If you're new to fly fishing and eager to build confidence from the ground up, this full day guided experience is the ideal starting point. Our Learn to Fly Fish package offers a hands on, personalised introduction to fly fishing, set against the backdrop of one of Australia's most scenic trout fisheries.

Throughout the day, you’ll alternate between drift boat fishing and exploring the river on foot, giving you a well rounded experience of different techniques and environments. We'll cover the core foundations of fly fishing: casting basics, rigging setups for various conditions, and how to read the water to locate feeding fish. The aim is to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge to fish independently and give you the best possible chance of landing your first trout.

When you book this tour, you're reserving one private guide for the entire day. The experience is exclusively for one or two participants, allowing for an uninterrupted and fully tailored day on the water.

You’ll have the freedom to shape the day around your interests whether you’re focused on refining technique, trying something new, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll along the river with a friend or on your own. This is your day to learn, relax, and connect with nature at your own pace.

All necessary gear is provided. Just bring weather appropriate clothing, your lunch, and a sense of adventure. To help preserve this incredible fishery, all guided tours are strictly catch and release.

This is a full day experience that requires a basic to moderate level of fitness. For safety, all participants must be able to swim, and the minimum age for this tour is 14. Whether you’re here to fish hard or just to enjoy the river’s rhythm, we look forward to guiding you on a memorable first step into the world of fly fishing.

Morning Session:

8:00 AM - 8:20 AM: Meet at Tom's Outdoors in Tumut
Gather at Tom's Outdoors to kickstart your walk and wade day. Ensure everyone has the necessary gear, food, and attire for the day. Secure parking is available for your vehicles.

If you are already camping or travelling from another town in or around Kosciuszko National Park, i.e. Cooma, Jindabyne or Adaminaby, please call or email at the time of booking to arrange a meeting at the river access point for the day.

8:20 AM - 9:20 AM: Head to the Chosen River Spot / or Meet at River Access Point
Load up into the guide's vehicle and embark on a scenic journey to your selected fishing location. Utilize this time to discuss the day's strategy and specific advanced techniques suited for bank and wade fishing.

9:20 AM - 12:00 PM: Walk and Wade
Dive into a morning of bank angling and wade fishing, putting your advanced skills to work. Explore various sections of the river while focusing on strategic positioning, casting precision, and expert fly presentation to tempt elusive fish.

Lunch Break:

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM: Lunch
Take a well-deserved lunch break. Use this time to refuel, discuss advanced tactics and techniques with your guide, and prepare for the afternoon session.

Afternoon Session:

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Walk and Wade Continued
After lunch, continue your bank angling and wade fishing exploration along the river's edge. Target specific challenging areas where your advanced skills can shine and receive guidance from your expert guide on optimal fly selection and presentation.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Advanced Tactics and Strategies
Dedicate the afternoon to honing in on advanced tactics and strategies. Work on specialized techniques and refine your approach to outsmart the wily river residents. Your guide will provide valuable insights to elevate your skills.

3:00 PM: Returning to the Meeting Point
Load back up in the guide's vehicle and return to Tumut. Utilize this time to reflect on the day's achievements and experiences as you make your way back.

4:00 PM: Dropped Back at Tom's Outdoors
Conclude your rewarding day of bank angling and wade fishing by returning to Tom's Outdoors. Connect with your guide to discuss advanced gear recommendations, tackle adjustments, or plans for future fishing expeditions tailored to your expertise.

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:
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:

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?

Food:

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.

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.

Miscellaneous:

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

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 minus the non-refundable deposit.
• 2.2. A 50% cancellation fee applies if cancelled within 3 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.