New Zealand is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering a vast array of breathtaking locations to cast your line and reel in the catch of a lifetime. From the rugged rivers through the mountainous backdrops of the South Island to the serene lakes and streams of the North Island, this captivating country has something for every angler. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, New Zealand’s renowned rivers such as the Tongariro, Mataura, and Rangitikei are sure to provide an unforgettable fly fishing experience. So grab your gear, soak in the picturesque landscapes, and get ready to embark on an angling adventure in the land of the long white cloud.
North Island
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is one of the most renowned fly fishing destinations in New Zealand. Located in the central North Island, this expansive lake offers a fantastic range of fishing opportunities. The lake is home to an abundance of trout, particularly rainbow and brown trout. Whether you prefer fishing from the shore, a boat, or from a fishing charter, Lake Taupo provides ample opportunities to hook into some impressive fish. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery make this location a favorite among anglers from around the world.
Tongariro River
The Tongariro River, located near Lake Taupo, is widely regarded as one of the best fly fishing rivers in New Zealand. This majestic river flows through beautiful scenery and offers anglers the chance to catch some incredible trout. The river is synonymous with its brown and rainbow trout population, providing an exciting challenge for both experienced and novice fishermen. The Tongariro River is also famous for its annual spawning runs, where large numbers of trout migrate upstream to lay their eggs.
Martins Bay
Martins Bay, situated in the far north of the North Island, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. This remote and stunning location is known for its crystal-clear waters and the abundance of fish species, including kingfish, snapper, and trevally. The unique combination of coastal and freshwater fishing opportunities makes Martins Bay a must-visit destination for any angler. Whether you are interested in casting your line from the beach or exploring the nearby estuaries, Martins Bay offers a wide range of fishing experiences.
New Zealand’s Spring Creeks
New Zealand’s Spring Creeks are internationally recognized as some of the finest trout fishing locations in the world. These pristine spring-fed streams, found throughout the North Island, are renowned for their clarity and the size and quantity of their trout. The sheer beauty of these creeks, combined with the challenging fishing conditions, makes for an unforgettable fly fishing experience. With each creek having its own unique character, anglers can spend days exploring and discovering the wonders of these natural fishing havens.
South Island
Queenstown
Queenstown, nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, offers an unbeatable blend of stunning landscapes and exceptional fly fishing opportunities. This adventure capital of New Zealand is surrounded by rivers, lakes, and streams teeming with trout. The world-famous waters such as the Shotover and Kawarau rivers provide anglers with incredible fishing experiences, while the nearby mountain lakes boast some of the largest brown trout in the country. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler, Queenstown has something to offer everyone.
Rakaia River
The Rakaia River, located in Canterbury, is a mecca for fly fishing enthusiasts. This expansive river presents anglers with miles of fishing opportunities, including both the upper and lower sections. The Rakaia is renowned for its large chinook (king) salmon runs, which attract anglers from far and wide. Whether you are targeting salmon or trout, the Rakaia River offers a diverse range of fishing experiences, from wading the shallow braided sections to fishing from a drift boat in the deeper pools.
Murchison
Murchison, situated on the South Island’s West Coast, is a hidden paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by a network of rivers and streams, including the Buller and Matiri rivers, which are famous for their large brown trout. These rivers offer a mix of challenging and rewarding fishing experiences, with varying water conditions and diverse fish populations. Whether you prefer river fishing or exploring the nearby backcountry rivers, Murchison has something to offer all fly fishing enthusiasts.
Lake Brunner
Lake Brunner, located on the West Coast, is the second-largest lake in the region and is known for its exceptional fly fishing opportunities. The lake is home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and salmon, providing anglers with an array of fishing options. Whether you choose to fish from a boat or the shoreline, Lake Brunner offers ample opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish. The picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere further enhance the overall fly fishing experience at this stunning location.
Nelson Lakes National Park
Nelson Lakes National Park, situated in the upper South Island, encompasses two beautiful glacial lakes – Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti. These lakes are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and thriving trout populations. The park offers a range of fishing experiences, from fishing from the shoreline to venturing out onto the lakes in a boat or kayak. The stunning alpine scenery surrounding the lakes makes Nelson Lakes National Park a popular fly fishing destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Fiordland
Eglinton Valley
The Eglinton Valley, located in the heart of Fiordland National Park, is a picturesque destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. With its stunning vistas, mirror-like gin-clear waters, and abundant brown trout, this valley is a true angler’s paradise. Anglers can explore the Eglinton River and its tributaries, where they can target large trout lurking amongst the boulders and undercut banks. The sense of tranquility and seclusion that the Eglinton Valley offers makes it a must-visit spot for any keen fly fisher.
