Few places in the world offer trout fishing quite like that found in New Zealand. It is genuinely extraordinary to see the size of fish that can inhabit relatively small streams, and in many fisheries, particularly in the South Island, the further you travel upstream, the larger the trout seem to become. This is technical, visual fishing where spotting the fish is only the beginning; the challenge lies in getting close enough to make the perfect presentation to a wary, often solitary trout.
New Zealand’s trout fishing is as much about the challenge and the environment as it is about the fish themselves. The fishing can feel more akin to saltwater flats fishing than traditional trout fishing, with anglers stalking individual fish, often covering considerable ground through rugged and remote terrain. Once a trout has been spotted, the question is simple: can you make the cast? A poor presentation is rarely forgiven.
Beyond the fishing, the spectacular scenery, friendly hospitality and sheer variety of landscapes make this an exceptionally memorable place to visit. Even for those who would not describe themselves as dedicated trout anglers, New Zealand offers far more than simply catching fish, with hiking, wildlife, adventure and the opportunity to explore one of the world’s most beautiful countries. It’s a wonderful destination for a fishing/non-fishing holiday with plenty to keep all parties entertained.
We can help tailor a trip around your fishing ambitions, whether that means concentrating on the South Island’s legendary backcountry brown trout, exploring the North Island’s productive rivers or combining several areas into a longer itinerary. We can also arrange trips for anglers travelling with non-fishing partners or families, ensuring there is plenty to experience away from the river. Local knowledge can make all the difference here and we are well placed to advise on all that is available in the land of the long white cloud.
Cedar Lodge’s remote location and backcountry heli-fishing programme offers anglers an incredible opportunity to explore this remarkable region. Non-fishers will find plenty of entertainment too with wine tours, golf, hiking and horse riding among the activities on offer.
From NZ$7,750 per person based on 7 nights / 6 days guided fishing
Owen River Lodge in the Nelson Lakes area of New Zealand’s South Island is a boutique 5* fishing lodge in a region renowned as a “sighted” brown trout fishery. The lodge has an endless supply of non-fishing activities including mountain biking, farm tours, rafting, and golf.
The lodge is taken on an exclusive basis.
This gorgeous luxury lodge sits in magnificent countryside in the heart of central Otago. Among the many activities to enjoy in this part of the world are hiking, golf, fishing and sampling multi-award winning wines. The charming town of Wanaka is just 20 minutes away, with Queenstown a scenic hour and a half drive from Mahu Whenua.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is the epitome of comfort and luxurious accommodation in the wilds of the Southern Alps. Only accessible by helicopter, the lodge treats guests, both those staying at the luxury lodge as well as those enjoying one of its many Alpine adventures, to an authentic New Zealand Alps experience.
Poronui Ranch is a luxury fly fishing lodge nestled in the Taharua valley in New Zealand’s spectacular North Island, offering guests exclusive access to trophy trout in privately owned and managed waters. The operation is a wonderful outdoor playground offering a range of excellent facilities for hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, shooting and rafting.
Stonefly Lodge is situated on 150 acres of private forest just 50 minutes from Nelson. It offers the complete package to visitors from around the world looking to experience fly fishing and to explore Abel Tasman and the surrounding landscape of the region.
Situated in the middle of New Zealand’s North Island, Tongariro Lodge is perfectly placed to target many of the island’s great rainbow and brown trout rivers and lakes. Alongside fishing is a wealth of outdoor activities including some superb hiking routes.