Redfin Perch, an invasive species from Europe litter Western Australia's freshwater systems. They are possibly one of the most underrated cold-water sports fish in Australia, as they hit hard, the larger adults put up a good fight, and they taste quite good if you decide to reduce the population, as encouraged by Recfish. They love cover, so find the structure. They will form large schools and will often be found patrolling together, particularly in large still waters.
Outfit
Fishing light allows for a sporty fight, anything from 3-6 weight fly outfit being a suitable choice. Be aware that you will need a bit of muscle if fishing around structure, their first run can be powerful! Full floating lines are generally used, but if you find yourself hunting them in deeper waters, a sink tip or full intermediate can help.
Leader and Tippet
A 9' leader tapering down to about a 3X (8lb) tippet will get the fish in and allow for a good fight. You may want to go shorter in skinny waters or areas with overgrown banks, and potentially a lighter leader and tippet with smaller flies if you're in gin clear, shallower water.
Flies
Redfin are aggressive, opportunistic carnivores and as such they're diet is varied. They favour small fish and in particular crayfish and yabbies. Simple and effective flies include a Woolly Bugger, Nearnuff Crawfish, or a Disco Shrimp for some top water action.
Strategy
Redfin can thrive in a broad range of freshwater habitats, so you will need to be flexible with your tactics. Start where there is structure using weighted flies that will get down fairly fast but avoid getting snagged.
In deeper, open water, getting the fly down is your main objective as redfin will rarely be found high in the water column. For this approach, intermediate/sinking fly line with weighted flies is your best bet.
Occasionally, redfin will feed of the surface, particularly in low light. It pays to carry some surface flies or poppers with you in your fly box.
Good luck out there and be sure to send us some pictures if this article was helpful in your captures!