As the days get longer and the chill of winter turns into a warm breeze, we couldn't help but feel the itch to get on the rivers. The start of the trout season has been interesting to say the least. We've already dived into some exciting fly adventures in two classic NSW spots – the Blue Mountains and Snowy Valleys of New South Wales.
Blue Mountains, NSW: Where Rainbow Trout Rule the Roost
The last few years have been wet, leaving the Blue Mountains with those classic lush agricultural landscape looks, epic small waters and cruising brown trout, but the start of this season was a bit different. Many of the rivers have dried up, leaving us with more stagnant pools than the recent lively streams. But guess what? The Rainbow Trout were still thriving, and they're big and hungry.
To up the game in these dryer conditions, we switched to using streamers. These articulated streamers and classic buggers worked like a charm in the still water. We found the best success by casting close to the edges of pools, letting the streamer sink a second or so and then stripping it in with some twitches to mimic injured prey. Andy cleaning up on a few absolute stonkers.
When it's stinking hot up there, which it often is, be mindful of keeping these fish in the water to give them the best chance of thriving and surviving.
So, if you ever find yourself in the Blue Mountains during a dry start to the fishing season, don't despair. The Rainbow Trout are there, and with a little creativity in your approach, you can still have a epic time on the rivers.
Snowy Valleys, NSW: Floating the Tumut River in 2023/24
In the Snowy Valleys, the Tumut River was calling our name. Thanks to some substantial water releases from the Talbingo Reservoir, the river has been raging this season. They were releasing water to help farmers irrigate their crops due to the scorching start to the season. While the strong flow might have discouraged a few fishos, it actually makes for some really fun water getting in to spots we never would access when the river is lower.
With the increased water flow, the fish were making their way to the flooded banks in search of food. It turned out to be a hotspot for both browns and rainbows. To make the most of the situation we packed the boat with enough gear for 3 days drifting and camping. The drift boat gives us access to the entire river, allowing you to explore every nook and cranny.
Here are three easy tips we've picked up for fly fishing on the Tumut River:
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Choose Your Spot Wisely: Look for spots where fast currents meet slower water. That's where the fish often gather. Any back eddies, pools, overflowing grassy banks.
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Stop and Stalk: Fishing from a drift boat is good, though just walking the banks can be as productive.. just stop and watch any of the slower pools and there's almost always a fish moving through. Just be patient and you'll often have a fish come in to view on the Tumut. Polaroids a must!
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Be Patient and Precise: The Tumut River can flow like a freight train, so it's essential if you're early season nymphing to get down deep. Don't be afraid to get snagged. We'd much prefer to know we're hitting the bottom than being to high up in the water column.
The start of the fishing season in Snowy Valleys and the Central West has been an awesome mix of nymphing, streamers and even the odd dry fly.
Whether you're battling dry spells in the Blue Mountains or navigating a raging river in Snowy Valleys, the start of the fishing season offers unique experiences and plenty of action. Grab your gear and get out there.
If you're looking to book a guided day on the Tumut drift boats, look no further than local legend who knows the water better than anyone Angus (Bong Bong) from Haul Flyfishing. With the best gear and incredible knowledge you'll be sure to lock in to some crackers and a few good laughs.
