As the leaves begin to turn and the water temperatures drop, trout fishing in Australia enters one of its most exciting seasons—autumn. With cooler waters and trout feeding aggressively before winter, choosing the right flies can make all the difference. Here are the top five trout flies you should have in your box this autumn.

1. Bead Head Woolly Bugger (Olive & Black)

The Woolly Bugger is a year-round classic, but it shines in autumn as trout become more opportunistic. Olive and black variations mimic baitfish and aquatic insects, making them irresistible in both lakes and rivers. Fish them with a slow retrieve or a strip-pause motion to trigger aggressive strikes.

2. Pheasant Tail Nymph (Flashback or Unweighted)

As trout bulk up for winter, they target nymphs drifting in the current. The Pheasant Tail Nymph is a staple for imitating mayfly nymphs, which are abundant in autumn. Use it under a dry fly or as part of a nymphing rig for best results.

3. Elk Hair Caddis (Tan or Brown)

On warm autumn afternoons, caddis hatches bring trout to the surface. The Elk Hair Caddis is a perfect dry fly for these situations. Cast it near overhanging vegetation or riffles and watch for aggressive rises.

4. Red Tag

This Australian favorite has been fooling trout for generations. Its bright red tail and buggy body make it a fantastic all-rounder in autumn. It works well as both a dry fly and a dropper above a nymph.

5. Glo Bug (Egg Fly)

With spawning trout in many Australian rivers, an egg imitation like the Glo Bug can be incredibly effective. Trout instinctively grab drifting eggs, making this fly a must-have for autumn fishing, especially in waters where spawning occurs.

Bonus Tip: Match the Hatch!

While these five flies are autumn go-tos, always observe the water. Look for rising fish, insect activity, or baitfish schools to choose the best fly for the moment.

Are you stocked up for the season? Check out our https://www.troutflies.com.au/fly-collections.html to grab these autumn essentials!