World Fly Fishing Championships 2019

Tasmania is an island State of Australia. Situated in the Southern Ocean our wild trout are disease free. Australia and Tasmania have strict biosecurity laws to help protect our environment, our economy and our way of life ¬ the natural values that we all seek and enjoy.

Visitors must

• Declare any used fishing equipment when arriving into Australia from overseas.
• Check, Clean and Dry your fishing equipment before coming to Tasmania.

Preventing Didymo or “Rock Snot” from establishing in Australia

Didymo (Didymosphenia geminata), also called Rock Snot, is a freshwater alga that is widespread in the Northern Hemisphere. Although not present in Australia, it is considered a significant pest, being highly invasive, and everything is being done to prevent it coming to Tasmania.  The Government is working to prevent the introduction of Didymo to Australia at quarantine entry points. Anglers who are visiting Australia or returning home from a fishing trip overseas, are now required to declare all used fishing equipment for inspection.  Please Check, Clean and Dry your fishing gear or other freshwater recreational equipment otherwise before arriving in Australia or it will be confiscated and treated by biosecurity staff.

How to Check-Clean-Dry your gear:

• Check your gear and remove visible clumps of algae or other weeds and seeds.
• Clean your gear by scrubbing and soaking all items for a minimum of one minute in a 2% solution of household bleach (200 ml bleach with added water to make 10 litres) or a 5% salt, nappy or antiseptic cleaner or dishwashing detergent solution. As a greater precaution, use a hot water solution and soak for 30 minutes, and for items that are difficult to clean and dry (like felt-soled boots), soak for 45 minutes in water maintained at 45 degrees or higher containing 5% household bleach, dishwashing liquid or nappy cleaner.
• Dry your gear completely and wait an additional 48 hours. Remember that some materials such as felt soled boots may need much longer, even several weeks to dry. Treatment using hot air at 45°C for at least 40 minutes is a faster alternative when available.

Artificial flies and lures

An import permit will not be required for fishing flies and artificial lures which have been manufactured from processed feathers and/or fur.  For flies which have been exposed to fresh water overseas, these will require inspection to ensure the goods are free from contamination/debris and are dry. Have these readily available in your checked luggage for inspection.

Fly Tying Materials

Feathers and fur will require treatment on arrival into the country and may be delayed for extended periods. The treatment is to prevent the introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease and or Bird Flu to Australia.  Hooks, beads, threads and synthetic materials along with fly tying vices are allowed.  A number of local fishing tackle shops can supply feathers and furs. Pre ordering will ensure they have what you want when you arrive. Essential Fly Fisher (Launceston)  https://essentialflyfisher.com.au

Spot On – The Fishing Connection (Hobart)  https://www.spotonfishing.com.au/