Australia is a fly fishing playground most North American anglers barely know about. On this episode of Guided, Josh Hutchins of Aussie Fly Fisher joins us from the other side of the world to talk about running a guide business, making films, and chasing everything from trout to a river predator that eats big topwater flies.
Murray Cod on Topwater
Josh's business covers trout, Murray cod, and saltwater trips in the north of the country. Murray cod are Australia's largest freshwater predator, and Josh says they can grow very large. They eat big flies, and the topwater eats are what he loves most. You do not need huge water either: a big fish can sit in a pool in a small, clear creek and come up to blow up your fly. In the warmer months, throwing surface flies into those small systems can produce many fish in a day, and big streamers work subsurface when needed.
Saltwater in the North
Come the dry season, the focus shifts to flats fishing in northern Australia: permit, giant trevally, queenfish and more. Josh also covers barramundi, which move between salt and fresh water and fight harder than a cod, though a cod's initial pull is something special. A practical safety note from the conversation: in barramundi country, crocodiles are a real factor, so listen to your guide and do not push your luck.
The Strip Strike
Whether it is cod or saltwater fish, the lesson is the same: when the fish eats, strip strike hard. Fish with bony mouths will spit the fly quickly, so a firm strip set rather than lifting the rod gives you the best chance to connect before everything goes wild.
A Simple Leader for Big Fish
Josh keeps his heavy leader simple. He splits a leader of about nine to ten feet roughly in half or thirds, with a heavier section and a lighter section, joined with a double uni or a surgeon's knot. For some of the tougher saltwater species he typically goes for around 20 pound tippet, sometimes lighter.
Lessons for Your Next Trip
- Match your fly size and presentation to the fish: big fish eat big flies.
- Do not overlook small water for big fish.
- Strip strike, then keep the fish out of structure.
- Travel with a guide who knows the local hazards.
Gear
Whatever you are chasing, a well-built leader is the foundation. For a big-profile fly that covers a lot of predators, a pack of Clouser Deep Minnows in chartreuse and black is a good start, and our Five Panel Cap is a good companion for bright flats days.
