Fly Fishing Tasmania: Ultimate Guide For The 2024/25 Season

If you're looking for information on fly fishing in Tasmania, including the 2024/25 season, then look no further than the Trout Tales ultimate guide.

Key takeaways on fly fishing in Tasmania:

• ‍The Tasmanian trout fishing season runs from the first weekend in August until the last weekend in April‍
• The peak of the dry fly fishing season in Tasmania is from December to February.
• Weather is the biggest factor that impacts fly fishing in Tasmania
• Location, water type, fishing method and fly selection are important factors to focus on mastering.
• Trout Tales provides fishing charters Tasmania and personalised trout fishing packages.

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When it comes to fly fishing in Tasmania, there is no question that weather is the biggest impacting factor.

The weather conditions, which change throughout the season, dictate many of the aspects required for a successful fishing trip. As the weather changes, so does trout behaviour, feeding habits and available food sources. These factors will ultimately impact your fly fishing decisions day-to-day including:

• location -where is going to be the best place to fish to suit the conditions;
• water type - is a river or lake the best option;
• trout fly fishing method - should you fish wet flies or dry flies, and;
• fly selection - how will you decide which fly to tie on.

Having an understanding of when different fly fishing events occur in Tasmania will give you the best possible chance of planning the trout fly fishing trip of a lifetime and experiencing some of the best fishing anywhere in the world.

At Trout Tales, we can also assist you with all aspects of planning a fly fishing trip to Tasmania including accommodation, catering, transport and itineraries.

When does the trout fishing in Tasmania season open in 2024/2025?

Tasmania's trout fishing season runs from the first weekend in August 2024 until the last weekend in April 2025.

The opening weekend of the season is always greatly anticipated by all trout fly fishing enthusiasts and as a handy guide, we have broken the year down into a few sections and outlined what you can expect to find during each of these periods.

Understanding the Fly Fishing Season in Tasmania

Trout fishing in Tasmania typically kicks off in early August and extends through to late April. However, for the 2024/25 season, anglers can get excited about the introduction of a special winter trout season that will allow fishing in certain lakes, providing the adventurous angler a chance to enjoy year-round fishing opportunities.

Fly Fishing in Tasmania: August to September

Opening of the trout season and ‘early season’ months.

Weather

Cold temperatures with snow and ice common around the Highlands. Lowland temperatures are much milder and more settled.

Fishing Overview
No insect hatches are seen highland areas, making opportunities for dry fly fishing almost impossible. Lowland areas often start to see mayfly hatches late in September. Excellent numbers of fish are caught on streamer patterns and woolly buggers with sinking lines cast from a drifting boat (often referred to as loch style fishing) or shore-based casting small wet flies around flooded lake margins searching for 'tailing' trout feeding on baitfish in the shallows.

Given the common adverse weather patterns in the highlands at this time of year, trips to lowland lakes are common, and these produce some great fishing in milder temperatures. Access to private fisheries also ensures there is always somewhere to get out on the water and find some great opportunities. 

Angler Notes

Anglers of all experience can have fantastic results at this time of the year, however the ability to cast a good length of line, generally casting weighted lines and flies, will assist greatly in success rates.

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Recent blog: Mid-season 2024 fly fishing in Tasmania update

Fly Fishing in Tasmania: October to November 

Mid-Season and the beginning of the hatches.

Weather:

Temperatures begin to increase and rain, and snow become less likely in the highlands opening up a larger range of fly fishing opportunities.

Fishing Overview:

Generally the biggest ‘fish catching’ months due to the sudden abundance of food sources for the trout. In the highlands, depending on the day, fish can be targeted with wet, dry or nymph flies. Mayfly are more prevalent giving opportunities for dry fly and nymph fishing and early season food sources are still abundant, making the wet fly fishing outstanding.  

With the mayfly hatches comes sight fishing opportunities. Spotting cruising trout from the boat or wading the shallows produces some of the best action for the season.

The river fly fishing begins to improve across these months as the lowland small streams and rivers also begin to fish well with dropping river levels. A combination of dry and nymph fishing produces many successful days on the river at this stage of the season. 

Angler Notes:

Most anglers will have the ability to catch a fish in these months, however casting accurately becomes more important when dry fly and nymph fishing and this will increase catch rates on most days.  

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Fly Fishing in Tasmania: December to February 

The peak of dry fly and sight fishing on the lakes and rivers across the state.

Weather:

Generally bright and warm conditions with prolonged settled weather patterns. 

Fishing Overview:

Warm weather brings sight fishing opportunities in the highlands on most days, with bright conditions ideal for polaroiding and overcast conditions producing huge mayfly hatches.

This stage of the season is all about dry fly fishing. Predominately fishing from a drifting boat or wading shallow lake margins scanning for cruising trout, generally casting to rising trout feeding on a range of hatching insects.

