Down under, down under, our next trout season is getting closer. Yes Tasmania’s opening is Saturday August 2 for the traditional ‘wild brown trout’ season.

FLY LINES
If you haven’t done so already, clean and straighten the fly lines by pulling off the reel and gently cleaning with mild detergent or preferably the manufacturers recommended cleaning agent.

This helps get rid of any line ‘memory’ that may have built up in the line by being wound on the reel for a long period (ie, since last season).

It also helps the line run through the eyes or ‘shoot’ better when first casting thus laying out straight and true.

REELS
Clean and re-grease, check backing is OK and the knots are still good and strong.

Backing to reel, backing to fly line, then fly line to leader and any tippet or leader joins (eliminate any old wind knots left over from that last rushed trip).

RODS
Check joins are smooth and tighten OK, no loose bindings at eyes/rings, the tip eye is not worn/grooved to wear fly line or damage leaders, etc, and finally grip is OK — not cracked or split.

FLIES
Make sure the hooks are in good nick, sharp and clean, no rust in older ones or damaged hook bends.

Tight lines and best of luck for a good season.