Drift boat fishing on the Tumut River is the premier guided experience offered here at Tom’s Outdoors. Whether you're a first time angler or have years of experience, our professional guides tailor each trip to suit your needs, preferences, and current river conditions. Every day on the water focuses on building skills, deepening understanding of fly fishing, and of course, catching trout.

When you book this experience you are reserving one private drift boat and a dedicated guide for the day. This is a private tour exclusively for one or two participants, allowing for a personalised and uninterrupted day on the water.

Spend the day exactly how you want to. Whether you want to perfect your cast, learn new techniques, or simply enjoying a peaceful day on the river solo or with a friend this guided drift is all about making the day your own.

The Tumut River offers a rich and diverse trout fishery, home to both brown and rainbow trout. Anglers can explore multiple methods throughout the season, from dry fly fishing for those surface takes, to deep nymphing and targeting trophy sized browns with articulated streamers. If you're a spey, skagit or scandi casting enthusiast, the Tumut is a perfect place to stretch out your casting arms and test your skills.

All gear required for the day is included, just bring weather appropriate clothing, some lunch and a sense of adventure. To ensure the sustainability of our fishery, all guided trips are strictly catch and release.

This is a full day experience that requires a basic to moderate level of fitness, and for safety reasons, all participants must be able to swim. Please note that the minimum age to join the tour is 14 years. Whether you're here to fish hard or just to relax and float with the current, we look forward to sharing the river with you.

Morning Session:

8:00 AM - 8:20 AM: Meet at Tom's Outdoors
As an experienced angler, you're already familiar with the basics. This is the perfect time to make sure everyone has the necessary gear, food and attire for the day. Convenient off-street parking is available for your vehicles.

8:20 AM - 8:40 AM: Head to the River in the Guide Vehicle
Load up into the guide's vehicle and set off on a scenic journey to the chosen fishing location. Use this time to discuss the day's strategy and specific techniques that cater to your advanced skills.

8:40 AM - 12:00 PM: Drift Boat Fishing
Climb aboard the drift boat and immerse yourself in a few hours of fishing. With your experience fly fishing considered, we'll explore advanced strategies for reading the river, identifying prime fishing spots and making precise presentations to elusive fish.

Lunch Break:

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM: Lunch
Take a well-deserved break for lunch. Utilize this time to discuss advanced tactics, exchange insights with fellow experienced anglers, and recharge for the afternoon.

Afternoon Session:

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Tactical Bank Fishing (optional)
After lunch, shift to tactical bank fishing. Explore specific, challenging spots along the riverbank where you can put your skills to the test. Your guide will share strategies for precise fly placement and effective techniques.

2:00 PM - 3:45 PM: Drift Boat Mastery
Return to the drift boat for an afternoon of mastering the river. This session is an opportunity to apply your knowledge, work on specialized techniques, and fine-tune your approach as you drift along the water.

3:45 PM: Arriving Back at the Boat Ramp
Reflect on the day's fishing adventures as you return to the boat ramp.

4:00 PM: Dropped Back at Tom's Outdoors
Conclude your day of advanced fly fishing by returning to Tom's Outdoors. Connect with your guide to discuss advanced gear, tackle recommendations, or plans for future fishing expeditions tailored to your expertise and get the best recommendations for dinner in Tumut.

Please note: this itinerary is an example only and is flexible to change. Timings throughout the day can vary due to weather, river flows and other circumstances.

What's included?

Transport
Your day starts and finishes at Tom’s Outdoors in Tumut. You will be able to park your vehicle in our off-street parking prior to embarking with your guide for the day.

Fishing Gear

Fly Rod and Reel: We supply a suitable fly rod and reel combo for the type of fishing you'll be doing. If you would like to use your own, please consult with your guide about the recommended weight and length.

Fly Line: We make sure you have the appropriate fly line for the fishing conditions.

Leaders and Tippets: We supply a range of leaders and tippets of varying strengths.

Flies: We provide a selection of flies that match the local hatch and fishing conditions.

Waders and Wading Boots: Depending on water conditions, waders and wading boots may be necessary, we will supply these if required.

Fly Floatant: These will help manage the buoyancy rate of your flies.

Nippers and Forceps: Essential tools for cutting line and removing hooks.

Landing Net: Your guide will carry a net to safely land and release fish.

