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Going Fishing
Tasmania boasts a first rate recreational inland fishery in a world class natural environment.
Wild trout fishing in Tasmania
With its abundant lakes and rivers, rugged topography and temperate climate, Tasmania has developed a world class trout fishery. Since their introduction over 150 years ago, trout have spread or been introduced to most inland waters in the State. Wild populations of brown trout, in particular, exist in even the most remote highland waters and these are considered the ‘jewels in the crown’ of the Tasmanian fishery. Tasmania’s relatively untouched landscape and disease-free status, add significant value to the fishery.
The fishery caters for all angling tastes and skill levels whether you’re a beginner or an expert angler. Bait fishing, lure casting, trolling and fly-fishing are practiced successfully at many waters, but for the purists, there are some waters reserved exclusively for fly-fishing.
What and when to fish
Tasmania’s recreational fishery is based on brown, rainbow and brook trout, and Atlantic salmon. Although many waters have established populations of these species, they are topped up regularly as part of the annual stocking program and some are stocked with fish ready to catch.
The fishing season generally runs from August through to May, but several of the more popular waters, situated close to population centres, are open for fishing all year round. A whitebait fishery, based on native fish species that migrate between salt and fresh water, also operates around October each year.
What you need to know
You require a licence to fish in Tasmanian inland waters (except at a registered private fishery). A variety of options are available with significant discounts for pensioners, juveniles and seniors. Licences can be purchased and renewed online, and are available at 120 agents located in fishing tackle stores throughout the State as well as Service Tasmania shops.
Be aware that the rules relating to catch limits, fishing methods and open season dates, may vary between waters. Anglers should check the regulations before fishing and are asked to report illegal fishing activities.
