The Illawarra Fly Fishers Club is a sports club located in Wollongong, Australia. Founded on July 5th, 1989, and incorporated on January 6th, 1993, the club aims to enhance the members' enjoyment of the sport of fly-fishing by providing opportunities to increase their knowledge and skills while preserving the environment associated with fly-fishing.
The club holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of each month, except for January. These meetings take place at Collegians RLFC on Charlotte St, starting at 7:30 pm. The meetings typically include a brief business session followed by guest speakers who discuss various topics such as tackle, stream craft, techniques, and fishing adventures. There is also a fly of the month competition and raffle held at each meeting.
Both members and visitors can attend these meetings free of charge.
One of the highlights of the club is the biggest fish competition, which runs from the Annual General Meeting in August to the following August. Only fish caught on fly in public waters within New South Wales are eligible, and winners are determined by measuring fish from the nose to the tip of the tail.
To become a member, there is a one-time $2 administration fee payable upon joining. The annual membership fee is $10 for pensioners, holders of disability cards, children under 16, and non-resident members living more than 50 kilometres away from Wollongong. For all other members, the cost is $25 per year. The membership year runs from the first Tuesday in August at midnight and lasts for one year.
If joining after the first Tuesday in February, half fees may be charged.
The club also organises monthly fly casting workshops on the Sunday following the monthly meeting, except for December and January. These workshops take place at Towradgi Beach Park and start at 10:00 am, lasting until around noon. They offer a great opportunity for both members and visitors to improve their casting skills, meet others with similar interests, and try out different rods, reels, and lines. A casting competition is also held during these workshops.
Additionally, the Illawarra Fly Fishers Club has a club library where members can access a range of resources related to fly-fishing and fly tying. This library provides valuable information and materials to further enhance members' knowledge and skills in the sport.
Overall, the Illawarra Fly Fishers Club offers a welcoming environment for fly-fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. With regular meetings, workshops, and competitions, the club provides a platform for members to learn, share, and enjoy their passion for fly-fishing while fostering the preservation of the environment.