Frequently Asked Questions & Prices
A transparent and easy-to-follow guide to ensure your fly fishing experience is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
1. One-on-One or Group Experience: You Decide
If you’re seeking a more personalised adventure, booking solo ensures a 1:1 ratio with your guide. Opt for a more social experience by booking with a friend, increasing the guide ratio to 1:2. If your group exceeds two people, we can either introduce an additional guide or offer a reduced fee for the third person.
For larger groups, we’re happy to negotiate a rate that fits your needs and budget.
Note: Drift boat trips accommodate a maximum of two anglers per boat. If your party is larger, we have additional boats. Group workshops vary with a ratio of up to 1:5 to maintain affordability.
2. Advance Reservations: Beating the Crowd
While last-minute bookings are generally accommodated, we recommend securing your spot as early as possible. Peak holiday periods and long weekends may require bookings up to a month in advance. However, don’t hesitate to enquire about last-minute availability – with eight guides on staff, we’ll do our best to fit you in.
3. Non-Fishing Partners: Everyone’s Welcome
Non-fishing companions are welcome aboard the drift boat. Plentiful wildlife and stunning scenery make for an enjoyable trip for all. Remember to pack weather-appropriate attire, a camera or binoculars, and perhaps a book for downtime.
4. Guide Allocation: Matching Expertise with Your Needs
Unless a specific guide is requested, allocation occurs on the day of your trip. We endeavour to pair clients with the most suited guide for their desired experience. If unforeseen circumstances arise, we’ll provide a substitute guide of equal expertise.
5. Request the Same Guide
If you’d prefer to fish with the same guide each day, let us know during booking and we’ll do our best to accommodate this request.
6. Meeting Point
Our guided trips commence from our Alexandra base unless pre-arrangements are made. We’ll contact you 24 – 48 hours before your trip to finalise details. We suggest arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time for a smooth kick-off.
Note: Fishing in high-summer or during full days and late afternoon sessions can result in late finishes. If you have time constraints, please communicate this during booking.
7. Weather Conditions
Fly fishing is an outdoor activity, and some of the best experiences can occur in less than ideal weather. If conditions appear unfavorable, trust our expert judgment. We’ll postpone your trip or offer a full refund if necessary. Remember, the conditions on our side of the Great Divide often differ from Melbourne’s weather.
8. What’s Included in Your Adventure
The fee covers:
- The guide’s time
- Use of fly gear (replacement costs apply if broken)
- Transportation to/from local accommodation
- Flies/terminal tackle
- A memorable day on the water
9. Selecting Your Fishing Destination
Whether you’ve got your heart set on a specific waterway or you’re open to exploring new territories, we’ve got you covered. While many of our clients prefer us to use our local knowledge to select the best fishing spots, we’re also open to your suggestions. Your guide, equipped with up-to-date information, will make the perfect call to ensure an outstanding fishing experience.
Remember, your guide’s recommendation is based on years of experience, but do voice any specific expectations or preferences you might have for the day.
10. Preparing for Your Trip
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fly fishing, here are a few tips to get ready for your trip:
- Experienced Anglers: Practice makes perfect. Brush up on your casting skills at a local park or nearby water body. However, remember that water-based practice is the most beneficial.
- Beginners: Avoid practicing casting before your trip. We aim to impart the right techniques from the start, thus eliminating the need to unlearn any misguided habits.
11. Essential Gear for Your Session
Don’t stress about what to pack for your fly fishing adventure. Here’s a quick checklist:
For Beginners:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Weather-appropriate clothing (avoid bright colours)
- Belt for waders (we’ll provide the waders)
For Experienced Anglers:
- All the items recommended for beginners
- Regular trout fly fishing gear
- Floating fly line (preferably olive, green, grey, brown, or any dull colour)
- Appropriate waders or hip boots depending on the season
- A small day pack for personal items
- A personal water bottle or camelback for non-boat sessions in summer
Please remember, bright colours can spook the fish. Stick to subdued hues for your gear and clothing.
If you don’t have the correct gear or need help setting it up, notify us in advance. We’ll ensure everything is ready for your fishing adventure.