On the highland lakes, mayfly hatches, midge, beetles and damselflies see large numbers of trout feeding on the surface, producing exciting sight fishing on the majority of days. On the rivers, water flows are ideal and grasshoppers and other large terrestrial insects mean the trout are in search of large dry flies   

Angler Notes:

Trout can become difficult to catch during this time as bright weather prevails, making accurate and subtle casting a must.

Don't miss out: Summer fly fishing in Tasmania can be a busy period, with tour spaces filling up quickly. Book your tour now with Trout Tales.

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Fly Fishing in Tasmania: March to April

The 'late season' months.

Weather:

Generally still warm days, with occasional cooler days starting to appear. Weather patterns can vary from year to year during this time.

Fishing Overview:

As temperatures begin to cool and mayfly hatches on the lakes slow, poloroiding for fish becomes more of a focus, allowing a more targeted approach. Still some great dry fly and sight fishing to be experienced on the right days. A combination of dry fly and nymph fishing is usually seen during this period and often fish are less selective in their feeding patterns, making fly selection less important.

If high temperatures continue during March, water temperature can become too high for the trout in the highland lakes, making river fishing more appealing on fine weather days in rivers where flows are not too low. Good numbers of fish rising to grasshoppers and smaller mayfly can be found.

All brown trout waters close at the end of April for the annual spawning ritual of the trout. As this draws closer, fish become aggressive, and their feeding patterns can be sporadic. However this behaviour can play to the anglers favour, with well-placed flies usually taken with gusto.  

Angler Notes:

When fishing from a drifting boat at this time of the year, casting accuracy is not as crucial but ability to cast a good length of line will be advantageous. Good casting accuracy is important when presenting to rising trout on the small streams and rivers.

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Fly Fishing in Tasmania: May to July

The ‘off season’ and trout spawning period.

Weather:

Winter kicks in over this time and temperatures in the highlands plummet with frost and snow again common. Lowland temperatures remain slightly better.

Fishing Overview:

Most waters are closed for the trout spawning season which greatly reduces fly fishing options. Access to some fantastic private fisheries gives us the opportunity to still have some fantastic days out on the water and this is great time to brush up on your casting and learn different techniques.

Generally wading and fishing wet flies to target any hungry fish searching around the weed beds, we still see some great fish caught throughout this time of the year

Angler Notes:

Ability to cast a reasonable distance will assist, however this is a good time for beginners and those looking to brush up on their technique to prepare for the new season opening in August.

Key dates for the 2024-25 Tasmanian trout fishing season:

3/8/2024 - Opening of most waters
28/9/2024 - Opening of designated rainbow trout waters
30/11/2024 - Opening of Canal Bay, yingina / Great Lake
30/3/2025 - Closure of Canal Bay, yingina / Great Lake
27/4/2025 - Closure of most waters

Please note these dates are subject to change, and you should check the IFS website for up to date information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fly Fishing In Tasmania:

How does fly fish licensing work in Tasmania?

An up to date inland angling licence is required when fly fishing in any inland water Tasmania with a rod, reel and line. There are also other rules and regulations which may apply, and rules may also vary from location to location.

Trout Tales are now certified providers of trout fishing licenses in Tasmania, meaning we can provide visitors with the required licenses to fly fish. Get in touch with us about organising your license, or visit the IFS license area for more information.

What are the best trout fishing spots in Tasmania?

Tasmania is renowned for its pristine, remote waterways and abundant trout populations, offering some of the most secluded and untouched fishing spots in the world.

The island’s varied landscapes provide a rich array of habitats that are ideal for trout to thrive. 

From the lakes in the Central Highlands to the meandering rivers and streams in the North and South, most edged by dense and stunning forests, each location promises a unique fishing experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Can you trout fish all year round for trout in Tasmania?

While the primary trout fishing angling season runs from the first weekend in August until the last weekend in April, which you need a fishing licence for, there are some locations in Tasmania where you can now fish all year round for trout as well as without the need for a licence.

At Trout Tales, we offer guided tours and access to these locations during the off-season, so feel free to get in touch if you're looking to get involved.

What are the best spots to fly fish in Tasmania?

Here are our top places to fly fish in Tasmania, each with its own distinct appeal and abundant opportunities to land that perfect catch:

• Little Pine Lagoon
• Great Lake / yingina
• Penstock Lagoon
• The Tyenna River
• The Meander River

Little Pine Lagoon (Central Highlands): A famous spot for wild brown trout, Little Pine Lagoon is known for its prolific mayfly hatches and is ideal for dry fly fishing, particularly later in the season. The area also supports loch-style fishing with both wet and dry flies.

Great Lake / yingina (Central Highlands): This vast lake offers a range of fishing conditions, including early-season wet fly fishing and midge hatches. Great Lake is also known for the unique “shark fishing” where anglers target trout feeding in wind lanes. Check out our video on fly fishing at Great Lake to learn more.

