Daniel Hackett — Tasmania Highland Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Guide — Tasmania
About
Daniel Hackett is a Tasmanian fly fishing guide who has spent twenty years perfecting the art of sight-fishing for wild brown trout in the glacial lakes and tannin-stained rivers of Tasmania's Central Highlands. Born in Launceston, Daniel first encountered the Western Lakes as a teenager on a camping trip with his father, and the experience of spotting a large brown trout cruising through crystal-clear water over a pale sand bottom fundamentally altered the trajectory of his life. He abandoned his plans for university, apprenticed with a veteran guide, and has been stalking Tasmanian trout professionally ever since.
Tasmania's Western Lakes fishing is a unique discipline that demands exceptional eyesight, stealth, and casting accuracy. Daniel's approach involves driving or hiking to a series of highland lakes each day, scanning the shorelines and shallows with polarized glasses for feeding or cruising trout, then coaching his client through a single-cast opportunity that may not repeat if the fish is spooked. The challenge is immense, but the reward — landing a wild brown trout of three, four, or even five pounds in a pristine alpine setting that feels like the end of the Earth — makes every failed attempt worthwhile.
Daniel also guides on the mainland rivers of northern Tasmania for resident brown and rainbow trout, and on the highland streams during the summer months when terrestrial insects draw trout to the surface. He holds a Tasmanian inland fisheries guiding license and is active in local conservation efforts to protect the highland lake ecosystems from invasive species.
Specialties
Sight fishing for wild brownsPolaroiding techniqueHighland lake specialistTerrestrial dry fly fishing4WD and hiking accessTasmanian river fishingWilderness navigation
5.0/5 on Google(87 reviews)
What Anglers Say
“My dad and I spent five incredible days fly fishing in Tasmania, and it was truly a trip of a lifetime. Scott, the owner and lead guide, made us feel at home from the very beginning. He took care of every detail — from driving arrangements to accommodation — ensuring everything was perfectly organised so we could focus entirely on the experience. We fished a variety of waters, from rivers to alpine lakes, and enjoyed some fantastic catches. The learning curve was amazing as well: Scott dedicated so much time and energy to helping us improve our skills while making sure we had fun throughout. Scott wasn’t alone — the other guides, Jaydon, Peter, and Peter (yes, two Peters!) shared the same passion, professionalism, and enthusiasm. Their collective knowledge and support made the entire journey unforgettable. I highly recommend Tasmania Fly Fishing to anyone looking for a high-quality, personalised fly fishing experience. Scott and his team will make sure you have the best possible time on the water and you will catch some trouts, guaranteed! Francesco & Filippo”
Francesco p.
“I am new to fly fishing and my casting definitely wasn’t perfect, but Scott was incredibly patient and clear with his guidance — he made everything feel relaxed and enjoyable. He took us to a beautiful river spot, and managed to land four trout! It was the perfect mix of learning, improving, and actually catching fish. I can't recommend Scott more highly, thank you!”
Jamie p.
“A fantastic day’s guided fishing day on the South Esk with Scott. Expert local knowledge of the river got me to the places holding fish and I had plenty of action, catching five beautiful browns on a mixture of dries and nymphs. Lost another fish close to the net and missed six or seven other takes. Scott provided excellent tuition, teaching me tactics for covering the river and also advice on improving my casting technique. Some nail biting sight fishing produced the best brown of the day on my last cast as we finished a great session. Highly recommended!”
A r.
Quick Facts
- Location
- Tasmania
- Experience
- 20+ years
- Daily Rate
- $650 AUD/day (1-2 anglers)
- Specialties
- Sight fishing for wild browns, Polaroiding technique, Highland lake specialist, Terrestrial dry fly fishing, 4WD and hiking access, Tasmanian river fishing, Wilderness navigation
Book a Trip
Contact Daniel Hackett — Tasmania Highland Fly Fishing directly to book your guided trip.