Arthur River is a wild waterway on Tasmania’s north-west coast.
It is known for its trophy-sized sea-run and resident brown trout.
The river has no dams and good seasonal runs of whitebait, with large sea runners reliably chasing whitebait from around October, but often earlier.
Many trout over 10kg have been caught in the lower section of the river, but the fishing is not easy.
The water is tannin-coloured and the riverbanks have thick vegetation, which severely limits landbased access.
Shore fishing is limited to the river mouth near the road bridge.
Boat fishing is more successful and the best method for the big trout is to troll minnows of 12cm to 15cm in length.
It is necessary to use gear that can land big fish, but without scaring fish with overly heavy leaders.
The Arthur River is navigable to 18km upstream from the mouth.
Trolling in the upper navigable section produces resident trout to 5kg.
From around October the whitebait run brings on the sea runners, and the largest resident trout aren’t far behind.
The river also contains estuary perch, which are protected.
In the lower section of the river the other sportfish of note is Australian salmon, which start running around November and stay until March-May, depending on rain.
A beach on the north side of the river has relatively safe shore-based salmon fishing.
Vehicles can reach the beach by turning just before the bridge. The sand is usually hard enough for easy 4WD negotiation.
There is a boat ramp on the southern side of the river, take a left turn over the bridge.
The inner Arthur estuary is fishable in small boats, but the bar region is dangerous.
Large salmon can be caught at Arthurs Beach, Browns Hole, Sandy Cape, Sandy Cape Beach, Netley Bay and Sinking Rock.
These surf spots are best fished in light seas, with easterly weather being best.
At Sinking Rock expect to also catch yellowtail kingfish and silver trevally.
The area south of the Arthur River is managed by the Parks and Wildlife.
A caravan park is available at the township.
Arthur River township is 292km from Launceston on the Bass Highway, about a two-hour drive from Burnie.
The long distance from populated areas helps prevent this area from being fished hard.
Consider releasing the larger trout after taking a quick photo, they are a rare sporting resource.
Here is a list of recommended tackle for Tasmanian waters.
Tasmanian fishing regulations
Tasmanian marine reserves
Tasmanian saltwater fishing seasons
Trout fishing spot access programs
Fisheries assessment reports
Buy a freshwater fishing licence
Tasmanian lake levels (hydro)
Tasmanian river flows (govt)
Tasmanian lake webcams
Tasmanian river flows
Bag and size limits
Private Tasmanian trout fisheries
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