Deepwater River

The fishing is generally best between December and March, although cod can be caught right the way through the cooler months.

Eight to nine weights are all that are needed here. The fish average 40-60cm and require modest offerings around 3.5-5-inch flies for best results. A full floating or sink tip, weight forward fly line is ideal.

The river is reasonably featureless, so flies should be cast at anything remotely resembling structure: weed beds, boulders, rock bars, heads and tails of pools. Don’t discount the shallow water, as these fish will surprise you with just how little water they need to survive. Tea bagging and ‘dapping’ your flies in little cracks and holes in amongst boulders can be very effective.

New England cod generally aren’t fussy when it comes to flies. Anything with a bit of natural material incorporated into the design, on a 2/0 to 6/0 hook will entice a cod here. Oversized Donny Brascos or deceiver style flies are a good starting point. The same goes for surface flies: natural material and 2/0 to 6/0 hook in either a gurgler or popper style will generally get boofed.

New England headwater fisheries, such as Deepwater River, can be particularly susceptible to the negative effects of fishing due to the high populations of willing fish they support. Please ensure you treat any cod caught with the utmost respect, including practising safe fish handling, catch and release and crushing hook barbs.

Be aware of the Murray cod and trout closed seasons that impact fishing options. Check the NSW DPI website for further information.