Penstock Lagoon (Central Highlands): One of Tasmania’s fly fishing-only lakes, Penstock Lagoon offers great opportunities for both wet and dry fly fishing, with accessible waters and excellent conditions for catching brown and rainbow trout.

The Tyenna River (Hobart): Located near Hobart, the Tyenna River is great for nymphing and dry fly fishing, especially in late summer and autumn. It’s surrounded by beautiful scenery and is known for its healthy trout population.

Meander River (Northern Tasmania): This scenic river offers fantastic dry fly fishing opportunities. The river’s fast-flowing nature can make casting challenging, but it rewards anglers with a good mix of brown and rainbow trout.

Additionally, places like Woods Lake, Pine Tier and Arthurs Lake in the Central Highlands provides a beautiful backdrop for fishing, offering opportunities for wet and dry fly fishing in more sheltered conditions.

These locations cover a variety of fishing experiences, catering to anglers of all skill levels. Each spot has its own unique appeal, making Tasmania a fantastic fly fishing destination

Planning fly fishing trip in Tasmania

Planning the perfect trout fishing trip to Tasmania involves more than just packing the right gear - it also requires careful consideration of the best times to visit based on weather patterns and fish activity levels to maximise your chances of a successful outing.

Additionally, familiarising yourself with local regulations and obtaining the necessary fishing licences is essential to ensure that your trip is not only enjoyable but also compliant with Tasmanian fishing laws. Consider the following to enhance your experience:

Accommodation: From luxury lodges to cosy cabins, options abound that cater specifically to anglers and their needs.

Guided Tours: Especially if you're new to the region or trout fishing, consider hiring a local Tasmanian fly fishing guide like Trout Tales. They can provide invaluable insights and take you to the best hidden spots.

What to pack and considering clothing is also really important for your trip to Tasmania.

Check out our video in the player below about layering and clothing:

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Techniques for fly fishing in Tasmania

It may not be surprising that Tasmania’s diverse environments call for a range of fly fishing techniques.

For lake fishing, loch-style methods are effective, particularly when wet fly fishing during the early season. In rivers, mastering short, controlled casts and precise fly placement is key, especially in clear, shallow waters.

Wet flies work best in colder months, while dry fly fishing thrives during warmer seasons, especially in mayfly hatches.

Overall, adaptability and switching flies often based on trout behaviour are crucial for success.

Check out our video below on the best flies and patterns for fly fishing in Tasmania.

Matt's top tips for fly fishing in Tasmania:

Master Short, Accurate Casts:

Instead of focusing on long-distance casting, Matt emphasises the importance of short, controlled casts for success - particularly in Tasmanian rivers. Trout in Tasmania’s clear waters are often wary, so presenting your fly accurately and naturally is more effective than reaching far.

Be Adaptable: Conditions can change quickly, especially in Tasmania’s diverse environments. Matt says, "we recommend changing flies regularly and adjusting techniques based on light, water levels, and fish behaviour, which can make the difference in attracting trout that have become selective or cautious."

Focus on Stealth: Trout in Tasmania are sensitive to movement, particularly in the clear rivers and streams. Approaching fishing spots quietly and blending in with the surroundings is key to not spooking the fish. Matt teaches his clients to move slowly and minimise disturbances in the water.

Gear Preparation is Key: Before heading out, Matt advises thoroughly checking your gear. Make sure your lines, leaders, and flies are all in order, as preparation can save time and make your fishing experience smoother. He stresses the importance of having a variety of flies and being ready for different conditions. Check out our dedicated video here on preparing your gear ahead of the upcoming fishing season.

Understand the Environment: Each body of water in Tasmania presents its own challenges, which highlights the need to understand these environments, whether it’s loch-style fishing on the lakes or river fishing during insect hatches. Knowing when and where to fish, and adapting to Tasmania’s unique conditions, is vital for success.

By following these tailored tips from Matt, anglers can maximise their chances of success when fly fishing in Tasmania.

Looking for more information on trout fishing Tasmania?

Check out our dedicated page on Fly Fishing in Tasmania for a collection of our best fishing locations across the state - as well as more information about the fishing season and what Trout Tales has to offer.

You can also visit our trout fishing blog for more updates, tips and tricks and information from local fishing guide in Tasmania Matt Stone.

Trout Tales own Youtube account is packed full of Tasmanian fly fishing video content, including our renowned Tales From The Fly series which deep dives into some of the best fly fishing spots around the state.

Check out the popular episode featuring Arthurs Lake in the video below:

Book a fly fishing Tasmania guided tour

If you're itching to experience the best of fly fishing in Tasmania, Trout Tales are here to help.

We offer personalised fly fishing tours across Tasmania, including everything from transport and accommodation, to cuisine and premium fishing gear; while catering for single day trips all the way through to our epic multi-day fly fishing Tasmania adventures.

If you want to learn more, check out our trout fishing in Tasmania packages or if you're ready to cast a line yourself, book your own fly fishing adventure in Tasmania with Trout Tales.

Thanks for reading.