October

The lowland rivers started to fire up through October, although the Macquarie seems to be a shadow of its former self with very low flows throughout. Still days did produce some action but until higher, stable levels predominate, it is likely to be patchy at best. The South Esk was excellent, as was the Meander, St Patricks, North Esk and other small streams across the state. The streams had plenty of water and were running cold. This was a good sign for the remainder of the season, as most rivers had needed a “flush” for some time.

October also brought about superb polaroiding on the brighter days in the highlands. It is always difficult to plan “sight fishing” trips for this time of year but if you are fortunate enough to get the right weather, it is very exciting. When the clouds hid the sun, the wet flies were proving just as effective, with warmer days bringing a slight increase in water temperatures. Although very few fish are killed over the course of a season by our anglers, those in October were found to be on scud, snails and the occasional stick caddis.

This trend continued through to the end of November. There was only one day of horrendous weather and that was at the very end of the month. An almost unbearably cold and strong wind was blowing the sleet in from the west but Malcolm and Tammy Fraser braved the elements long enough to catch a lovely brown in almost unfishable conditions.

November »