The Snowy Valleys is one of the most picturesque and varied inland fishing areas in NSW.
Murray Cod, Golden Perch, Silver Perch, Redfin, along with Brown and Rainbow Trout await fishers in our rivers, streams and dams. The construction of the Snowy Mountains Scheme provided a heaven-sent environment for fish, and the forethought of local fishing enthusiasts and the Department of Fisheries led to the creation of a fishing paradise. Waterways are regularly restocked with trout and native fish, and the constant influx of cold water from the mountains offers the ideal temperature ideal for trout.
Fly-fishers from near and far visit to try the crystal clear streams, the quality of the fishing matched by the spectacular scenery. One doesn’t need to travel far to find excellent fishing spots; one of Tumut’s best is the Tumut River between the Riverglade Caravan Park and the Junction. Venture into the northern end of Kosciuszko National Park to fish in mountain streams including Yarrangobilly River and Jounama Creek, or try the lower Swampy Plains River near Khancoban, a blue-ribbon trout stream. For those new to fly- fishing, lessons are available from Tumut Fly Fishing and Aussie Fly Fisher.
Fishing in the streams and lakes of the mountains is a rewarding challenge for skilled fishermen, and a lot of fun for the less experienced. Popular rivers and streams include Paddy’s River, Tumbarumba Creek, Tooma River, Nimbo Creek, Goobarragandra River, Adelong Creek, all presenting a different experience for anglers. At our southern border, the Murray River flows past the village of Jingellic, where there is a public recreation reserve suitable for camping behind the historic Bridge Hotel.
Many of the rivers and creeks in the Snowy Valleys are declared General Trout Streams including the Goodradigbee, Murray, Murrumbidgee, and Tumut Rivers and tributaries, while the Khancoban Creek and the Swampy Plains River are artificial fly and lure trout streams. This means that fishing is only permitted in these streams from the beginning of the October long weekend until the end of the June long weekend each year.
Geehi Dam, Happy Jacks Pondage, Khancoban Pondage, Murray 2 Pondage, Tooma Dam, and Tumut 2 Pondage (all at Khancoban), along with Jounama Pondage (Talbingo), Paddy’s River Dam (Tumbarumba), and Talbingo Dam (Talbingo), are all General Trout Dams, and these waters are open to fishing all year round. Fishing of Murray Cod & Silver Perch is permitted in Blowering Dam throughout the year, and Murray Crayfish also prosper here, but regulations apply so always check for local advice.
More information
Check out the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide and the Rules and Regulations Summary to ensure you comply with the current regulations.