If you think of the Snowy Mountains as somewhere that slumbers through the summer, think again. In the warmer months, when the last of the skiers have melted away with the snow, the mountains are reborn as a playground for anglers, bushwalkers and adventure-seekers of all vintages.
While the mountains have always been popular with summer visitors, the streams, lakes and rivers of Kosciuszko National Park are becoming known for offering the best fly-fishing in Australia.
It is difficult to imagine a more magical place to spend a few hours - or days. The area cemented its reputation as a mecca for Australian anglers by hosting the world fly-fishing championships in 2000.
Fishing is available in the lakes all year round, but the trout rivers are only open from the October long weekend to June.
The National Park offers 16 man-made lakes and scores of alpine rivers and streams stocked with brown, rainbow and brook trout. The Thredbo River is now considered the best fly-fishing river in Australia.
Fly-fishing is the speciality summer sport here in the Snowies. Both Cooma (the self-styled 'Capital of the Snowy Mountains') and the ski village of Thredbo make ideal bases for the experienced fly-fisher or weekend angler.
Cooma is an ideal place to stock up on bait, lures and other tackle. Just 20 minutes away lie the headwaters of two of the region's best trout streams - the MacLaughlin and Bobundra rivers at Nimmitabel. Hire a local guide if you want to take on these waters.
For a different type of challenge, head off to the outlying town of Adaminaby. From here you can fish the huge expanse of Lake Eucumbene. Approximately nine times the size of Sydney Harbour, the lake is ideal for both boat and shore angling.
Higher up in the mountains lies Thredbo. To many people, this is the ultimate fishing venue. Not only does the village provide fantastic access to the Thredbo River but its wide selection of hotels, lodges and restaurants provide plenty of non-aquatic distractions.
Over recent years Thredbo has developed an exciting program of summer events, including now-famous blues and global music festivals. Why not combine your next fishing trip with a little bit of foot-stomping live music?
First-timers can hire rods and tackle from several professional guides in the area. The Thredbo-based Kosciuszko Fly Fishing Company offers a wide range of lessons, clinics and packages for fishers at every skill level - from beginners up to the experienced angler who wants to improve his or her technique.
If you really take your fishing seriously then consider taking one of the company's fly-tying courses. Instructor Wayne Dixon, a former Australian fly-tying champion with 20 years fly-fishing experience in the Snowies, is a respected exponent of this fine art.
According to Dixon there are plenty of fish to be had throughout the season, but the pre-Christmas period is often the best time to cast a line - especially following a good winter snowfall when there's plenty of cold water in the rivers.
With fly-fishing gaining in popularity, increasing numbers of women are taking up the sport. A number of guides now offer special introductory courses for women. The Kosciuszko Fly Fishing Company has all-inclusive weekend packages for female anglers - the price includes all equipment, tuition and accommodation.
Of course, once you've landed your quota of trout there's nothing to stop you trying out another water sport in the Snowies. How about whitewater rafting, kayaking or float tubing? After all, there is an adventure playground right on your doorstep.
The Eucumbene Trout Farm on Rocky Plains Road is a terrific day out. You can hire a rod and fish in their sure-catch pond - great fun for the kids. Buy fresh trout to take home or eat in the cafe.
Pip, Doyalson.
Cooma has the largest, cleanest public toilets I have ever seen. They are bright and open quite late - after 7pm at night too. Very handy to know if you are driving to or from the snow. There are several good cafes that were all crowded, noisy and cheerful when we stopped, so it's nice to know that you can get decent food. Try Sharp Food in Sharp Street.
Daisy, Eastwood.
If you want to go trout fishing without the hassle of bringing your own gear (especially if you're flying), you can rent or buy gear from numerous stores throughout the region. Alpine Angler in Cooma is one of the region's largest.
Laurie, Hobart.
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