Trout Season Begins 2025: Your Complete Guide to Gear, Locations & Techniques

The wait is over - Trout Season 2025 is officially open! Across Australia, anglers are gearing up to hit the rivers, lakes, and streams in search of brown and rainbow trout. Whether you’re a seasoned fly angler or just starting out, this season promises big opportunities and unforgettable fishing adventures.

At Compleat Angler, we’ve got everything you need to make this season your best yet, from the latest lures and rods to insider tips on where trout are biting.


Where to Fish This Trout Season

Victoria:

  • The Goulburn River and Lake Eildon remain top picks for big browns.
  • High country streams like the Mitta Mitta offer pristine waters and strong early-season flows.

New South Wales:

  • Eucumbene and Jindabyne are primed for trophy trout, with cold conditions setting up excellent fishing.
  • Thredbo River is a classic for fly anglers chasing early hatches.

Tasmania:

  • Known for world-class trout fishing, Tassie’s Western Lakes are already drawing serious anglers.
  • Penstock Lagoon and Arthurs Lake are also firing early in the season.

Gear You’ll Need

1. Rods & Reels
A quality light to medium spin rod (2–4kg) or a fly rod (4–6wt) is ideal. Pair with a smooth drag reel to handle lively trout runs.

2. Lures & Flies

  • Soft plastics, spinners, and hardbody lures in natural colours work well in rivers.
  • Fly anglers should pack nymphs, dry flies, and streamers to match early-season hatches.

3. Lines & Leaders
Keep leaders light (4–6lb) for clear streams but go heavier (8–10lb) in bigger lakes where trout push harder.


Techniques to Try

  • Casting Spinners & Lures: Cover lots of water and vary your retrieve to trigger strikes.
  • Fly Fishing: Early mornings with nymphs are deadly, while sunny afternoons often bring dry-fly action.
  • Bait Fishing: Worms and mud eyes under a float remain a classic and effective choice for beginners.

Regulations & Sustainability

Remember to check local regulations before you cast. Bag limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures protect trout populations for the future. Practising catch and release with barbless hooks is a great way to ensure trout fisheries remain healthy.


Compleat Angler’s Top Picks for 2025

This season, stock up on:

Shop your trout gear online at compleatangler.com.au or visit your nearest Compleat Angler store.

Trout Season 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best yet. With the right gear, a good plan, and some smart techniques, you’ll be ready to hook into rainbows and browns across Australia.

Visit your nearest Compleat Angler store or shop online to gear up for trout season. Tight lines and good luck out on the water!

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