Fly fishing in Australia offers an incredible variety of opportunities across both freshwater and saltwater environments. From pristine alpine streams to tropical flats and remote coastal bays, anglers can experience world-class fly fishing for a wide range of native and sport fish species.

Freshwater Fly Fishing in Australia

Australia’s freshwater fly fishing is centred around cool-climate rivers, lakes, and streams, especially in regions like Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, and the Snowy Mountains. These areas are renowned for their populations of brown trout, rainbow trout, and Australian bass.

Fly anglers can target trout using dry flies, nymphs, and streamers, with clear, cool waters offering sight-fishing opportunities and challenging conditions. Highland lakes and alpine rivers offer a mix of stillwater and flowing water environments, providing year-round fly fishing experiences.

Key freshwater fly fishing spots include:

• The Thredbo and Eucumbene Rivers (NSW)

• The Goulburn River and Lake Eildon (VIC)

• Tasmania’s Central Highlands

• Northern NSW rivers for Australian bass

Saltwater Fly Fishing in Australia

Australia is also a premier destination for saltwater fly fishing. The tropical north, in particular, is home to some of the most exciting saltwater fly fishing on the planet, with the chance to catch barramundi, queenfish, giant trevally (GTs), permit, and threadfin salmon.

Coastal flats, estuaries, and bluewater reefs provide fly anglers with opportunities to sight-cast to aggressive predators in shallow or open water. Saltwater fly fishing requires heavier rods, saltwater-specific lines, and durable flies like baitfish patterns, crab imitations, and poppers.

Top saltwater fly fishing locations include:

• Cape York and Weipa (QLD)

• Exmouth and the Kimberley (WA)

• Hinchinbrook Channel (QLD)

• Sydney Harbour and estuaries for Australian salmon and kingfish

Fly Fishing Gear & Tips for Australia

Whether fishing freshwater or saltwater, choosing the right fly rod, line, and flies for local conditions is essential. Many anglers use a 5-6wt rod for trout and a 7-10wt rod for saltwater species. Matching your gear to the species and conditions will improve your success and overall experience.

Explore Australia’s Diverse Fly Fishing Opportunities

From chasing trout in a mountain stream to battling a GT on the flats, fly fishing in Australia offers something for every angler. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned fly fisher, Australia’s unique landscapes and fish species provide unforgettable fly fishing adventures year-round.