Regulations
Meander River - Upstream from Strath Bridge
Min size: 220 mm Bag limit: 5 Method: All methods (bait, lures and flies) Season: 5/8/2023 - 28/4/2024
Meander River - Downstream from Strath Bridge to South Esk River
Min size: 220 mm Bag limit: 5 Method: All methods (bait, lures and flies) Season: 5/8/2023 - 2/6/2024
Latest stocking
| Date | Number | Species | Age | Weight (g) | Type | Stocked from | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03/01/2013 | 10000 | Rainbow Trout | Fry | 1 | Diploid | Inland Fisheries - New Norfolk Hatchery | |
| View stocking history... | |||||||
Background
The upper reaches of the Meander River from the Great Western Tiers to Huntsman Lake are typically fast and clear, flowing through State Forest. Huntsman Lake (See separate brochure and map for details.) was created in 2007 by damming the river upstream from Meander township. Since then regulated flows and the fishing in the river have improved downstream from the dam, particularly during summer. Downstream from Huntsman Lake to Deloraine the river is predominantly long runs and pools interspersed with shingly riffles which is the most attractive section from a fly fisher's perspective. From Deloraine to Hadspen the river lives up to its name with many slow runs, higher banks and backwaters that provide excellent fishing for all methods. Brown trout are dominant with both river blackfish and redfin perch present in the lower sections. Rainbow trout may also be encountered downstream from Huntsman Lake.
Getting There
From its source in the Great Western Tiers south west of Deloraine the Meander River flows into the South Esk River at Hadspen 12 km south west of Launceston. Convenient access points exist along the entire length of the river.
Recreational Fish Management
The Meander River is managed as a wild trout fishery.
Angling Notes
Above Huntsman Lake the Meander River is clear, boulder strewn fast water offering challenging angling for small resident brown trout. From Huntsman Lake downstream to Deloraine the river is ideal for wading (with care due to improved flows), upstream nymphing, dry fly fishing and casting with small lures. Between Deloraine and Hadspen the river flows through pasture and cropping farmland with many long runs and broad waters typically with high banks. Many willows have been removed between Strath Bridge and Hadspen making the river more accessible for shore based angling. Bait, lure and fly fishing will be rewarded throughout the season.
Protect Waters
Recreational anglers have a responsibility to look after fisheries resources for the benefit of the environment and future generations. Do not bring live or dead fish, fish products, animals or aquatic plants into Tasmania. Do not bring any used fishing gear or any other freshwater recreational equipment that may be damp, wet or contain water into Tasmania. Check, Clean and dry your fishing equipment before entering Tasmania. Do not transfer any freshwater fish, frogs, tadpoles, invertebrates or plants between inland waters. Check your boat, trailer, waders and fishing gear for weed and other pests that should not be transferred before moving between waters. Do not use willow (which is a plant pest) as a rod support as it has the ability to propagate from a strike.
Pest Fish Management
The pest fish, redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis) and tench (Tinca tinca) inhabit the Meander River system. If either of these species are caught, anglers are asked to humanely kill the captured fish and dispose of appropriately.
Recreational Use
Foot Access for anglers has been provided by the goodwill of landowners and is a privilege not a right. If access is not specifically identified then you must ask for permission or you may be trespassing which is a criminal offence. Please respect private property and abide by the access rules and code of conduct to ensure the continued use of these areas.
Poppy crops are strictly enforced licenced areas. Anglers may walk around the perimeter of crops but must not enter into or interfere with poppy crops.
Do not stray into paddocks or trample crops.
Avoid disturbing stock.
Do not climb on fences.
Leave gates as you found them.
Do not cut down or deface trees for wattle grubs.
Report any unusual fish captures or algal sightings to the Inland Fisheries Service.
Report illegal activities to Bushwatch 1800333000
