Jindabyne Fishing: Guides & Tips

The quaint town of Jindabyne is scenically located overlooking the shores of Lake Jindabyne in the snowy mountain region of NSW, a premier trout fishing destination with pristine waterways, outstanding facilities for trout fisherman and some of the best fly fishing in Australia.

Jindabyne’s crystal clear lakes, scenic rivers and mountain streams are fed by a cold snow melt and regularly restocked with an abundance of Brown, Rainbow and Brook Trout as well as Atlantic Salmon. Whether you’re casting a fly on the Thredbo River, spinning lures in the deep waters of Lake Jindabyne or seeking solitude on the banks of a remote mountain stream, Jindabyne is a fishing paradise and anglers can’t resist the lure of the Snowy Mountains. Let’s go fishing in Jindabyne!

Jindabyne Lake Fishing

Lake Jindabyne is known for its pristine waters fed from the Snowy, Thredbo and Eucumbene rivers, a tourist attraction for those in search of exhilarating outdoor activities, water sports, sunset cruises and world-class fishing. Whether you’re fly fishing, casting and trolling lures or bait fishing, Lake Jindabyne offers rod-bending excitement year-round and the chance for a trophy catch in the peak season.

In the winter months, the waters are cool and the fish stay close to the edges so whatever method of fishing you’re using, there’s no need to cast far. As the weather warms, the insect life increases and the trout feed closer to the surface and hunt the shallows. When the sun is high it’s time to cast deeper as the fish stay in the depths where it’s dark and cooler.

Trolling is the easiest (and preferred) method for a catch on Lake Jindabyne. Whether you’re using winged lures, inline spinners, tiger worms or powerbait, you’ve got a high chance of a catch. Fly-fishing is best on the shorelines and in the small bays of the lake at first and last light, as the trout move to the shallow waters to feed. There are numerous launching points around the lake for smaller boats with a recently upgraded ramp and new amenity block at Snowline.

A scenic one and a half hour drive from the town of Jindabyne and you’re at one of the best fisheries in the Australian highlands, Lake Eucumbene. This popular, renowned and well-stocked alpine lake lies on the border of the Kosciuszko National Park and is the largest reservoir in the Snowy Mountains, highly regarded as one of the best trout waterways in Australia. A perfect opportunity for the elusive trophy trout.

Streams, Rivers & Headwaters

The streams, rivers and headwaters around Jindabyne are a haven for fly-fishermen. The snow melt brings wild waters, faster runs, rapids and waterfalls and the flow of moving water makes for an exhilarating fishing experience for experienced anglers. The headwaters of the Snowy River include the Eucumbene and Thredbo Rivers. The pristine Thredbo River flows from the town of Thredbo to Lake Jindabyne and is teeming with some of the wildest trout in Australia.

Many of the rivers around Jindabyne do not allow bait fishing and are closed for uninterrupted breeding during the spawn run of June to October . Prime Jindabyne fishing season runs from the October long weekend to the June long weekend.

Trout Farms & Hatcheries

Eucumbene Trout Farm

En-route to Lake Eucumbene from Jindabyne you pass the Eucumbene Trout Farm, a family-friendly fishing experience for all ages. It’s a fun day out with lake fishing, man-made ponds and a ‘sure catch tank’ should all else fail. End your day cooking your catch on the BBQ (“From Lake to Plate”) or savoring award-winning smoked trout or a famed Alpaca burger at the on-site café. The farm is eco-tourism accredited and supplies visitors with the gear to ensure pristine conditions are maintained. A premium Jindabyne fishing experience for rod and reel or fly-fishing.

Gaden Trout Hatchery

The Gaden Trout Hatchery is situated in a beautiful park like setting on the banks of the Thredbo River, near Jindabyne. Fishing is prohibited, however it is a fun and educational experience and a top family-friendly Jindabyne attraction. You can learn about the breeding and rearing of premier cold water sport fish, engage in interactive feeding experiences, take a guided tour of the breeding ponds and hatchery operations and enjoy a picnic or BBQ near the river.

Local Outfitters & Fishing Guides

There’s more to fishing in the Snowy Mountains than meets the eye and there are some tips, hidden gems and secret spots that just can’t be found on Google! Jindabyne’s local anglers and experienced fishing guides know the waterways like no other. Fishing the Snowy Mountains with a local guide provides a first-class seat to the best fishing in Australia. Whether you’re looking for seasonal tips, fishing gear or a fully guided fishing adventure, get in touch with a local Jindabyne outfitter or chat to our guest services, we’ll guide you in the right direction.

Lakeside Lure & Tackle: Lakeside Lures & Tackle at Snowline are local, friendly and affordable. Stop by for all your fishing tackle, gear, accessories and the best advice for fishing in Jindabyne from the owner and local angler, Brian.

Snowy Mountain Sports: Snowy Mountain Sports is located on the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne and is a convenient one-stop-shop for the largest range of fishing bait and tackle in Jindabyne. Their range includes rental gear for fishing, winter sports equipment and clothing rental. As a bonus, they’re always willing to share their local knowledge.

Snowy Monaro Fly Fishing: Snowy Monaro Fly Fishing offers fly-fishing guiding and services throughout the Jindabyne area. Experience the best fly-fishing in the Snowy Mountains with Paul sharing his wealth of experience and local knowledge and guiding you to the most productive fishing waters in Jindabyne.

Clearwater Fly Fishing Guides: From the fast-flowing Thredbo River to the clear waters of Lake Jindabyne, Clearwater Fly Fishing Guides offer guided fishing trips in the heart of the Snowy Mountains. From novice to expert, their lessons and guided day trips will have you loading the rod, casting, drifting and speaking the lingo like a pro.

Fishing Tips

Fly Fishing in Jindabyne requires a current NSW recreational fishing license which must be carried on you at all times. These are available at tackle shops, local service stations or online at Service NSW. If you are not fishing with a guide, it is your responsibility to stay up to date with local regulations and restrictions, water safety, sizing limits and closure zones. Full resources for recreational fishing are available online. Alpine weather conditions can change fast. Check the weather forecast before venturing out on your fishing adventure and plan to head home if you see a front approaching.

Fishing Festivals

Fishing events in the Snowy Mountains:

The Annual Snowy Mountains Trout Festival in the Spring (November)
The Snowy Trout Challenge

Come fishing in the Australian High-Country and the stunning Snowy Mountains … you’ll be hooked!