New Zealand -- The Angler's El Dorado
Since the dawn of time, the seas surrounding New Zealand have sported a bounty of marlin, swordfish, tuna and a variety of other species. The inland lakes and streams, however, remained relatively unpopulated.Following the introduction of trout into New Zealand at the latter part of the last century, and the recognition of this country as a world class fishery in the early part of this century, anglers from all over the world have looked to New Zealand as the Mecca of Angling-the world's best wild trout fishery.
A Trout Fisher's Paradise
Both the North and the South islands of New Zealand offer excellent stream fishing for browns and rainbows. In particular, there are certain areas of the North Island that offer anglers a chance of a lifetime to fish on water holding the purest strain of brown trout in the world. Other streams hold large rainbows and browns. Their reputation draws anglers from far and wide in search of a trophy fish. Each year trout in excess of ten pounds are taken.
Besides New Zealand's famous "gin clear" streams and spring creeks, there are hundreds of fishable lakes throughout the country, including the areas of Rotorua, Taupo, Nelson and Southland. Most lakes throughout New Zealand are well worth the visit.
Quality Not Quantity
New Zealand is often compared to Alaska, but the quality and diversity of its fresh water species is a heaven on Earth to the fly fishing purist. The average size of the trout is 3 to 4 pounds, exceeding most anglers' wildest imaginations. A good day on a New Zealand stream might only be 3 or 4 fish, but they could average better than 5 pounds!
