Trout Fishing in NZ is unreal! From bush-lined boulder ridden streams to sweeping rivers winding across wide tussock covered glacial valleys--if the water looks like it might hold fish, it probably does, and unless it is a big name river, they probably get very little pressure. Though there are far fewer fish per mile compared to North America which often means a lot of walking but it's well worth the effort. The average size of fish more than makes up for the extra leg-work, it is hard to catch fish under 16 inches and most are in the 18-20 class. The biggest fish only occupy the best looking lies and often won't move far to take a fly--with the exception of a few rivers with denser populations blind casting is not productive. The game is walking and spotting as you work your way upstream. Most fish spotted are up and feeding, and will usually take a well placed buggy pattern, but casting to them from downstream in gin-clear water necessitates very long leaders, 15 feet plus. Since you're on an island wind can be a real bitch (especially with these leaders) and without some sun sight fishing is nearly impossible. Rain is common even during the summer, particularly on the west coast. Downpours raise rivers but the lack of topsoil to retain moisture means they drop and clear quickly. Weather is a big driver of good fishing and much to my dismay was less than cooperative a number of times during our journey-- but there is more to fishing than catching. We spent a lot of time on gorgeous waters and connected with some very memorable fish, but still barely scratched the surface of what NZ has to offer... 
 Pool of perfection--the riffles and runs in between are a waste of time, the big trout occupy these prime lies. Manuka Beetle--one of the most common terrestrials in early summer
Buller River--looks like Montana
Angler step-over to cross fence and private paddock to river--access points like this are very common and well marked all over the country  |
| Ruakituri River- North Island |
Dry fly fishing only is a myth--nymphs are often far more effective
Maori warrior haka pose |
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| Dinner |
Toad
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| Eglinton River--South Island |
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| Beetle Eater |
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| Fly tying over coffee--not a bad way to start the day |
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| Angling the hydro-electric canal |
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| Happy Dad with a chromy bow |
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| Stalkin' cruisers |
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| In the shadow of the Southern Alps |
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| Biggest trout of my life--around 28 inches YEEEEE!!! |
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| D'ruville River-- the far bank is home of that big trout above |
Leopard Brown--25 inches
Tiny beauty from a high-mountain stream
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