The Flyfisher's Podcast

In this episode of The Flyfisher’s Podcast, we pick up where we left off with Peter Hayes — one of Australia’s most influential flyfishing guides and casting instructors.Peter dives deep into:The importance of line managementHow loop shape ties directly to body mechanicsWhat (and how often) to practice, including the three key stages of practice:Loop controlCasting stroke anglesWater landing effectWe also chat rod design — why Peter has a soft spot for fibreglass and bamboo rods, and how the kinetic whip effect in bamboo could inspire modern rod designs.Plus, we cover:Why slack in your leader is essential for long, natural driftsHow angling pressure and degraded waterways challenge us to become more skilful — and why the harder you work, the more rewarding those fish captures become.If you’re serious about improving your fly casting and fishing, this is one you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Andrew sits down with one of Australia’s most influential flyfishing figures — Peter Hayes. Known for his sharp teaching style, deep understanding of casting physics, and decades of guiding experience, Peter has helped shape the way we fish, and how fly casting is taught across the country.From his early days representing Australia in both flyfishing and competition casting, through to building Hayes on Brumbys — a purpose-built flyfishing school in Tasmania — Peter’s journey is one of passion, innovation, and commitment.Recorded while Peter was in Ballarat running casting clinics and guiding on Lake Wendouree, this chat dives into his career, the evolution of fly fishing in Australia, and his thoughts on where flyfishing is headed, both good and bad.This is the first half of a long conversation — in Part 2, Peter shares practical tips to help you become a better fly caster and flyfisher.

In this episode of The Flyfisher’s Podcast, we catch up with legendary flyfisher and author Philip Weigall to wrap up what was, for many, a seriously tough season. Despite the low water and all the usual challenges (yep, including those bloody cormorants), Phil found ways to not just cope—but thrive. He shares how thinking a bit differently about where and how to fish in dry years can lead to surprisingly good results… in fact, some of his days were all-time bests. It’s an insightful chat packed with practical takeaways. Enjoy the listen!

In this episode of The Flyfisher’s Podcast, we dive deep into the adventure, challenges, and conservation efforts behind fly fishing in the Amazon with Rodrigo Salles of Untamed Angling. Rodrigo has pioneered access to some of the most remote fisheries on Earth, working alongside indigenous communities to create sustainable, world-class fly fishing lodges. He shares his journey, insights on Amazonian species, and what makes these waters so special. Plus, longtime client Ray Malone joins us to reveal why these trips are truly life-changing. If you’ve ever dreamed of casting a fly in the heart of the jungle, this episode is for you!Fly fish the Amazon with Untamed Angling https://www.uangling.com/

We all dream of that near-untouched water, the place where solitude meets success, and the fish are bigger and more plentiful. But is a secret spot really the key to better fishing? And how hard is it to find your own?In this episode, we reveal what it takes to discover your own secret spot—and it’s easier than you might think. While we’ll focus on trout fishing, the insights from our guest apply no matter where or what you fish for.Andrew is joined by Mick Hurren, a seasoned guide and cinematographer from Yea, North-East Victoria. Mick has the most extensive playbook of secret spots we’ve ever come across—so we’ve bribed him with beer to spill his secrets.Whether you're after trophy trout or just looking for a little more water to yourself, this episode will give you the tools to find your own secret spot.

There are few things better than a fly fishing trip that blows all expectations out of the water—and that’s exactly what we got with Aotearoa Anglers in Southland, New Zealand. In this episode, we dive into an unforgettable three-day adventure, from drifting pristine Southland rivers and hiking into backcountry trout paradise to sight-fishing monster browns on the lakes.With expert local guides, top-tier rafts, and some of the most breathtaking fishing locations on the planet, this trip had it all. We’ll share the highlights, the lessons learned, and why Aotearoa Anglers should be on every fly fisher’s radar.

In this episode of The Flyfisher's Podcast, Peter Blackmore and Andrew explore how to plan and execute a successful DIY fly fishing holiday to New Zealand's South Island. New Zealand's South Island is a mecca for fly fishing addicts, offering some of the most diverse and pristine waters in the world. From crystal-clear rivers and challenging backcountry streams to lush lakes and tarns, the South Island has it all. Whether you're an experienced flyfisher or a beginner, this podcast episode will help you navigate the best spots, essential gear, and travel tips for an unforgettable, cost effective, DIY fly fishing adventure.

