locations, including Woods Lake, Bronte Lagoon, and Pine Tier Lagoon, have produced strong catches, with anglers reporting a mix of high numbers and quality fish. These diverse fisheries highlight the range of options available for anglers exploring fly fishing in Tasmania.
Watch the video:
If you want to experience fly fishing at Penstock Lagoon, check out our Tales From The Fly episode in the player below.
Tips and Insights for Dry Fly Fishing in Tasmania
To make the most of Tasmania dry fly fishing, it’s important to focus on the right techniques and approaches. Here’s what anglers can expect during the summer season:
- Patience is key as insect hatches often trigger sudden feeding activity.
- Presentation and accuracy are essential to entice wary trout.
- Versatile fly patterns like the possum emerger are highly effective.
- Trout activity peaks during early mornings, late afternoons, and overcast days.
- Adapting to changing conditions can turn a slow day into a successful one.
Be patient throughout the day
Patience plays a critical role in dry fly fishing success, especially during summer. Insect hatches can happen suddenly, and trout respond quickly to these changes.
“Don’t leave the water too quickly if things seem quiet,” Matt advises. “Hatches can come on at any time, and when they do, the fish start feeding aggressively. A quiet morning can easily turn into a productive afternoon if you’re willing to wait.”
Work on your presentation
As trout become more cautious during the later months of the season, accurate casting and natural fly presentation are essential.
“Presentation is everything,” Matt says. “The fish have seen plenty of flies by now, so any unnatural movement or poor placement will spook them. A soft landing and natural drift can make all the difference.”
Use versatile fly patterns
While fly selection is less critical due to the abundance of insects, some patterns consistently perform well. Mayfly imitations, terrestrials like beetles, and the possum emerger are reliable choices.
“The possum emerger is one of my personal favourites because it imitates so many insects,” Matt explains. “It’s versatile and rarely refused when presented well.”
Shop Now: Buy the possum emerger from the Trout Tales online shop!
Fish the best times and conditions
Trout activity often peaks during early mornings, late afternoons, and cloudy days, making these the best times to fish.
"Bright, sunny days can make fish more cautious,” Matt notes. “Focusing on the edges of these periods, or fishing under overcast skies, often yields the best results.”
Adapt to changing conditions
Flexibility is essential for success, especially when fish aren’t feeding on the surface.
“If the conditions don’t suit dry flies, switching to a nymph or targeting different areas can turn things around,” Matt says. “Adapting to what the water and weather are telling you is key.”
With the right approach, Tasmania dry fly fishing can be highly rewarding, offering a mix of challenges and memorable catches.
Frequent questions on Tasmania's dry fly fishing season
When does Tasmania’s dry fly season run?
The dry fly season in Tasmania typically begins in early November and continues until April. The peak months are December and January, when insect hatches are most consistent.
What flies should I use?
Mayflies, terrestrials such as beetles and damsel flies, and the possum emerger are highly effective for targeting trout during summer.
Where are the best places to fish?
Locations such as Penstock Lagoon, Meander River, and Tyenna River have fished exceptionally well this season, offering a mix of numbers and quality fish.
What’s the best time of day for dry fly fishing?
The best times are early morning, late afternoon, and overcast days, as trout are more active during low-light conditions.
Can beginners enjoy dry fly fishing in Tasmania?
Yes, beginners can enjoy dry fly fishing with the help of experienced guides like Trout Tales Tasmania. Guides provide the expertise and equipment needed to make the most of Tasmania’s fisheries.
In conclusion...
The 2025 Tasmania dry fly fishing season continues to deliver exceptional conditions for anglers.
With rising fish feeding actively on the surface, the remaining months provide ample opportunity to experience some of the world’s best dry fly fishing.
By visiting iconic locations like Penstock Lagoon and adapting techniques to match the conditions, anglers can enjoy diverse and rewarding fishing experiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s no better time to experience fly fishing in Tasmania and make the most of its renowned waters - so if you want to get in on the action, view our guided fly fishing packages of Tasmania or book your trip today.
Tight lines!
Hi, I'm Matt Stone - for over fifteen years I’ve developed my passion for fly fishing, wild trout and for the amazing places experienced in Tasmania along the way.
