The Way I See It: Fly Fishing These South Island Waters

You know what really gets me? That moment just before dawn when the mist's still clinging to the river like a shy lover, and you can already hear the trout rising. Been guiding these waters near Glendeer for... oh, must be twelve seasons now? Lost count after that record rainbow in '19.

Now here's the thing about our trout - those browns are clever buggers, proper ninjas in the current. And the rainbows? Absolute rockets when they take off. Last season I watched a beginner land a 6-pounder on his third cast, hands shaking like a leaf in nor'wester

The Water & The Fish (Which Really Means Everything)

That crisp alpine air that smells like snowmelt and manuka - gets in your bones, eh? We're talking rivers so clear you'll swear they're magnifying glasses, streams where you can spot trout from 20 meters if the light's right. Might be wrong but I reckon our headwaters grow the most educated fish in the country.

Speaking of rainbows, reminds me of this crazy sunset we saw up near the backcountry hut last March - sky turned the color of a ripe peach, and the fish went mad for cicada patterns. Which brings me to...

Flies That Actually Work (Most Days)

We'll match whatever's hatching - dry flies that sit just so, spider imitations that dance like they've had one too many, those juicy terrestrials when the wind's right. Had a client last week swear by size #16 parachute Adams, but honestly? Sometimes the fish want something ugly and obvious. Bloody divas

Trips For Every Sort Of Angle

Day trips? Sure - we'll have you spotting fish by lunchtime. But the real magic happens when you stay out overnight. Got these backcountry huts where the only sounds are the river and the occasional morepork. Luxury lodges too if that's your style (no judgement - hot showers are bloody brilliant).

Pro tip: Book at least three days if you can. Takes that long for the city to drain out of your shoulders, know what I mean。

Why Our Fish Are Different
Not just saying this because it's my backyard, but NZ trout are... well, they're athletes. Wild as the hills, fat on mayflies and cunning as old boots. That first proper tug on your line? Feels like someone's snatched your wallet and is making a run for it。

The Guiding Bit
We're not just permit holders - we're proper fish nerds. Certified, yeah yeah, but more importantly we know which boulder that big brown lurks behind after rain. Seen too many flashy guides burn clients out by noon. Our way? Slow like the deep pools, with plenty of time to just... be.

Heard a client say once "It's not fishing, it's water therapy with occasional screaming reels." Reckon that sums it up nicely.
So come chase these liquid ghosts with us. Bring your sense of wonder, leave your fancy gear anxiety at home (we've got spares). Just don't blame me when you start dreaming in fly patterns... happens to the best of us.