New Zealand Fly Fishing Itineraries and Travel
Every New Zealand fishing guide develops their own favorite fly selections, and these preferences can vary considerably.
While some anglers will visit New Zealand and bring their favorite patterns, it may be best sometimes to allow the guide (who has local knowledge and experience) to match the hatch. There’s certainly no one-size-fits-all approach and the best fly choice depends on several factors throughout the spring-summer-autumn season:
Generally, larger flies work better in high water conditions (like spring) and fast-moving water, while smaller flies are ideal for low water (around February) and still water. Most Americans will not fish still water in New Zealand. The lakes in Tasmania is perhaps best known for still water fly fishing in the Southern Hemisphere.
Here’s a list of suggested fly patterns by month as suggested by Tony Orman, just to give you a starting point. Remember, every guide will likely have their own unique recommendations based on their experience and favorite flies. Feel free to adjust this list based on the specific advice you get from your guide.
Nymphs:
Dry Flies:
Streamers:
To October’s selection add:
Nymphs:
Pheasant tail size 10, 12, 14
Dry Flies:
Retain your existing fly selection, but consider adding some smaller options to cover various hatches and feeding behaviors:
Nymphs:
Dry Flies:
As the weather cools and brings a crispness to early mornings and evenings, consider making some slight adjustments to your fly selection:
Nymphs: While you can maintain your current selection, think about adding some slightly larger sizes (perhaps size 12) in hares ear and pheasant tail nymphs. These can be more effective in attracting fish during this time.
Dry Flies: Dry flies in sizes 10 and 12 with a touch of “attractor” color, like a red bodied humpy, remain a good choice this month.
Wonderful photos from the Sabbatinis fly fishing adventure on New Zealand’s South Island rivers!🎣🏞️
#newzealandflyfishing #southislandnz #luxurytravelnz #catchandrealease #bestofnzflyfishing
Wonderful photos from the Sabbatinis fly fishing adventure on New Zealand’s South Island rivers!🎣🏞️
#newzealandflyfishing #southislandnz #luxurytravelnz #catchandrealease #bestofnzflyfishing
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After one honeymoon summer fishing New Zealand`s spectacular fly rivers and streams, Canadian photographer David Lambroughton was hooked: 25 years later he is still to miss a season. Story and photographs: David Lambroughton As a photographer specialising in fly fishing, it has been easy to fall in love with much of what I`ve seen through my lens: the big brawling salmon rivers of Norway, the massive sunsets over Argentine trout waters, the lush spring creeks of Montana, or the lovely steelhead pools on British Columbia streams....
https://www.bestofnzflyfishing.com/news/the-lure-of-fly-fishing/
After one honeymoon summer fishing New Zealand`s spectacular fly rivers and streams, Canadian photographer David Lambroughton was hooked: 25 years later he is still to miss a season. Story and photographs: David Lambroughton As a photographer specialising in fly fishing, it has been easy to fall in love with much of what I`ve seen through my lens: the big brawling salmon rivers of Norway, the massive sunsets over Argentine trout waters, the lush spring creeks of Montana, or the lovely steelhead pools on British Columbia streams....
https://www.bestofnzflyfishing.com/news/the-lure-of-fly-fishing/
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While in the Northland many will not have the chance to play Waitangi GC. It’s a shame because the setting and proximity to the excellent museum is a great way to spend a day enjoying this beautiful area! #waitangigolfcourse #waitangi #newzealand #northisland @bestofnz_travel
While in the Northland many will not have the chance to play Waitangi GC. It’s a shame because the setting and proximity to the excellent museum is a great way to spend a day enjoying this beautiful area! #waitangigolfcourse #waitangi #newzealand #northisland @bestofnz_travel ...
Fly fishing guides in New Zealand do so much to make your trip a success. They know great spots to fish and can really spot trout!
Thinking about travelling to New Zealand? Spots for the 2025-26 season are filling fast. Reach out to one of our Experts today!
Fly fishing guides in New Zealand do so much to make your trip a success. They know great spots to fish and can really spot trout!
Thinking about travelling to New Zealand? Spots for the 2025-26 season are filling fast. Reach out to one of our Experts today!
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Mastering Fishing Tackle for New Zealand’s Trout Waters
Essentials Fishing tackle is the foundation of success for New Zealand trout fishing, where the rivers and lakes offer unparalleled opportunities for anglers to test their skills. Fishing in New Zealand isn’t just a pastime—it’s an art form. Across the country, anglers have embraced lightweight fly fishing gear, especially during the summer months.
