Fly Fishing New Zealand - Nelson Lakes National Park

Flyfishing in New Zealand is fantastic!

The pristine beauty of the New Zealand landscape, the clarity of water in our rivers and the size of New Zealand's plump brown trout make trout fishing here an experience unlike any other in the world.

Generally in New Zealand fly fishing takes place on foot, walking the banks of the river with your guide searching for each individual fish.

You will probably be on the road by about 8:30 am and travel by 4WD vehicle to one of twenty five local rivers.

Alternatively, for the ultimate challenge, your personal wilderness flyfishing challenge can be arranged.

Travelling by helicopter in search of those elusive double figure browns that reside in the remote mountain rivers of New Zealand's South Island, beyond any access by road.

Here you will experience New Zealand's most beautiful terrain and fish rivers where the only footsteps will be your own.

Trout fishing in New Zealand is frequently the pinnacle of a fisher's experience.

The challenge encountered when stalking brown trout in New Zealand rivers which are typically gin clear, is ever present.

The end result however may be the realisation of a dream.


Landing a fish over ten pound is possible on any day!


When flyfishing in New Zealand, the amazing clarity of the water allows your fish to see you before you see it.

Therefore the most essential aspect of your gear is its ability to blend into your surroundings.

Bright coloured clothes will spook your fish, as will flouro coloured lines.

Bring with you dark, dull clothes - greens and browns are ideal.

New Zealand brown trout have a reputation for being very wary - wily fish are the ones that survive and grow to become those outstanding big browns.

Rods
• preferably 4 to 6 weight / 4 piece is easier to include with your luggage

Lines
• floating in dull colours

Leader
• 9 feet long / 1X or 2X

Reel
• any brand with good drag & 100m backing

Clothing
• dark or dull coloured including raincoat (brown, green or camouflage)

Wading gear
• light waders (gortex ideal) or wet wade with polypropylene longjohns & shorts (this is the best option in the warmer months of January & February) and felt soled wading boots with gravel guards.

Sunglasses
• polaroid

Additional essentials
• sunscreen, sun hat and insect repellent (for the occasional sandfly)

Fly Fishing New Zealand - Nelson Lakes National Park - Nelson Lakes National Park and environs located at the northern end of the South Island of New Zealand

An established guiding service (est.1990) with a dedicated fishing guide who is passionate about providing an exceptional fly fishing experience.

New Zealand Professional Fishing Guides Association registered.

Based adjacent to the Nelson Lakes National Park - a mountainous area of pristine beauty.

Guided fly fishing local rivers accessed either by 4WD vehicle or helicopter.

Wilderness overnight camp outs available - fishing remote rivers where New Zealand’s large wily brown trout reside.

Here the scenery is breathtaking and the fishing fantastic.

Local accommodation arranged by us to suit angler's request - from budget to luxury lodge. You may choose to stay at our small mountain lodge Kehu Lodge - adjacent to the Nelson Lakes National Park.

"Flyfishing in New Zealand is the romantic culmination of a fly fisherman's life. Dreams are there to come true. You must earn every success.You leave New Zealand a better person, more aware of the true values of your life. Tomorrow is today in New Zealand."

Fishing Season
1October through 30 April

Note: government tax (GST 12.5%) is included in this rate

Inclusive in rate
transport, lunch, tackle, flies