Last in our series of opening weekend options is Tasmania’s west coast!

Featuring large lakes, rugged scenery and excellent trout populations, the region is home to some of the state's most underrated fisheries.

Lake Burbury remains one of Tasmania’s most consistent trout waters, supporting strong populations of both brown and rainbow trout. Early-season fishing is typically productive, with opportunities for anglers using a range of techniques. Excellent camping facilities are available at the formal campground on the eastern shore, which includes a boat ramp and toilet facilities. The southern end of the lake around Darwin Dam is also a popular camping destination. All methods of angling can be successful at Lake Burbury, although the lake’s size means a boat provides a significant advantage. Anglers also have the chance to land a $5,000 tagged trout as part of the Tasmanian Tagged Trout Promotion.

Lake Mackintosh is another outstanding early-season option. Trolling is the most popular and productive method, and anglers are encouraged to cover water and move between locations if fish are not active. Bibbed lures and Cobra-style lures consistently produce results, with green and gold colour patterns often performing particularly well in west coast waters. Shore-based lure fishing can also be very effective. The southern end of the lake, commonly known as the Tunnel End, is one of the most productive locations, particularly when water is flowing from Lake Murchison through the Sophia Tunnel. Anglers should note that a clearly signposted exclusion zone prohibits boating in this area. The long inlets where the Vale River and Sophia River enter the lake are also worth exploring, along with the extensive stands of drowned timber found throughout the system. As water levels rise, bait fishing with worms or grubs can be highly effective. Fly anglers may encounter rising fish feeding on midge hatches during calm mornings, although lure fishing remains the primary attraction for most visitors. Lake Mackintosh also contains $5,000 tagged trout as part of the Tasmanian Tagged Trout Promotion. Camping is available around the boat ramps between Tullabardine Dam and Mackintosh Dam, while comfortable accommodation can be found nearby at Tullah.

For anglers seeking a more challenging opening weekend destination, Lake Plimsoll is well worth consideration. The fishery has performed well during the early season in recent years, particularly around inflow areas where trout congregate. Casting hard-bodied lures and soft plastics around these inflows is a reliable approach. Lake Plimsoll is also one of Tasmania’s better waters for targeting brook trout, a species that features on many anglers’ bucket lists. Early season generally offers the best opportunity to encounter brook trout, although they can be notoriously selective and often require persistence. For many anglers, that challenge is part of the attraction!

Get Ready—Act Now!

Don’t miss opening day. Purchase or renew your licence today:

Visit Service Tasmania, your local tackle store, or go to the IFS website. 

Gear up, get licensed, and get fishing—we’ll see you on the water this season!