Link in Bio to Read More!
https://www.bestofnzflyfishing.com/fly-fishing/mastering-fishing-tackle-for-new-zealands-trout-waters/
#bestofnzflyfishing #nzflyfishing
Mastering Fishing Tackle for New Zealand’s Trout Waters
Essentials Fishing tackle is the foundation of success for New Zealand trout fishing, where the rivers and lakes offer unparalleled opportunities for anglers to test their skills. Fishing in New Zealand isn’t just a pastime—it’s an art form. Across the country, anglers have embraced lightweight fly fishing gear, especially during the summer months.
Link in Bio to Read More!
https://www.bestofnzflyfishing.com/fly-fishing/mastering-fishing-tackle-for-new-zealands-trout-waters/
#bestofnzflyfishing #nzflyfishing
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It’s been a while since we posted so here a reminder of what awaits you in New Zealand. Look at this monster! Look at that smile on Mr Amero! Nice hat too! @tongariro_lodge
It’s been a while since we posted so here a reminder of what awaits you in New Zealand. Look at this monster! Look at that smile on Mr Amero! Nice hat too! @tongariro_lodge ...
(🔗LINK IN BIO) Hooked on New Zealand: A Fly Fishing Primer
When it comes to fly fishing, there are three primary techniques used to present your fly to a fish: nymphing, dry fly, and streamer fishing. While each method involves enticing a fish to strike, they differ significantly in their approach.
(🔗LINK IN BIO) Hooked on New Zealand: A Fly Fishing Primer
When it comes to fly fishing, there are three primary techniques used to present your fly to a fish: nymphing, dry fly, and streamer fishing. While each method involves enticing a fish to strike, they differ significantly in their approach.
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Congrats to Raffi B. for landing this trophy Brown in the heart of the South Island. Since 1990 the Best of New Zealand has specialized in those “don’t want to go home” moments. It’s about the people you meet, the hidden spots you discover, and the experts who make sure every detail is spot on.
Now is the time to reach out to the experts! We are officially opening the books for the 2026-27 season.
#newzealandtravel #flyfishingnz #newzealandadventures #riverviewlodge #bestofnzflyfishing
Congrats to Raffi B. for landing this trophy Brown in the heart of the South Island. Since 1990 the Best of New Zealand has specialized in those “don’t want to go home” moments. It’s about the people you meet, the hidden spots you discover, and the experts who make sure every detail is spot on.
Now is the time to reach out to the experts! We are officially opening the books for the 2026-27 season.
#newzealandtravel #flyfishingnz #newzealandadventures #riverviewlodge #bestofnzflyfishing
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Few anglers have logged more casts, more catches, and more laughs on New Zealand’s rivers than Al Coble.
Year after year, he returns to test himself, which is really a testament to passion, patience, and a love for these waters that runs deep.
Here’s to another season of unforgettable moments, Al. You’ve earned your legend status for sure!
#bestofnzflyfishing #troutfishingnewzealand #catchandrealease #flyfishingadventures #newzealandtravel
Few anglers have logged more casts, more catches, and more laughs on New Zealand’s rivers than Al Coble.
Year after year, he returns to test himself, which is really a testament to passion, patience, and a love for these waters that runs deep.
Here’s to another season of unforgettable moments, Al. You’ve earned your legend status for sure!
#bestofnzflyfishing #troutfishingnewzealand #catchandrealease #flyfishingadventures #newzealandtravel
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@christchurchgolfclub dates back to the 1870s and is a fantastic place to play. Updates by Peter Thomson provide an accessible and challenging round. #golfnz @bestofnz_travel
@christchurchgolfclub dates back to the 1870s and is a fantastic place to play. Updates by Peter Thomson provide an accessible and challenging round. #golfnz @bestofnz_travel ...
New Zealand will welcome back anglers this year. Want to be among the first to Poronui? We just released an all-inclusive ground package on our site- check it out!
New Zealand will welcome back anglers this year. Want to be among the first to Poronui? We just released an all-inclusive ground package on our site- check it out! ...
A few photos of Mr. Rooney enjoying a beautiful day @tongariro_lodge on his recent trip to New Zealand.
Thinking of travelling for the 25-26 season? Contact one of our Experts today!
#nzflyfishing #luxurynztravel #newzealandvacation #wildtrout #flyfishing #bestofnzflyfishing #catchoftheday
A few photos of Mr. Rooney enjoying a beautiful day @tongariro_lodge on his recent trip to New Zealand.
Thinking of travelling for the 25-26 season? Contact one of our Experts today!
#nzflyfishing #luxurynztravel #newzealandvacation #wildtrout #flyfishing #bestofnzflyfishing #catchoftheday
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