12. Staying Informed
We operate Australia’s longest-running fly fishing report website. Members can access up-to-date reports on the site, while non-members can call us for brief reports.
Dial 03 5774 3928 to get the current river level information, updated daily at 9am.
And remember, if you have any questions or need further advice, we’re just a call or an email away.
13. Our Catch and Release Policy
In our commitment to protecting Australia’s fisheries, we enforce a strict catch and release policy. Every fish caught under our guidance must be returned to the water unharmed. By promoting sustainable fishing practices, we aim to safeguard our waterways for generations to come.
14. Can children participate in the fly fishing sessions?
Indeed, we warmly welcome the involvement of children in our fly fishing sessions. The pursuit of fly fishing can be a rich and rewarding experience for young people, fostering a deep appreciation for nature and instilling a conservation ethic that can last a lifetime. However, due to the technical nature of fly fishing and for safety reasons, we suggest that children should be at least 10 years old. Nevertheless, age can be just a number and a child’s maturity and interest level are often better indicators. If your child is younger but you believe they are ready for the experience, please discuss this with us so we can make an informed decision together.
15. Do you accommodate for special needs and mobility issues?
We are committed to making fly fishing accessible to everyone. If you or someone in your party has special needs or mobility issues, please let us know in advance. We will do our best to accommodate and ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and rewarding fishing experience. However, it’s important to note that some of our fishing locations may be difficult to access for those with severe mobility issues.
16. How do I book a session?
To book a session, simply contact us via phone or email. We’ll discuss your needs, expectations, and availability to select the perfect day for your guided fly fishing trip. Please book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak fishing season.
17. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my session?
Safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. In the event of severe or unsafe weather, we may need to postpone or cancel your session. In such cases, we will attempt to reschedule your session at a mutually convenient time. If rescheduling is not possible, we will provide a full refund. We monitor the weather closely and will keep you updated if anything changes that may impact your session.
18. Payment Methods: Convenient and Easy
We accept various forms of payment, including cash, bank transfers, and all major credit cards. Enjoy a $50 discount, when paying the balance in cash on the day of your trip.
19. Safety Precautions
All our clients are supplied with a top-of-the-range inflatable PFD (Personal Flotation Device), ensuring your safety during the trip. We conduct a brief safety talk at the beginning of each drift. Self-inflating PFDs can be supplied upon request, but users are responsible if they activate one unintentionally. The base cost of shipping, reconditioning, and re-certifying a triggered self-inflating PFD is $150.
20. Scenic Drifts: Embrace Nature
We provide drinking water and a pair of binoculars for bird and platypus viewing during scenic drifts. You can learn more about these types of trips here.
21. Pricing Structure
Our listed prices are for the service advertised, not per person. For example, if you book a half-day drift boat trip at $650, the price is for the boat and guide, irrespective of whether one or two people participate. If you book it 1:1, it would be $650; if you booked with a friend, it would be $650 split two ways, or $325 each.
Please note that our prices are subject to change and will be reviewed on July 1 of each year.
Pricing
Our professional guides are excited to help you hone your fly fishing skills and reveal the secrets of successful streamcraft. We offer both half-day and full-day experiences, with gear and flies included if needed.
Pricing (all prices in AUD):
- Half Day (4-5 hours): $550 for 1 or 2 anglers
- Full Day (8 hours): $750 for 1 or 2 anglers (BYO lunch)
Pay the balance in cash on the day of your trip and enjoy a $50 discount. Drinking water and coolers are included for your convenience.
Drift Boat Adventures
Experience the tranquility of a drift boat trip, designed for 1 or 2 anglers. Enjoy the best fishing the Goulburn has to offer while improving your fly fishing skills under the guidance of our experienced staff.
Pricing (all prices in AUD):
- Half Day (5 hours): $650 per boat
- Full Day (8 hours): $850 per boat (BYO lunch)
Your safety is our priority; a high-quality inflatable P.F.D. and safety briefing are provided. Our trips include drinking water, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and coolers for your convenience.
