Freshwater

Why fly fishing in Australia

Australia offers fabulously diverse fly fishing opportunities, combining tropical saltwater fisheries with world-class trout waters spread across a vast and varied landscape. Whether looking for a specialist fishing trip, a combination of fishing and travel, or a location where you can sneak in a fishing rod but not get into too much trouble, there will be something for you here.

What makes fly fishing in Australia so special

Exmouth, on the remote north-west coast, is famous for exceptional flats fishing, and anglers can target bonefish, permit, giant trevally, queenfish, and a host of other species against the backdrop of the Ningaloo Reef. On the east coast of Queensland, destinations such as Aroona, Hamilton Island, and Hervey Bay provide access to productive estuaries, mangrove systems, flats, and offshore waters, offering shots at barramundi, queenfish, trevally, and golden trevally. Tasmania is internationally recognised for its wild brown trout fisheries, where crystal-clear rivers, streams, and lakes deliver excellent sight fishing for trout. This remarkable variety allows anglers to combine tropical saltwater fly fishing with classic freshwater trout fishing, making Australia one of the most complete and rewarding fishing destinations in the world.

Key fly fishing species in Australia

Australia’s diverse fisheries support an exceptional range of freshwater and saltwater species:

Bonefish – Found on select tropical flats, particularly around Exmouth and Western Australia.
Permit – Encountered on shallow flats and reef systems.
Giant trevally– Powerful apex predators found around reefs, channels, and coastal structure.
Golden trevally – Highly sought-after flats species known for their distinctive markings.
Queenfish – Fast, aggressive fish commonly targeted along beaches, estuaries, and reef edges.
Barramundi – Australia’s iconic sportfish, found in estuaries, creeks, and mangrove systems.
Brown trout – Tasmania’s signature freshwater species, offering exceptional sight fishing opportunities.
Rainbow trout – Present in selected rivers and lakes, providing exciting dry-fly and nymph fishing.

Aardvark McLeod expertise in Australia

Aardvark McLeod has extensive experience organising fly fishing holidays in Australia. Our team understands the significant differences between Australia’s diverse fisheries and can advise on the best destinations, seasons, and guiding options based on your target species and preferred style of fishing.

Driftwater Lodge

Driftwater Lodge is located close to Deloraine in northern Tasmania in the beautiful Meander Valley. Driftwater’s century-old homestead provides the perfect home for both fishers and non-fishers. Anglers can choose

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