On the back of the stormy conditions seen statewide over the past week, water levels are rising all around Tasmania. This will provide some fantastic trout angling opportunities to kick off the spring.

Most rivers around the state have broken their banks. Hungry trout will follow the rising waters in search of food onto the newly inundated areas. Hot spots include anywhere the river has risen out over paddocks, particularly around backwaters where drains and channels enter the main river. Bait fishing with worms in these areas will produce great results, particularly as the waters continue to rise.  Fly anglers will be excited by the ideal 'tailing' trout conditions that these floodwaters provide. It is not unusual for large numbers of trout to be foraging in these flooded areas.

Up in the highlands, the lakes are rising quickly as well. Large numbers of fish will be found on the shore foraging, looking to put condition back on post the winter spawning season. Hotspots will be newly inundated marshy areas, such as those found around Arthurs Lake, Little Pine Lagoon and in the 19 Lagoons area.

Once it is safe to do so, head out and enjoy some of the best flooded margins fishing that we will see this season.

But please do keep in mind that whilst the fishing can be exceptional, safety needs to be the first consideration.

Check the TasALERT website or download the TasALERT App for the latest warnings and road closures.

No fishing is worth risking your life, so stay away from fast flowing water and never attempt to drive through floodwaters.

Tight lines!