Trout Fishing 101: How to Catch Trout Fish in Australia

Trout Fish in Australia 

Even in the strange environment of Australia, which is not home to Trout, there is a fair amount of fishing for these non-native fish. British immigrants introduced various salmonids, including rainbow, brook, and brown Trout, to our southern areas in the nineteenth century, and they are now common in rivers and lakes.

Although they have ancestry from North American and European broods, the Trout in this area have adapted successfully to the Australian environment, making their capture all the more difficult. 

Midway through the 1800s, efforts were made in Tasmania to bring Trout to Australia. Subsequent generations saw the successful rearing and stocking of Trout in other states, allowing them to establish self-sustaining populations. A portion of the breeding stock was first imported from New Zealand, which had already been introduced with great success from the northern hemisphere. Australian Trout is unique because of factors from generations of hatchery and wild-spawned fish. 

• Brown Trout Fish: Brown Trout aren't always brown. Thus, the name could be deceiving. Depending on their habitat, Brown Trout may be silver or golden. This species of Trout may be easily identified despite its variable colouration.

• Brook Trout Fish: The brook Trout, scientifically known as Salvelinus fontinalis, is not a Trout. The brook Trout is the tiniest fish.

• Rainbow Trout Fish: Rainbow Trout is one of Australia's most famous Trout species. The term "rainbow Trout" is derived from the pink stripe that may be seen on their flanks. However, there are other identification methods. The square, broad tail and black dots on the belly and dorsal fin of the Trout are further telltale signs.

These speckled survivors will be there for the foreseeable future, whether you like it or not. While some may pass up a chance to fish for Trout just because they are introduced, adventurous and sporty fishermen love them.

When and Where To Find Trout Fish in Australia?

Always verify local rules before venturing out since Trout season changes yearly and from state to state. The Trout spawn during the closed season, so know when it is in your state. The best places to go Trout fishing during the off-season are lakes and impoundments, where you may cast a line at any time of year.

All Trout, whether hatched in an incubator or raised in the wild, need water that is cold, clean, and rich in oxygen to flourish. Thus, from an angling point of view, it is often more fruitful to seek out water at higher elevations in the summer or cast your line into rivers in wooded regions, which provide shade, excellent flows, and depths. For lake fishing, waterways with a depth of 2.5 meters or more may keep Trout cool even in the hottest months. This is especially true of waters in the south or the mountains.

Fishing for Trout in Victoria: All across Victoria, you may find lakes and rivers home to Trout. Thanks to a strong stocking programme, lakes around the state also have good fishing and maintain wild populations in many rivers. Lake Eildon, the streams leading into and out of it, and Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri are excellent jumping-off points.

Fishing in NSW: Regarding Trout fishing in New South Wales, the best spots are in the highly rated Snowy Mountains and Monaro areas. Some famous rivers that provide excellent fishing and beautiful scenery include the Thredbo River, Lake Eucumbene, the Upper Murrumbidgee River, and Lake Jindabyne.

Fishing in South Australia: Although it may not be as plentiful as its bordering states, ancient South Australia did manage to keep a Trout fishery going strong with respectable numbers of Brown and Rainbow Trout in a few smaller streams and reservoirs.

Trout Fishing Gear 

One of the several benefits of fishing for Trout, as opposed to other species, is that you can get away with very little gear. Learning how to fish for Trout may be more cost-effective than learning how to fish for different species, as you only need essential gear. 

Trout Fishing Lures & Rigs

Trout uses many primary kinds of lures to mimic the food they consume. Bring one of these items if you plan on going trout fishing. The ideal hardbody lure for trout fishing will vary with the time of day and the location you're targeting. One of the most time-tested techniques for catching Trout is a light-spinning combination with inline spinners. 

Even though crankbaits aren't usually your go-to when fishing for Trout, huge Trout will bite on a crank that's one-third or one-half their size. Because of their keen teeth, Trout can quickly devour chunks of fish that are too large to swallow whole, and they don't need much to satisfy their snacking needs.

