In Far North Queensland, a saltwater fly fishing competition attracts passionate flyfishers from across Australia. This legendary event, presented by Australian Fly Fishing Outfitters, provided us with an incredible opportunity to experience it firsthand. What began as an intriguing adventure quickly became an unmissable annual highlight. For newcomers, the competition can be a bit intimidating, but the warm atmosphere fostered by organisers and participants ensures that everyone feels welcome and easily gets involved. In this informative episode, Peter & Andrew delve into the details of the scoring system and the challenge proceedings, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in participating, or who wants to learn about The Hinchinbrook Fly Fishing Challenge and what it means to the flyfishing community of Australia.

With the 2024/25 trout season kicking off, Andrew and Peter have tapped into expert insights to help you pinpoint the best flyfishing locations and techniques for the early season.

Each season presents unique conditions, and this year’s low water levels and some fisheries impacted by cormorants could pose new challenges. To get you prepared, we reached out to our guide network for the latest updates on how their catchments are shaping up.

We start with Finn McDowell, who’s been on the water in Tasmania for a month already. Finn shares his experiences and what’s exciting him this early in the season, including targeting tailing trout and aggressive streamer takes.

Next, we chat with Scott Xanthoulakis from Wilderness Fly Fishing about the North-East region—Melbourne’s most accessible river fishing area and a favourite among Melbourne based anglers.

Moving to Bright, we talk with Cam McGregor about the Ovens, Kiewa, and the exceptional small stream options he guides through River Escapes.

Finally, we head north to catch up with Jimmy Barwick of Snowy Valleys Flyfishing. Although the NSW trout season is still a month away, the warm weather is already having an effect. Jimmy gives us insights into drift boating the Tumut and exploring the Snowy Mountains' best trout fisheries.

During a recent trip to Cocos Keeling Islands, Andrew chats with saltwater flyfishing guru and guide, Rodney Collings.

Rodney splits his time between guiding far north Queensland and the crystal clear flats of Cocos. We find out more about Rodney's flyfishing origins and the world-class areas he guides. For more information on Rodney and AFO, head to www.australianflyfishingoutfitters.com