Note: Prices listed are for the service as a whole, not per person. For example, a $650 half-day drift boat trip is the total price, regardless of whether there’s one or two of you.
Please remember that prices are subject to change and are reviewed each July.
Weekend Fly Fishing Workshops
Join our weekend workshops, offering hands-on instruction from skilled instructors with a small instructor-to-participant ratio (1:5). This engaging 2-day experience costs $490 per person and includes all gear, course notes and water. Bring a friend and save $$.
Exciting International & Local Trips
Delve deeper into the fly fishing world with our specialized trips. Each includes lodging, guided fishing, meals, transport and flies.
| Trip Name | Dates | Duration | Price (AUD) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand Trip | Jan – Mar | 7 days | Prices on application. | 7 nights accommodation 6 days guiding. All meals, transport, and flies. |
| Montana Trip | Jun – Aug | 12 days | Prices on application. | 12 nights accommodation 9 days of guided fly fishing. All transport. |
| Goulburn Adventure | Sep – Jun | 5 days | $2,900 | 5 nights accommodation 4 days of drift boat fishing, all guiding, meals, transport. |
| Autumn Adventure | Mar – Jun | 5 days | $2,900 | 5 nights accommodation, 4 full days of drift boat fishing. All meals, transport, and flies. |
Note: Prices are subject to change and will be reviewed on July 1 of each year.
Fishing Licenses
Fishing licenses are required for local rivers and can be purchased online here.
- 1-day Victorian Licence: $5.50
- 3-day Victorian Licence: $12.00
- 1 Year Victorian Licence: $26.00
- 3 Year Victorian Licence: $66.00
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
For further information or to secure your booking, please phone us on 03 5773 2513. We require a $100 deposit to confirm bookings, with the balance due on the day of your trip. Don’t forget to familiarise yourself with our Cancellation Policy.
Immerse yourself in the world of fly fishing and uncover the thrilling adventure that awaits you!
Essential Extras
Fishing Licenses are required for fishing on local rivers.
- 1 Day Victorian Licence: $5.50
- 3 Day Victorian Licence: $12.00
- 1 Year Victorian Licence: $26.00
- 3 Year Victorian Licence: $66.00
Licences can be purchased online here.
Here at Goulburn Valley Fly Fishing, we value every guest’s unique experiences and needs. We understand that things can sometimes change unexpectedly, and we have carefully designed our reservation and cancellation policy to consider this. Please read the policy thoroughly before finalising your booking. Special cancellation policies apply to our specialty trips to New Zealand and the USA, which are outlined below.
We recommend considering appropriate travel insurance for our trips to New Zealand, the USA (Montana-Idaho), and Argentina (Patagonia) for your peace of mind.
Local Guiding and Drift Boat Bookings
- Secure your booking with Visa/Master Card or EFT payment.
- $100 deposit required at the time of booking, with balance due at the beginning of the trip.
- Pay your balance in cash on the day of the trip to avail $50 discount per day.
Cancellation Policy In case of a cancellation:
- We’ll advertise your slot on our platforms in order to find a replacement.
- If a replacement is found, we can reschedule your booking or refund your deposit/payment in full.
- If no replacement is found, the balance of the trip price will be charged to your card on the day of the trip.
- No-shows or parties with less guests than booked, will be charged the full amount.
Fly Fishing Workshops
Due to heavily discounted rates, full payment is required at the time of booking.
Cancellation Policy In case of a cancellation:
- We’ll attempt to rebook your slot, provided other spots on the trip are filled.
- If we are able to rebook, your booking can be rescheduled without penalty.
- If the spot is not rebooked, your payment will be forfeited. No refunds will be issued.
New Zealand Trips
- 50% deposit required within three days of booking to secure your spot.
- Balance payment due by November 1st.
- Cancellations must be confirmed in writing.
Cancellation Policy In case of a cancellation:
- We’ll attempt to rebook your slot up until the day your trip begins.
- If we are able to rebook, a full refund will be issued.
- If we are unable to rebook, no refund will be given.
Montana/Idaho Trips
- 50% deposit at the time of booking, balance due by April 1.
- Full payment is required if booking after April 1.
