Tasmanian trout fishing icon finally returns

February 17, 2020
After a 25 year battle to eradicate European Carp from Lake Sorell, the much loved Tasmanian trout fishing has officially been re-opened to anglers. A recent article from Inland Fisheries Services reported;

After a 25 year battle to eradicate European Carp from Lake Sorell, the much loved Tasmanian trout fishing has officially been re-opened to anglers.

A recent article from Inland Fisheries Services reported;

From this Saturday, 8 February 2020, the public and anglers will again be able to access Lake Sorell.

This will allow trout fishing for the remainder of the 2019‑20 brown trout season, which closes 3 May 2020.

The intense carp fishing effort has reduced the trout population but we expect it to rebuild naturally over the coming years. The trout population in Lake Crescent was low when it reopened in 2007. Anglers are now catching trophy trout.

With lots of rocky reefs and shallow sections, anglers should be cautious while boating.

Campgrounds and boat ramps are available at Dago Point, which will be the primary point of public access. Silver Plains Road will remain closed until public access is resolved.

Lake Sorell is naturally shallow at this time of year. The wind and water level affects the water quality. The water quality in Lake Sorell is similar to Lake Crescent, which provides some great fishing. Both lakes are slowly improving.

This will be a great opportunity for anglers to reunite themselves with the lake as it rebuilds as a recreational fishery and a chance for a new generation of anglers to experience Lake Sorell for the first time.

This is a major milestone in the Carp Management Program (CMP) but it is not the completion of the CMP and further periods of closure will be required at times to achieve eradication.

The re-opening of the lake is a welcome addition to the Tasmanian trout fishing scene.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-02-05/carp-success-lake-sorell-reopens-trout-fishing/11932166

Ready to book A trip?

Experience all of what fishing in Tasmania has to offer through a personalised fly fishing tour.

Book Now

fly fishing tasmania blog

latest on the blog
Opening Weekend Gear Review: The Setup We're Running on the Lakes

Opening Weekend Gear Review: The Setup We're Running on the Lakes

The early-season lake setup we're running this Tasmanian season: rod, intermediate line, leader and the two-fly streamer rig, walked through by Matt Stone.

read post
Fly Fishing Tasmania: Ultimate Guide For The 2026/27 Season

Fly Fishing Tasmania: Ultimate Guide For The 2026/27 Season

Your complete guide to fly fishing Tasmania for the 2026/27 season: key dates, best spots, gear tips and angler notes from the Trout Tales team.

read post
Off-Season Fly Fishing Gear Checklist for Tasmania's Trout Season

Off-Season Fly Fishing Gear Checklist for Tasmania's Trout Season

Get your fly fishing gear ready for Tasmania's trout season with this off-season checklist covering rods, reels, fly line, waders and storage.

read post

ready to create your own tassie 'Trout tale'?

If you're ready to begin your Tasmanian trout fishing adventure, get in touch to organise your all-inclusive, personalised trout fly fishing tour packages.
view packages