Waikaia River
The Waikaia River, located in Southland, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking solitude and stunning scenery. This remote river is known for its large brown trout, making it a sought-after destination for experienced anglers. The Waikaia is a relatively small river, making it perfect for wading and exploring its numerous pools and riffles. The peaceful surroundings and the challenge of hooking into a trophy-sized trout make the Waikaia River an unforgettable fly fishing experience.
Hollyford River
The Hollyford River, flowing through the rugged and remote landscapes of Fiordland National Park, offers a unique and rewarding fly fishing experience. This pristine river is renowned for its large brown trout population, which have thrived in this untouched wilderness. The Hollyford River is accessible by helicopter or a long hike, adding to the sense of adventure and exclusivity. The opportunity to fish in such a remote and untouched environment is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every angler should consider.
Milford Sound
Milford Sound, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, is not only a popular tourist destination but also offers excellent fly fishing opportunities. The deep waters and rugged coastline of Milford Sound are home to a variety of fish species, including blue cod and rock lobster. Anglers can cast their lines from a boat or the shore, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The combination of world-class fishing and spectacular scenery makes fly fishing in Milford Sound an unforgettable experience.
Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island, is a fly fishing paradise surrounded by Fiordland’s majestic landscapes. The lake is home to an abundance of brown and rainbow trout, making it a prime destination for anglers. Whether you choose to fish from a boat or the shore, Lake Te Anau offers a range of fishing experiences. The serenity and tranquility of this pristine lake, coupled with the chance to hook into some impressive trout, create a truly memorable fly fishing experience.
West Coast
Mahinapua
Mahinapua, located south of Hokitika on the West Coast, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque lake is known for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and healthy trout population. Anglers can fish from the shore, wade into the lake, or take a boat out to explore its hidden spots. The tranquil surroundings and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized trout make Mahinapua a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Haast River
The Haast River, flowing through the remote wilderness of the West Coast, is a renowned fly fishing location. This untamed river is home to large populations of brown and rainbow trout, making it a sought-after destination for anglers looking for a challenge. The Haast River offers a variety of fishing experiences, from wading its rapids and pools to exploring its meandering channels by boat. The raw beauty and untouched nature of the Haast River make it an unforgettable fly fishing destination.
Bruce Bay
Bruce Bay, situated on the West Coast between Haast and Fox Glacier, is an idyllic fly fishing destination. This pristine beach offers the unique opportunity to catch sea-run brown trout, providing anglers with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience. The mix of freshwater and saltwater fishing makes Bruce Bay a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts. Casting your line from the beach as the waves crash, surrounded by the striking scenery, creates an incredibly immersive and memorable fishing adventure.
Fox Glacier
Fly fishing near Fox Glacier is a truly remarkable experience. The glacier-fed rivers and streams offer excellent trout fishing opportunities. The Fox River, in particular, is known for its large brown trout. Anglers can enjoy wading through the river’s unique braided sections, casting their lines into the clear waters in search of the prized trophy trout. The breathtaking views of the Fox Glacier and the surrounding mountain range further enhance the allure of fly fishing in this pristine location.
Okarito Lagoon
Okarito Lagoon, located near Franz Josef Glacier, is a hidden paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. This expansive lagoon is abundant with fish, including brown trout, flounder, and kahawai. Whether you prefer fishing from a kayak or exploring the lagoon by boat, Okarito offers a range of fishing experiences. The quiet solitude and pristine environment make Okarito Lagoon a perfect escape for fly fishing enthusiasts looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Canterbury
Rangitata River
The Rangitata River, located in Canterbury, is a legendary fly fishing destination known for its excellent salmon fishing opportunities. Anglers can enjoy drifting downstream in search of trophy chinook (king) salmon. The Rangitata River offers a mix of challenging rapids and deep pools, providing a thrilling fishing adventure for seasoned anglers. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or from a drift boat, the Rangitata River promises an unforgettable fly fishing experience.
Waimakariri River
The Waimakariri River, flowing through the Canterbury region, is a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts. This braided river is renowned for its large brown trout population, guaranteeing an exciting and rewarding fishing experience. The Waimakariri River offers a range of fishing opportunities, from wading in its shallow braids to exploring the deep pools teeming with fish. The stunning scenery, with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, adds to the overall appeal of fishing the Waimakariri River.