In this episode of The Flyfisher's Podcast, Peter and Andrew explore how to plan and execute a successful DIY fly fishing holiday to New Zealand's North Island. After the boom of La Nina trout fishing in southeastern Australia, the season has returned to a more typical state, leaving many anglers finding their local fishing experiences less than exciting. If that’s you, it might be time to look across the ditch to New Zealand’s North Island, where trout fishing remains as abundant and world-class as ever. What's more, the 2024/5 season promises some of the best conditions in years.While the idea of international travel might cause some anglers' wallets to tighten, a DIY fly-fishing trip to New Zealand can be surprisingly affordable—starting at just $2,500 for a week of chasing wild, trophy-sized brown and rainbow trout in some of the most pristine waters on the planet.For more handy tips and tricks for the DIY North Island check out this article

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

Simply observing the consistently high-ranked competitive flyfishers reveals there are subtleties to streamer fishing that significantly enhance one's catch rate.As well as deciphering the gear and the flies, Craig explains the 5 basic things we can do during the retrieve, that will transform anyoneinto a lethal streamer angler.

As the river season draws to a close, we shift our focus to the lakes. To fill us in on which lakes are in good shape, we chat with Philip Weigall and get the good oil.

Trout anglers in the southeastern region of Australia may have recently observed a downturn in fishing quality, coupled with white bird droppings coating the rocks near their beloved streams. The return of cormorants has undoubtedly left its mark on the fishing scene in recent months. In order to dissect this situation and provide valuable insights, we sat with Philip Weigall. While these avian visitors may not be our favourite companions, their presence seems to be a lasting one. Fortunately, there are strategies you can employ to catch fish amidst the influx of these persistent birds.

Autumn presents anglers with some of the most rewarding opportunities in flyfishing, but also presents unique challenges. Whether you're targeting delicate sippers, or trying to deal with low flows, Philip shares invaluable tips to ensure you make the most of the river season's closing moments.

When we caught wind that Scott Fly Rod president Jim Bartschi was in New Zealand for the launch of their new Session series, we got excited and gave him a call to find out more.Jim is a global flyfishing identity and is well respected in the trade as a great guy and gifted rod designer. We reveal that the Session is a rod designed for everyone fishing freshwater. Bucking the trend of eyewateringly high prices, the Session is built to the highest standard, at a palatable price.There's real passion behind the Scott fly rod family and this new model. Enjoy!

After a hiatus from the podcast due to a busy shop and lots of fishing, Andrew and Peter sit down to discuss the latest in fly fishing news.From the groundbreaking new Orvis Helios rods to cutting-edge wader technology, there's plenty of new gear on the scene to elevate your fly fishing to the next level. Andrew and Peter also share some bargains that are not to be missed.Tune in to hear all this and more in the latest episode of The Flyfisher's Podcast!

Peter's trip to the north island of New Zealand has come and gone. and with this, a wealth of knowledge has been developed and is thus ready to be passed on. In the latest episode of The Flyfishers podcast, Peter provides the quintessential information for your trip across the ditch. Talking through accommodation, locations, gear and transport, Peter tells all on the north island. listen in for stories of big fish and key details, as this is our NZ 101.

In this episode, we've compiled the ultimate gifts for flyfishers. Whether for yourself, a friend, a colleague or partner, these items are designed to enhance your time on the water or at the tying desk making it more enjoyable and effective.For a more personalized touch, The Flyfisher team is ready to assist with bespoke flyfishing gift options. Wishing you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year from all of us at The Flyfisher!

In this new series, we chat with friends of The Flyfisher whose passion for flyfishing matches our own. We couldn't think of a better bloke to kick it off than Harrison Perrin.Harrison has been a regular visitor at The Flyfisher, and we've keenly watched his passion develop and his experience grow. He's well-travelled and knows his way around a big two-handed fly rod as much as he does a 7'6" 3 weight.Having recently returned from the ultimate nomadic flyfishing trip, Harrison has some sensational stories to tell. We hope you enjoy this latest episode!