• Crankbaits may not be your go-to bait when Trout fishing.
• There has been a long history of hardbody lures.
• Realistic-looking lures that are lightweight and have excellent motion.

Trout Fishing Baits

In their quest for food, Trout aggressively and opportunistically consume various insects, crustaceans, tiny fish, worms, amphibians, and even small mammals such as mice. You could be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options when looking for Trout fishing baits, lures, and flies.  We will review each category to make things easier for you and then point out the most common ones.

Trout Fishing Spinners & Spoons

To catch summer Trout, a fun technique is to cast a metal bait, such as a spoon or spinner, and watch as the fish pounce with unexpected power. The colour spectrum is quite broad, but most bases may be painted in shades of gold, silver, or copper to mimic the tones of various baitfish. A straight, steady retrieve will bring in many fish when fishing with aggressive fish. Change the retrieval speed to capture the fish at different times; some days, they'll need to be more active and respect the quicker one.

Spoons have a special place in the spring Trout jig. Because of its extra weight, you may throw farther from bank-fishing spots to areas where feeding Trout cruise, and their swaying, back-and-forth action is drastically different from spinners' straight spiralling. Our top picks for traditional spoons are the 1/12th to 1/8th ounce KastMasters, 1/10th and 1/16th ounce Swedish Pimples, and 1/16th and 1/8th ounce Blue Fox Flash Spoons. 

Trout Fishing Rods

You only need a high-quality spinning rod and reel set for bait and lure fishing. A 7-foot rod weighing 2 to 4 kg and a 2000-sized reel is essential. A braid weighing 4 to 6 pounds and a leader weighing 4 to 6 pounds may be wound onto the reel. To cast the bait, all you need is a size six hook, a 30-centimetre leader that comes off the swivel, and a basic running sinker rig that is lightly weighted. You may use the same setup for lure fishing; the only difference is that you must attach your lure to a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. Several stores offer affordable spinning rod and reel sets from $70 to $150.

The appropriate line weight may be readily determined by referring to the labels on fly rods, which range from 1 to 15. The 'actions' (the way a fly rod bends) and materials (carbon fibre, bamboo, fibreglass, etc.) utilized to make these rods vary, affecting the rod's 'feeling' while casting and the angler's budget. Depending on the brands and specifications chosen, a basic, high-quality freshwater fly rod and reel set may cost anywhere from $300 to several thousand dollars.

Trout Fishing Lines & Leaders

Numerous varieties of lines are at your disposal while fishing for Trout. There isn't much of a difference in line thickness these days, so the amount of braid you use may range from 4 to 12 pounds; what matters is your personal choice, the location you'll be fishing in, and the size of fish you'll be targeting.

The size of your leader may be adjusted to suit your taste. Typically, anything from 4-10lb would work, but it depends on the location and size of the fish when choosing a size. For the leader material, you can use fluorocarbon or monofilament. If you'd instead not use a leader and instead fluorocarbon or monofilament as your primary line, that's OK.

Trout Fishing Extras

In addition to the standard equipment for Trout fishing, you should also bring a hand nett, stringer, hemostats, fisherman's jacket, sunglasses, a portable cooler, or even a boat. On the other hand, you never remember to bring a portable power source. This will be useful for charging your electric fish finder, phone, GPS, or even your boat, among other fishing equipment.

In contrast to gasoline generators, which are unsightly, loud, and need maintenance and refilling regularly, solar energy is quickly becoming the preferred portable power source. You can charge all your fishing necessities with solar power with the Jackery Solar Generators, which are perfect for Trout fishing.

Jackery Solar Generators for Trout Fishing

Jackery is a famous manufacturer of high-quality solar products, such as the Jackery Solar Generators. A Jackery Solar Generator is a portable solar power system that transforms sunlight into electricity before storing it in batteries for later use. Solar generators are easy to maintain, produce no harmful emissions, and run silently, compared to conventional gas-fired generators. 

