Tasmania
is Australia's trout fishing haven - as witnessed by the estimated 25,000
anglers who try their luck in the Central Highlands each year. They
take home about half a million trout from an area blessed with at least
40 major lake fisheries, and hundreds of creeks, tarns and rivers.
Wild brown trout spawn naturally throughout Tasmania and just about every
river and creek crossed by a major road is sure to offer a fish or two
to the patient angler. And, of course, there's always the big fish
lurking in Lake Pedder and other hydro dams. However, it is the Central
Highlands' outstanding variety of productive waters that dominate the fishing,
with about 90% of the anglers heading there each year. Top
In the
interest of the sport, certain lakes and streams are designated for artificial
lures, or exclusively for fly fishing. In the early part of the season
the fish will be 'tailing' on snails and amphipods, and rising to early
caddis Midges, caddis and caenid mayfly hatches make for excellent
fishing in the high season, from October to March. Trout stalking,
that idealized pursuit of the fly fisherman, is a solitary environment
experience requiring the angler to be sensitive o the water, the weather,
aquatic and insect life and the nervous habits of the fish. Local authors,
Rob Sloane and Greg French in their Trout Guide - 'A Guide to Trout
Fishing in Tasmania's Central Highlands' emphasizes the challenge
and persistence that give the sport its splendid rewards: "Local
knowledge is regarded as paramount to catching trout in this region.
Successful trout fishing in particular, has a great deal to do with angler
confidence and this is where local knowledge of lakes, shores, methods
and lures becomes so important. There is really no substitute for
time spent on the water as a basis for consistent catches." They
also make a plea for visiting anglers to carefully clean and disinfect
fishing apparel and tackle before coming to Tasmania, and to only use flies,
lures and hooks which have not previously been in other waters. This
precaution will help to maintain the relative disease-free status of the
wild Tasmanian trout stocks. Top
Those
seeking an introduction to the mystique of fly fishing have both the waters
and the tutors to assist. Chose from a range of accommodation to
go with the experience - economy style for the rivers around Cressy; a
Home Host who is an experienced guide at Brady's Lake, to a fully inclusive
lodge and guide service on private waters at London Lakes. Four-wheel
drive safaris visit Little Pine Lagoon, the Western Lakes, Lake Pedder
and Bronte Lagoon featuring camping or hotel accommodation. Those
who decide to explore the remote parts of the Western Lakes should consider
the company of an experienced companion or professional fishing guide.
Newcomers with limited time will maximize their catch if they seek the
services of a trout fishing guide (look for members of the Professional
Trout Fishing Guide Association). If your Tasmanian trout tour must
be a winner one trout fishing is still possible. Near Lake Leake,
between Swansea and Cambell Town, are two private lakes especially stocked
with large trout and licensed to fish all year round! Top
Licences are essential, and are available at tackle shops, some general
stores, and at police station. The season runs from early August
to late April and an Angling Code provided with the licence fully details
the restrictions applicable to various lakes and rivers. Top
