Fiordland Fly Fishing Overview
This is a specialised fly fishing experience in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, approximately 2 hours drive south of Queenstown. The region is well known for being well stocked with both Rainbow and Brown trout. Your first 3 days will see you fly fishing the Waiau River followed by another 2 days fishing on the surrounding rivers of the Fiordland region. Expect to be fishing for around 8 hours each day. With all these days guiding, included are: lunches (BBQ on the Waiau River days with crayfish & venison), transfers and all equipment required.
The Waiau River
Accessing the 28km Waiau River is very difficult and requires a Jet Boat. This means the Waiau River enjoys very little fishing pressure all season long and as a result boasts some of the best fly fishing grounds in New Zealand. On this trip, you will experience 3 full days of fly fishing on the Waiau River via a Jet Boat. In addition to fly we can also offer spin fishing (casting lures) on the Waiau which is a very productive way to catch fish.
When to Go
The main trout fly-fishing season opens on the 1st October and runs through until the end of April. February is the busiest month for visiting overseas anglers. January – March is the main terrestrial dry fly time with the Cicada’s and Blowflies buzzing about.
What to Take
You will just need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear which we can advise at the time of booking. Anglers are more than welcome to bring their own rods but this package includes all equipment required. Your guides supply quality Composite Development rods and waders if required (No extra charge).
All clothing should be dull coloured to blend into the surroundings. Bright colours easily spook the clear water means the fish. Bring clothing for both warm and cool conditions and don’t forget a rain jacket.
A wide brim hat aids spotting fish and protects from the hot sun. Note that the air is very clear in NZ and with lower ozone levels at times it’s very easy to get sun burnt so please be aware of this and use sun cream on all exposed skin.
Polaroid sunglasses are a must for spotting fish. And don’t forget the sunscreen and insect repellent.
Fishing Licenses
Fly-fishing in New Zealand requires all anglers to hold a fishing license before they go fishing. As visiting angler to New Zealand all guests will need to purchase a Non-Resident License (NRL) at a cost of NZ$161 per person. Secondly, each angler will also need a Back Country License (no additional cost). The Back Country License can only be obtained after you have purchased your NRL. Your licenses can be purchased through the Fish and Game New Zealand website.
We can customise any of our featured packages to suit your personal travel requirements. Mates’ Escapes can also build fully tailored one-of-a-kind itineraries from the ground up, if you can dream it up we can certainly make it happen.
We can tailor a trips regardless of your group size, be it 2, 8 or 20. Get in touch with us and let’s discuss your options.
Booking Conditions
- A deposit of $150 per person is required to confirm your booking.
- Final Balance is due 45 days prior to your departure.
- Rates shown are based on twin share occupancy.
Payment Options
- Direct Debit into our Bank Account. Details will be shown on your invoice.
- Credit Card (Surcharges apply).
- Cheques can be made payable to PlaySeeGo Travel Group Pty Ltd and posted to PO Box 34, Kew East, Victoria, 3102.
Additional Terms
Cancellation policy for this package is as follows:
- Cancellation outside 90 days of your booking, a 100% refund will be given.
- Cancellation of 90 days or less of your booking, customer will be charged 100% of their deposit.
- Booking costs are subject to change until final payment has been received and cleared by Mates’ Escapes.
Please refer to our General Terms & Conditions that are also used in conjunction with this package’s terms.