Overview
Tasmania's central highlands and the alpine streams of Victoria and NSW hold the country's most celebrated trout fishing.
Trout are sight-driven feeders and highly sensitive to water temperature, clarity and insect activity — matching the hatch genuinely works.
Lake fishing, stream fishing and tailwater fishing each demand a different approach, which is part of the appeal.
Where to find them
- ▸Highland lakes and tarns during polaroiding conditions.
- ▸Alpine and tailwater streams with steady flow.
- ▸Stocked impoundments in the cooler months.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 5–6 weight fly rod, or 6'–7' 1–3 kg spin outfit.
- ▸Line: 4–8 lb braid or mono with light fluorocarbon leader.
- ▸Lures and flies: 40–60 mm minnows, small spoons, nymphs, dry flies and wet flies.
Tips from the water
- ▸Approach the bank low and slow; trout see you long before you see them.
- ▸Fish upstream in flowing water so your presentation drifts naturally.
Regulations
Trout waters have defined open and closed seasons, and a fishing licence is required in most states. Check your state's inland fisheries rules.