Jackery Portable Power Stations offer multiple power output options, such as AC outlets, DC connectors, and USB ports, to charge electronics and power home appliances. The Jackery Solar Generator 500 and 300 Plus are lightweight and portable, making them perfect for Trout fishing. By connecting Jackery Solar Panels to Jackery Portable Power Stations, the Jackery Solar Generator maximises solar energy use.

Jackery Solar Generator 500 

is a unique power supply developed to meet the changing needs of outdoor enthusiasts and fishing anglers looking for a dependable power source outside the traditional grid. With a 518Wh capacity and a 500W inverter capable of handling surges of up to 1000W, this power station stands out as a versatile and durable choice for various applications.

The Jackery Explorer 500 portable power station has several outputs, including AC outlets, DC ports, and USB connections, allowing it to charge multiple devices simultaneously. Because of its adaptability, it can be used with a wide range of electronics, including phones, fish finders,  computers, and cameras. It's beneficial for outdoor group activities where multiple individuals may need to charge their devices simultaneously.

One of the main advantages of the Jackery Solar Generator 500 is its portability. Its lightweight design, along with a convenient carry handle, make it simple to transport. This is essential for fishing, hiking, boating, and camping when space and weight are frequently limited. Its small size allows it to be readily stowed in a car, boat, or carried by hand, making it an ideal alternative for various outdoor activities. 

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus

The Jackery Portable Power Station 300 Plus marks a substantial breakthrough in portable power solutions, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers. It combines SolarSaga 80W solar panels with The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station, weighs only 8.27 pounds, and is incredibly lightweight and portable, making it an excellent partner for various outdoor activities. Its small size enables convenient storage in a car, RV, or boat, guaranteeing that power is always available for fishing, camping, or water sports such as boating. 

Safety is a top priority for Portable Power Stations, and the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus excels. It includes 52 protection measures and 12 battery management system algorithms. These systems operate together to avoid problems, including overcharging, short-circuiting, and overheating. It also contains four forms of physical protection, ensuring the device's safety and functionality in various environments.

How to Catch Trout Fish in Australia?

Licensing requirements, closed seasons, size and bag limitations, fishing techniques, etc., are all subject to state control for trout (and other species) fishing. A Recreational Fishing License is required when fishing for fun in Australian waters unless you fall under an exception. Therefore, you should verify your exempt status before setting sail. They sell licenses on their website. There are many ways to fish for Trout, depending on your skill level and inclination.

Method 1: Fly Fishing

Unlike any other kind of fishing, fly fishing is an art form in and of itself. Many people will go on this fishing technique and be hooked for life. For those just starting, it's recommended to consult an expert or knowledgeable friend or family member for advice on casting and rigging methods. Fly fishing calls for specialised poles that can throw very delicate artificial flies. This will work wonders if the stream is shallow, with just a few deep pools here and there. 

Method 2: Drift Fishing

No matter the circumstances, this approach may provide excellent results. You may cast your line over a wide area and catch many fish. Cast a split shot 12–24 inches from the hook as a starting point. When fishing is sluggish, use a leader. Use a longer leader and a more significant split shot for deeper, faster-moving water. Fish using a little treble or salmon hook. When using a treble hook, mould your bait completely onto the hook.

Method 3: Float Fishing  

With the addition of a bobber, this technique is similar to drift fishing. It is advised to use a tiny, slim floater. To catch Trout at different depths, you need to adjust your floater. When the floater suddenly moves, set the hook.

Method 4: Tight Lining  

Even though it's the most straightforward technique, bottom fishing may provide excellent results. If fishing in calm water, you can use your polarised glasses to see Trout more easily. Once you've decided on a hook and bait, the next step is to rig it by crimping the split shot 12 to 24 inches above the hook. Cast your line upstream from the fish after letting the bait settle to the bottom. While you wait for a strike, wind up your slack line and unwind.

