Declan O’Regan, Corryong Courier

A recently established fly fishing and tying club for Years 7 to 12 at Corryong College has created interest among students. Over the course of the term, we’ve been supported by some very generous groups that have provided essential funding to purchase rods, reels, flies, and fly tying equipment. We would like to thank the Towong Shire Council, Black Magic, Mick from Hobie’s Sports Store, Hurley’s Fly Fishing and the Corryong Neighbouhood Centre (CNC).

Throughout the term, our group has met weekly to learn how to cast a fly rod, how to tie flies and how to tie fishing knots. The students have shown exceptional commitment, enthusiasm and respect during the program.

We had our first fly-fishing excursion in May on a very cold day but the prospect of catching some trout kept the students’ spirits warm.

We started at the Swampy Plains River, by the Khancoban airfield and although the fishing was tough as the season was coming to an end, the boys showed great determination and put their newly found skills into practice.

Unfortunately, we only caught one fish, a beautiful brown trout.

After a hot lunch, we then moved over to Thowgla Creek where we were greeted by muddy, fast flowing waters from the previous day’s rain. While there was some activity, these conditions also made it very difficult to fish.

Fortunately, the CNC had organised an excursion to Stoney Creek Trout Farm in Harrietville the following week and there was no shortage of fish caught here!

The students were able to put into practice their fly fishing skills and catch some impressively sized trout.

The boys were able to then observe the harvesting of the fish, pack them into an esky and take them home for dinner.

It has been incredibly rewarding sharing my love of fly-fishing and the outdoors with a great bunch of students and we’re all looking forward to our fishing trips next term.

This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 18 July 2024.