Cancellation Policy In case of a cancellation:
- We’ll attempt to rebook your slot.
- If rebooked, payment will be refunded less a $250 AUD admin charge. This is only possible if all other spots are filled.
- If we are unable to rebook, you will forfeit your payment.
Cancellations are sometimes unavoidable, but please be aware we make no exceptions to our cancellation policy. However, we will do our best to find a replacement so we can offer a refund or reschedule the trip.
To book or for more info, call us on 03 5773 2513.
Further explanations can be found on our FAQ page.
Goulburn Valley Fly Fishing Team looks forward to providing you with an unforgettable experience!
**Note: We operate outdoors and do not offer rain checks or cancellations for poor weather. Weather in Melbourne may differ from that in Alexandra. If you have concerns, please reach out to us.
Our journey with you, since that first cast back in 1994, has been nothing short of inspiring. Together, we’ve navigated the rushing currents and reveled in the quiet of the streams. It’s in these moments, immersed in nature’s beauty with you, our loyal angler community, that our passion is reaffirmed. This shared love for fly fishing has created a ripple effect, bringing in a steady flow of referrals, helping us grow stronger with each season.
To say thanks and encourage this generous flow, we’re launching the Cast & Catch Referral Program. It’s as simple as casting a line: Refer us to your fellow enthusiasts, and when they book a trip, they’ll hook a fantastic discount off the listed price. And for your effort? We’re casting back some store credits your way, redeemable for flies, equipment, or even towards your next guided session or drift boat adventure.
| Service | Catch for Them | Cast for You |
|---|---|---|
| FULL DAY DRIFT BOAT FISHING | $50 | $50 |
| FULL DAY GUIDED FISHING | $50 | $50 |
| BEGINNER WORKSHOP | $50 | $50 |
| NEW ZEALAND TRIP | $100 | $100 |
| MONTANA TRIP | $100 | $100 |
With three years of navigating the rough waters of lost revenue, we are now asking for your support. As one of the rare tourism businesses to respect all pre-pandemic payments, we’re looking forward to setting our finances right. And you can help us keep our boat afloat. Pun intended.
If our fishing trips have left you with memorable stories, consider sharing us with the fishers in your life. Be it a beginner seeking to reel in knowledge, or a seasoned angler looking for new adventures like a drift boat trip, or even a thrilling journey to New Zealand or Montana, we are ready to offer them the experience you loved and reward you in return.
To participate in our Cast & Catch program, share the magic of our services with your friends, and have them: a/ give a shout out to your referral and b/ share your phone number with us at the time of booking. We’ll handle the rest.
24. Airport Pickups
We offer a free airport shuttle service for group bookings of our multiday trips including the Goulburn River Adventure and Autumn Escape. We can also collect individuals if required, but there will be a cost for time and fuel. For those looking to fly in and do a day or two of fishing, renting a car at the airport will be the best and most economical option.
25. Our Location
Navigate Your Way to The GVFFC Flyshop
Our esteemed flyshop is open for you most days, but we appreciate a heads-up before you arrive. This courtesy allows us to ensure that one of our seasoned team members will be available to assist you and give you the personalised experience you deserve.
Schedule Your Visit
Leveraging 28 years of managing a destination flyshop, we have learned to treasure quiet moments. We use these brief respites to inspect the river or perform a trailer shuttle. Your prior call or text will enable us to balance our commitments effectively. Reach out to us on 0418 995 611 to notify us of your planned visit. In response, we’ll text you a link to our precise location.
Finding Us: Directions for a Smooth Journey
Our Google Maps listing might lead you astray, guiding you to the wrong side of our property. To bypass this minor inconvenience, we encourage you to access precise directions to our shop from the link provided here.
For any queries or if you wish to secure a booking, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to warmly welcoming you on your next visit to the region.
26. Enquiries and Support: We’re Here to Help
For any further questions or advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us by email or phone. We’re committed to ensuring that your fly fishing adventure with us is a memorable one, from the moment you book until your last cast.
We hope this guide has been helpful in preparing you for your fly fishing adventure. Tight lines and happy fishing!
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