Ashburton Lakes
The Ashburton Lakes, consisting of a group of lakes in the Canterbury region, provide a tranquil and picturesque fly fishing experience. These remote lakes, including Lake Heron and Lake Emma, are home to an abundance of trout, making them an angler’s paradise. Whether you prefer lake fishing from the shore or venturing out onto the water in a boat, the Ashburton Lakes offer a range of fishing options. The peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized fish make this location a must-visit for fly fishing enthusiasts.
Lake Coleridge
Lake Coleridge, nestled in the heart of Canterbury, is a popular fly fishing destination known for its large brown and rainbow trout. Anglers can fish from the shore or explore the lake by boat, enjoying the serene surroundings and the chance to hook into some impressive fish. The high-quality fishing experience, combined with the dramatic mountain scenery, makes Lake Coleridge a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Marlborough
Wairau River
The Wairau River, located in Marlborough, offers a rewarding fly fishing experience surrounded by beautiful vineyards and rolling hills. This river is known for its large brown trout, drawing anglers from near and far. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or wade into its clear waters, the Wairau River provides ample opportunities to hook into some impressive fish. The peaceful surroundings and the chance to sample Marlborough’s renowned wines add an extra layer of enjoyment to the fly fishing experience.
Seymour River
The Seymour River, flowing through the scenic landscapes of Marlborough, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. This pristine river is home to both brown and rainbow trout, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The Seymour River offers a mix of challenging and rewarding fishing experiences, with its fast-flowing sections and deep pools teeming with fish. The stunning scenery and the sense of seclusion make the Seymour River a must-visit destination for any avid fly fisher.
Pelorus River
The Pelorus River, famous for its role in “The Hobbit” movie trilogy, is not only a stunning natural attraction but also a fantastic fly fishing destination. This crystal-clear river is home to a healthy population of brown trout, making it an exciting and rewarding place to cast your line. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or wade into the water, the Pelorus River provides anglers with a truly memorable fly fishing experience in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque settings.
Awatere River
The Awatere River, located in the Marlborough region, is a relatively unknown fly fishing destination that promises a rewarding experience. The river flows through the breathtaking Awatere Valley, surrounded by dramatic mountains and vineyards. The Awatere River is inhabited by brown and rainbow trout, offering anglers a mix of fishing experiences, from wading in the shallow pools to casting from the riverbanks. The peace and serenity of the Awatere River make it a hidden gem worth exploring for any fly fishing enthusiast.
Northland
Kaipara River
The Kaipara River, flowing through the stunning landscapes of Northland, offers excellent fly fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. This picturesque river is home to a range of fish species, including brown trout, snapper, and kahawai. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or explore the estuaries and the nearby coastline, the Kaipara River provides a diverse range of fishing experiences. The unique combination of freshwater and saltwater fishing makes this location a must-visit for any angler visiting Northland.
Ngunguru River
The Ngunguru River, situated in Northland’s picturesque Tutukaka Coast, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. This peaceful river is known for its healthy population of brown and rainbow trout, attracting anglers looking for a challenging and rewarding fishing experience. The Ngunguru River offers a mix of conditions, with both fast-flowing and slow-water sections, providing a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The stunning coastal setting and the abundance of marine life further add to the allure of fly fishing in the Ngunguru River.
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands, located in the northernmost part of New Zealand, is not only a popular tourist destination but also offers incredible fly fishing opportunities. Anglers can explore the countless bays, inlets, and islands in search of a variety of fish species, including kingfish, snapper, and trevally. The combination of stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to catch some impressive fish makes the Bay of Islands a top choice for fly fishing enthusiasts. Whether you choose to fish from a boat or the shoreline, the rich fishing grounds of the Bay of Islands will not disappoint.
Cavalli Islands
The Cavalli Islands, a group of picturesque islands off the Northland coast, provide an idyllic fly fishing experience. This marine reserve is teeming with fish, including snapper, kingfish, and trevally, offering anglers the chance to catch some impressive specimens. The crystal-clear waters and the diverse range of fish species make the Cavalli Islands a favorite among both recreational and experienced fly fishermen. Casting your line from the boat surrounded by the stunning scenery and abundant marine life creates an unforgettable fly fishing adventure.
Central Otago
Arrowtown
Arrowtown, located in the heart of Central Otago, is not only known for its rich history but also offers excellent fly fishing opportunities. The nearby Arrow River, with its clear waters and brown trout population, provides anglers with an exciting and rewarding fishing experience. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or wade into the water, Arrowtown promises a serene and picturesque setting for fly fishing. The charming town, surrounded by breathtaking mountains, further adds to the overall appeal of this fly fishing destination.
