Exploring Tasmania's Western Lakes
Ah, Tasmania! That little jewel beneath Australia shimmering with pristine waters, breathtaking landscapes, and some ofthe best fishing spots in the world. From the thrilling tussle with Southern Bluefin Tuna off the East Coast to chasing snapper, kingfish, and the elusive Black Bream in vibrant estuaries, Tasmania is a dreamland for anglers. The ongoing debate about which state boasts the best bream fishing often leads back to Tasmania, where 40cm-plus Bream are luring fishing enthusiasts to our dazzling estuaries.
However, the crown jewel of Tasmania's aquatic wonders is undeniably its trout fishing. With thousands of hidden lakes, rivers, and even mysterious ponds hosting these beauties, it's no surprise that flies and lures will be wetting your line for nine out of twelve months in Tasmania’s clime. Venture around Hobart, and you'll find charming creeks and rivers tucked into the urban fabric—a testament to the state’s plentiful trout, even in the most unassuming places.
For the true adventurer, Tasmania's Central Highlands holds a secret treasure: the Western Lakes. This pristine region is comprised of over 3,000 lakes; many stocked with trout since the early 19th century. These waterways connect through natural springs and creeks, providing perfect spawning grounds, nurtured by the wild essence of nature that results in true wild Brown Trout.
Picture this: You wake up each day, completely isolated in one of the world's most beautiful corners, feeling invigorated and free from work emails and phone calls. Here, exploration is the name of the game. You’ll find yourself thinking, “What lies over that hill?” or “What’s that hidden lake like?” It’s an invitation to adventure, and every trip is a chance to create memories. Pro tip for fellow anglers: keep a detailed diary of your fishing trips. Jot down the lakes you visit, the gear you use, and the ever-persistent weather patterns. Understanding fish behaviour can turn a good day into a legendary one.
Now, let’s talk about the journey to reach these lakes. Accessing the Western Lakes is no stroll in the park! Whether you’re 4WDing in or hiking through rugged terrain, every trip tests your resolve. A day trip can mean waking before dawn and packing your essentials to explore 20-30 kilometres of untouched wilderness. Along the way, beware of Tasmania's sneaky snakes slinking amongst the shrubs—Tiger Snakes being the most notorious.
One of my favourite route’s winds up to Lake Mackenzie, just an hour from Deloraine—a scenic drive that lifts you high into the mountains. Once you arrive, you’ll meet the likes of Lake Explorer and Snake Lake, each promising a unique fishing experience. With over 30 lakes within a 20 km radius, there's no shortage of opportunities to cast your line.
Fishing tactics vary widely depending on the lake you’re targeting. Some are deep,where jigs and heavy lures reign supreme, while others, like shallow Lake Explorer, might have you using lighter, shallow-diving lures. Many anglers find success with fly-fishing here, but I prefer a more interactive approach. Creating mud trails with your lures along side the shore can be an exhilarating way to entice those hungry trout into action. Seeing a trout soar through the water to chase after your lure is a spectacle you won't soon forget!
Whenever you find yourself out on these lakes, you might question your fishing prowess as every lake presents a fresh challenge. It’s unlike any other Tasmanian Highland fishing experience, where one gets into a rhythm and hauls in fish with ease. Each lake is its own majestic world, and every fish caught is a personal victory for the journey you took.
Some of my fondest memories of fishing the Western Lakes include a memorable trip with my mom, where we scaled mountains to raise funds for cancer research, a tribute to my auntie who we lost to the disease. Capturing a stunning 5lb wild Brown trout—it felt as if the fishing gods were smiling that weekend.
And on a recent trip, a stunning 55cm trout glided gracefully just meters from shore as I approached. A carefully calculated side cast landed me the catch of the day, witnessing the trout's delightful and instinctive response to the lure. Such moments capture the thrill of wilderness fishing.
Despite the best fishing stories, my favourite part of any expedition to the Western Lakes is the connection it fosters. In our tech-savvy world, taking a weekend getaway with friends, breathing in the fresh air, and staring up at a sky full of stars is the ultimate escape from the daily grind.
However, a few seasoned tips to ensure your fishing trip goes swimmingly include packing light, preparing for the rugged terrain, and being physically fit to navigate those rocky paths. A compact tackle box with your favourite 20 lures will keep you agile, and remember: the less you carry, the farther you can roam. Don’t forget essentials like a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and a comprehensive first aid kit.
So,what are you waiting for? Dive into Tasmania’s extraordinary fishing experience! Whether it’s fly-fishing or lure-tossing, this breathtaking corner of the world awaits you. Who knows, I might just see you there on my next adventure.
Lookout for the YouTube video dropping soon on my Western Lakes trip on FishinStraya!
