Regulations

5 fish combined for Western Lakes with only 2 over 500mm

Min size: 300/500 mm Bag limit: 5 Method: Artificials (lures and flies) only Season: 5/8/2023 - 28/4/2024

Background

Lake Fergus lies entirely within the Central Plateau Conservation Area (CPCA), part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA). The Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) are responsible for managing the land area of the CPCA and TWWHA. Lake Fergus presents anglers with an opportunity for a rewarding remote angling experience within a two to three hour walk. This is the only formal public access to Lake Fergus.

Getting There

Access to Lake Fergus is a 2.5 - 3 hour (9.5 km) walk commencing at the Little Pine Dam car park. Little Pine Lagoon is approximately 10km west of Miena on the B11 (Marlborough Road). The walking route to Lake Fergus commences at the Little Pine Dam, crosses the Little Pine River below the dam and follows the western shore of Little Pine Lagoon. At the northern end of Little Pine Lagoon verge left and follow the fence line to the old vehicular bridge. After passing through the gate just north of the bridge the route runs parallel to the old vehicular track along the south western side of the Little Pine River. This latter part of the route is marked with stakes as it follows a narrow (20 m wide) road reserve that passes through private property. The route enters the CPCA at the eastern end of Lake Fergus. Access around the south eastern, southern and south western shores is permitted through a 30m wide reserve around the perimeter of the lake.

Angling Notes

Lure and fly fishing can both be productive. The shallow, clear water favours light tackle and shallow running lures or soft plastics. Early in the season (September - November) when water levels are moderately high, fish can be seen busy 'tailing' within centimetres of the waters edge. Anglers should survey the shallow margins for signs of fish before wading into the lake, particularly at first light and late afternoon. All of the lake's shoreline will produce fish. During summer (December - March) prolific mayfly hatches occur across the entire lake and trout rise freely to take the emerging duns. Emerger fly patterns and various dry flies account for many fish. Polaroiding from the shore or wading is an effective method. The entire shoreline can be easily accessed on foot.

Native Fish Management

The climbing galaxias (Galaxias brevipinnis), the spotted galaxias (Galaxias truttaceus), and the Western paragalaxias (Paragalaxias julianus) have populations in the Little Pine River system and may be present in Lake Fergus. The Western paragalaxias is listed on the State's threatened species list and may not be disturbed or harmed in any way.

Boating

The Parks and Wildlife Service regulate boating in the Western Lakes area. Motorised boating is permitted on Lake Fergus (electric motors only).