Nelson Brown Trout

The Nelson region is world-renowned as a superb own trout fishery, and quite rightly so. The rivers are clear, flowing through native bush and, in them, large own trout with honey-golden flanks and spots on their sides as big as your thumbnail.

But these are not easy targets. They can be selective, always wary and, when hooked, dirty fighters, heading for rocks, logs, and anything else to aid their escape.

But they can rise freely to a dry, take a nymph with enthusiasm and smash a cicada.

If you want to take up the challenge of hooking into a Nelson brown trout, I can help make that dream a reality.

I provide top quality guiding service with 4WD vehicle or arrange helicopter fly-ins to remote headwaters.

As well as day trips, I offer camp-outs, staying in forest huts and multi-day fishing trips. This keeps you right on the water and maximises the time available for fishing.

Testimonials:

Peter, this picture is now on my office wall (it IS!!) so I can dream of the large trout you put me on to quietly sipping flies off the surface. I never imagined my heart would race each time I recall the thrill of fishing to these magnificent specimens. I'll be back! - Tight lines, Victor Antonie

During a recent trip to New Zealand, I had the opportunity to spend several days fly fishing with Peter..

Peter eagerly shares his top fishing waters, fly fishing knowledge and techniques. He has a keen eye for fish spotting and a vest full of fly angling tips. But equally important as his considerable fishing skills, Peter is a great person to spend time with on the water. His calm and pleasant demeanor would make even the most novice angler feel at ease. Peter and his wife, Alison, are gracious hosts, providing first class accommodations in a beautiful rural setting. - Dan Busch

I thoroughly enjoyed discovering New Zealand's fabled trout waters with experienced NZ professional guide Peter Warren. The tramp back into a splendid river valley was highlighted by the successful CPR(catch, photo, release) of a illiant 6lb South Island Brown. I benefited from Peter's expertise and achieved my goal of spotting and fishing to trout in the crystal NZ water. Can't wait to do it again! Mark Beatty, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Nelson Brown Trout -
What To Bring...

RODS: 5 - 6 weight, 8 1/2 - 9 feet are the most suitable. Rarely is there the need to cast further than 12 - 15 yards, but accuracy and a delicate presentation are very important. These are browns in clear water.

LINES: To match your 5 - 6 weight rod. Double taper or weight forward floating line. They must be dull colors - olive, brown, or grey.

REELS: A smooth drag is important, as is 100 yards of backing. Sometimes these fish just don't want to hang around!

WADERS: Light weight waders are fine. From November to March I prefer to wade wet, wearing polypropylene tights, shorts and gravel guards. No great fashion statement, but I haven't heard a fish laugh yet! This helps to keep cool and aids mobility. Felt-soled boots are a must.

FLIES: Please bring your dries and nymphs. A lot of the patterns work worldwide, but if not, I have plenty to suit the local conditions.

CLOTHING: Early and late season the air temperature is around 15 -20 C (60 -70 F) and during January and Feuary is 20 - 30 C (70 - 85 F). It is always better to take off thin layers than being caught with a heavy layer. Raincoats are always needed on any holiday, so they'll be packed anyway. It's important to keep your clothes a subdued color - including your hat.

CAMPOUT: Bring your pack and sleeping bag if you intend to take this option. I can supply them if required. I also have everything else needed for campouts. Please note tramping and fishing does require a higher degree of fitness. It can be more demanding - but rewarding.

EXTRAS: Fishing glasses - pack them before your rod and reel! Wide-rimmed hat, sun screen and your camera.

If you are travelling light or just trying fly fishing for the first time, I have a full range of quality gear available.

When guiding I do not fish, but I do carry a rod as a spare - just in case the unthinkable happens.

We aim to provide as much company or privacy as you require.

Individual attention, peaceful surroundings, and the fact that Peter, your fly fishing guide is never far away, all combine to make your stay at the Lodge a truly unique holiday experience. You'll really appreciate our secluded hillside setting as you unwind after an exciting day fly fishing on the local rivers - actually, you'll love our surroundings even if you've been flat-out doing absolutely nothing but relaxing around the Lodge.

A short stroll from our Homestead takes you to a private and luxurious Guest Lodge which offers all facilities for your every comfort. In summer, you’ll enjoy our swimming pool, just a few steps from the Lodge.

The Lodge features contemporary styling with a warm timber interior. Two double bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms with lovely rural views.

Please submit a booking request above to check on available dates.

Book Now - "What the guide charges, is what you will pay and nothing extra. No middleman fees ~ book direct or contact the guide today!"
John Openshaw ~ President, WadersOn.com

Rates are per day (one or two fisherman)

This includes transport, lunch and flies. Campouts are NZ$100 per night each. Fishing licence and gear hire is additional to my rates.