You ever had one of those days where the river just clicks? Where the light’s golden, the trout are rising like they’ve got a vendetta against your fly, and you forget about everything else? That’s the kind of day I live for—and the kind I want to share with you down here in Southland and Otago.

I’m Mike. Been guiding these waters for 25 years now, but honestly, it still feels like that first time I hooked a trout at ten years old—scared me half to death, but man, I was addicted. Started with eels on hand-lines (don’t ask), then worked my way up to chasing browns from here to Canada. But something about these rivers—the way the mist hangs at dawn, the way a big brown slams a mouse pattern in the dark—it never gets old.

Speaking of big browns… ever tried night fishing? There’s nothing like it. You’re out there under the stars, listening for that glug of a rise, casting into the black with a mouse pattern (season depending, of course). That’s when the real monsters show up. Had a client last year who swore he’d never scream over a fish—until a six-pounder nearly yanked him into the lake. Good times.

But hey, maybe you’re just starting out. No shame in that. I love teaching—whether it’s untangling your leader (we’ve all been there) or figuring out why the fish are ignoring your perfectly tied fly. (Spoiler: trout are jerks sometimes.) And yeah, I’m certified with Search and Rescue and all that—mum’s requirement—but really, we’re just here to have fun.
Oh, and I’m with the NZ Professional Fishing Guides Association. Mostly so I can argue about fly patterns with other guides over a beer.

So if you’re up for it—drop me a line. Even if you just want to debate whether olive or black streamers work better after dark. (Spoiler #2: I’m right.)
Species we chase: Brown trout, rainbow trout (but let’s be honest—you’re here for the browns).
Night fishing? Hell yes.
Tuition? Bring your patience and a sense of humor.