Method 5: Jig Fishing  

Marabou jigs have been successful year after year, but there are many more artificial lures. Sizes range from 1/16 ounce to 1/256th of an ounce and are available in a rainbow of colours. The most effective colours are a mix of yellow, olive, white, black, and brown. Floats aren't necessary while drift fishing using marabou.

In fast or deep water, particularly when casting light jigs, a split shot isn't required unless it enhances your presentation. It may be necessary to reduce the tail length of heavier jigs by half or even more.

Trout Fishing FAQs

The frequently asked questions about Trout fishing in Australia are listed below:

1. What is the best bait for Trout fishing?

You may choose the right bait for trout fishing from various baits, including live bait and vibrant artificial baits. How, then, may one go about casting a line for Trout? 

• Power Bait: It is the preferred option for Trout fishermen. When it comes to rainbow Trout, Berkley Powerbait is unrivalled. Rainbow Trout can't resist the irresistible lure of Berkley's special Trout-enticing putty.

• Micetails: Its design was inspired by fishers who employed hookbait, which consisted of an egg and grub cocktail. As a soft plastic bait, a micetail looks like a cross between a grub and an egg, making it ideal for fishing. Its peculiar appearance has kept its status as an essential bait for trout fishing.

• Maggots: Trout fishermen have relied on maggots as bait for many years. The little white grubs are a delicious wriggly feast that Trout has difficulty saying no to. Maggots may outfish artificial baits if presented on the correct day. 

2. What is the technique for catching Trout?

The spring and autumn are excellent times to go fishing in most streams and rivers since the water is colder. You will probably be fishing for wild or naturally reproducing fish, as very few streams and rivers are stocked. The water becomes oxygenated as it tumbles over rocks in quicker riffles, so watch for Trout as the water grows warmer.

Techniques for Fishing in Lakes & Ponds: Keeping bait suspended under a bobber. To begin, bait your hook with a small amount of PowerBait, worm, or a comparable product. Attach a bit of lead weight slightly above the hook to assist the bait in sinking, and affix a bobber 1 ½ to 3 feet from the hook. Set sail toward a promising area and patiently await the bobber's wriggling, diving, or jerking to strike. Fishing near the surface or over weeds is a great way to keep your bait and hook suspended.

Use of bottom-dwelling bait in fishing. Depending on the conditions, Trout may be found in deeper water. Therefore, it's essential to cast your bait accordingly. Using a bobber to hang the bait is not part of this method. A lead weight is substituted by attaching it about 1 ½ feet above the baited hook before throwing it out. The bait will float 1 ½ feet above the lake bottom while the lead weight will sink.

Technique for Fishing in Rivers & Streams: Instead of your retrieve controlling the lure's movement in flowing water, it is the current itself. You may create a natural "drift" by keeping as much fishing line out of the water as possible as the current dragged the spinner downstream. Starting a modest retrieve is the next step once the spinner has swung toward the beach and travelled straight downstream.

Use enough split shot to drift a worm or artificial bait (like PowerBait) down to within an inch or two of the water's surface. A bobber can monitor the bait's movement better.

3. Is catching Trout easy?

Wild Trout can be challenging to catch. Slow water makes them more intelligent and selective. Reading the stream and locating them is essential when fishing in faster water. Even skilled fly fishermen sometimes miss hits when the conditions are right.

Final Thoughts

Remember to enjoy every moment of your Trout fishing experience. There will be terrible days and fantastically worthwhile days. Additionally, finding your inner joy is the key to Trout fishing in Australia. There are a variety of obstacles that you must overcome, and sometimes, even with these suggestions, you will still fail. Also, to make sure your devices stay charged and everything runs well on your fishing trip, a Jackery Solar Generator is a good idea to bring along.