Other

Personal Floatation Device (PFD): Clients must wear a PFD while on-board the drift boat.

Fishing Licence: Clients are exempt from paying the fee for recreational fishing (NSW Fishing Licence) while participating in a guided day with Tom's Outdoors.

What do I need to bring?

Lunch: Our tours are BYO Lunch. Tumut has 2 cafes that can prepare a lunch on the day. Please communicate with your guide if you need to purchase/organise lunch on the day.

Snacks: Bring your favourite snacks and stay energized during the day.

Water: Keep hydrated while on the river, bring a water bottle.

Clothing

Sunglasses: Vital for eye protection and improve visibility on the water. Polarised preferred.

Hat or Cap: A hat helps shield your face from the sun and glare.

Rain Gear: Always be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Wearing Layers: Dress in layers for comfort, especially considering changing weather conditions.

Quick-Dry Clothing: Opt for quick-dry shirts and pants to stay comfortable on the water. Long Sleeved shirts are recommended.

Insulating Layer: Bring a lightweight insulating layer in case of chilly weather.

Buff or Neck Gaiter: Shield your neck and face from the sun and wind.

Extra Clothing: Pack a change of clothes for after the fishing day.

Personal Items

Medications: If you have any necessary medications, bring them along. Please also inform your guide.

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's rays.

Insect Repellent: Depending on the location and season, insects can be a nuisance.

Camera or Smartphone: Capture your fishing memories with a camera or smartphone.

Always remember to communicate with your guide about the specifics of the trip and any on the day requirements you might have.

Terms And Conditions

• 1. Booking Confirmation
• 1.1. To secure a reservation, payment of the tour cost in full is required at the time of booking.

• 2. Cancellations and Refunds
• 2.1. Cancellations made 7 days or more prior to the tour date will receive a refund of the tour fee.
• 2.2. A 50% cancellation fee applies if cancelled within 7 days of the tour.
• 2.3. In the event of adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances, the guide may reschedule the tour at no additional cost or offer a refund, at their discretion. This includes if the guide feels the client's level of fitness is a safety risk.
• 2.4. Guests that arrive late or depart early shall not be entitled to any refund of unused booking.

• 3. Booking Changes
• 3.1. Booking date and/or service changes are subject to availability and must be requested at least 7 days prior to the original tour date.

• 4. Tour Modifications
• 4.1. The guide reserves the right to modify or alter the tour itinerary based on weather conditions, safety concerns or any other factors that may affect the quality of the experience.
• 4.2. If the guide needs to modify the tour significantly, alternative options will be discussed with the client. If no suitable alternatives can be agreed upon, a refund will be provided.

• 5. Health and Safety
• 5.1. Participants are required to disclose any medical conditions, allergies or physical limitations that could impact their participation in the tour.
• 5.2. The guide reserves the right to refuse participation to any individual deemed unfit or incapable of participating safely.

• 6. Liability
• 6.1. Participants are required to sign a liability waiver before the tour, acknowledging the inherent risks associated with outdoor activities, including fly fishing and hiking in alpine regions.
• 6.2. The guidance and the guiding business are not liable for any personal injury, loss, damage to property, or other unforeseen incidents that may occur during the tour.

• 7. Equipment
• 7.1. All necessary fly fishing equipment including rods, reels, lines and flies will be provided by the guide.
• 7.2. Participants are responsible for the care and proper use of the provided equipment. Any damage or loss due to negligence may result in additional charges.

• 8. Conduct
• 8.1. Participants are expected to follow the guide's instructions, respect the environment, and adhere to any fishing regulations and ethical practices.
• 8.2. Intoxication or disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated and may result in immediate termination of the tour without refund.

• 9. Photography and Media
• 9.1. The guide may take photographs or videos during the tour for promotional purposes. Participants who do not wish to be photographed should inform the guide in advance.
• 9.2. Participants agree not to publish, share, or post any footage or photography taken during the tour on any online or social media platforms without prior consent from the guide. Content shared on YouTube must not be published without prior written consent from Tom's Outdoors.

• 10. Rewards Points
• 10.1. Rewards points earned from purchases of goods from Tom's Outdoors are not applicable to guided day bookings.
• 10.2. Rewards points cannot be earned from booking a guided day.