Clutha River
The Clutha River, New Zealand’s second-longest river, is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. Flowing through the stunning landscapes of Central Otago, this powerful river is home to large populations of both brown and rainbow trout. The Clutha River offers a mix of fishing experiences, from wading in its fast-flowing sections to fishing from a boat in the deeper pools. The sheer size and beauty of this river, combined with the abundance of fish, make the Clutha River a must-visit location for any fly fishing enthusiast.
Lake Dunstan
Lake Dunstan, located in the heart of Central Otago, is a fly fisher’s paradise surrounded by beautiful vineyards and rugged mountains. This pristine lake is known for its large brown and rainbow trout, providing anglers with ample opportunities to hook into some impressive fish. Whether you choose to fish from a boat or cast your line from the shore, Lake Dunstan offers a varied and rewarding fishing experience. The tranquil surroundings and the possibility of catching trophy-sized fish make fly fishing in Lake Dunstan an unforgettable adventure.
Manuherikia River
The Manuherikia River, winding its way through the stunning landscapes of Central Otago, offers anglers a unique and rewarding fly fishing experience. This beautiful river is home to both brown and rainbow trout, providing fly fishermen with a diverse range of fishing opportunities. The Manuherikia River offers a mix of fast-flowing rapids and calm runs, making for an exciting and challenging fishing adventure. Surrounded by the dramatic Central Otago scenery, fishing in the Manuherikia River is a truly memorable experience.
Wairarapa
Ruamahanga River
The Ruamahanga River, flowing through the beautiful Wairarapa region, is a fly fishing destination not to be missed. This river is known for its large population of brown and rainbow trout, providing anglers with a thrilling and rewarding fishing experience. Whether you choose to fish from the banks or wade into the water, the Ruamahanga River offers a range of fishing opportunities. The peaceful surroundings and the chance to catch some impressive trout make this river a top choice for fly fishing enthusiasts visiting the Wairarapa.
Waiohine River
The Waiohine River, situated in the scenic Wairarapa region, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts looking for a peaceful and secluded fishing experience. This beautiful river is known for its large brown trout, making it a sought-after destination for seasoned anglers. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or wade into the water, the Waiohine River promises a variety of fishing options. The tranquil surroundings and the chance to hook into some trophy-sized trout make this river a must-visit for any fly fishing enthusiast.
Palliser Bay
Palliser Bay, located in the southern part of the Wairarapa region, is a stunning coastal destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. The bay offers a unique combination of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities, with the chance to catch various fish species, including snapper, kahawai, and kingfish. Whether you choose to cast your line from the shore or venture out onto the water in a boat, Palliser Bay provides anglers with a remarkable fishing experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Lake Wairarapa
Lake Wairarapa, located in the southern part of the North Island, is a popular fly fishing destination known for its large brown trout. This shallow lake offers a range of fishing experiences, from fishing from a boat to wading the lake’s edges. The quiet solitude and the chance to catch trophy-sized trout make Lake Wairarapa a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and an abundance of wildlife, fishing in this beautiful lake is a truly unforgettable experience.
Hawkes Bay
Tukituki River
The Tukituki River, flowing through the stunning Hawkes Bay region, is a renowned fly fishing destination. This beautiful river is known for its large brown and rainbow trout populations, offering anglers a thrilling fishing experience. The Tukituki River provides a range of fishing opportunities, from wading in the swift channels to fishing from the riverbanks. The spectacular scenery and the chance to catch trophy-sized trout make fly fishing in the Tukituki River an absolute must for any angler visiting Hawkes Bay.
Mohaka River
The Mohaka River, located in the Hawkes Bay region, is a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque and remote river is home to large brown and rainbow trout, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing experiences. Whether you choose to fish from the riverbanks or explore the deep pools by boat, the Mohaka River promises excitement and rewards. The breathtaking surroundings and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized fish make the Mohaka River a top fly fishing destination.
Ngaruroro River
The Ngaruroro River, flowing through the stunning landscapes of Hawkes Bay, is a dream come true for fly fishing enthusiasts. This scenic river is home to both brown and rainbow trout, making it a sought-after fishing destination. The Ngaruroro River offers a mix of fishing opportunities, from wading its shallow sections to casting from its bankside vegetation. The picturesque surroundings, with vineyards and mountains as a backdrop, further enhance the appeal of fly fishing in the Ngaruroro River.
Lake Tutira
Lake Tutira, located in the Hawkes Bay region, is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. This picturesque lake is known for its large brown trout population, offering anglers a fantastic fishing experience. Whether you choose to fish from a boat or the shore, Lake Tutira promises a peaceful and rewarding fishing adventure. The stunning scenery, with rolling hills and lush greenery, makes fly fishing in Lake Tutira a tranquil experience that every angler should enjoy.