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Southland New Zealand fly fishing guides Mataura River trout fishing.
Southland New Zealand Fly Fishing Mataura River (November -April) My river is called the Mataura. The Mataura River has a world wide reputation as being one of the best brown trout fishing rivers in the world. The 'mad Mataura rise' is legendary as are the numbers of fish which live in the river. Although it is the Mataura which grabs the international limelight, there are numerous rivers and streams in the region which provide equally superb fishing opportunities. With water so pure it is often described as 'gin clear', easy public access and plentiful fish this part of Southland is an anglers paradise.
But be warned!! Anglers should not be deceived by stories that trout in this area are easy to catch. Anglers fishing in these parts will find catching brown trout a challenge but those who take time to hone their skills and learn about the ways of the fish who live here will be well rewarded Southland Rivers have long provided wonderful trout fishing not only for local anglers but also for the many visitors from around New Zealand and overseas. They travel to our region to test their skill in some of the best brown trout fisheries in the world and to fish for rainbow trout in the spectacular mountain streams.
My region abounds with numerous quality fishing rivers, streams and lakes. I have,27 excellent fishing rivers and streams within 2 hours easy driving from Gore. Gore, The World Capital of Brown Trout Fishing There are numerous unique features that differentiate our freshwater fishing from the other fishing regions within New Zealand. These include:
- Seclusion and tranquillity
- Natural surroundings
- Clean clear water
- Easy and good access to water
- Wild trout hatchery (rather than farmed trout)
- Large number of trout in good condition
- Low density of anglers
- High probability of catch
- Wide range of fishing experiences in a small geographical area
The Mataura River has a worldwide reputation as being one of the best brown trout fishing rivers in the world. This is due to the fact that it has the highest population and catch rates of any river in New Zealand. It is also famous for its hatches and spinner falls and is the best match the hatch fishing in New Zealand How do I get to Southland? Daily international flights arrive from around the world at either Auckland , Christchurch, Dunedin or Queenstown Driving times to Gore (the centre of Southland's fishing) are: From Christchurch 6 hours From Dunedin 2 hours From Invercargill 50 minutes From Queenstown 2 hours. All this is easy driving on wide-open highways and the above times allow for some stops on the way. What type of equipment and gear should I bring?
#5 or #6 weight rod & dark coloured fly line Size #12 - 18 Dry Flys & Nymphs( black or gold beads) Breatheable waders not necessary but can be useful plus wading boots with felt soles. Warm clothes and polyprops if the weather changes, and a good rain coat What time of the year is the best time to come?
November to April provides excellent fishing but the months of November and December are ideal, as there is no crowding of the rivers by other visiting anglers.
February /March sees usually settled weather and great fishing but is a very popular time for other international anglers. Note: Southland's river fishing season runs from October 1st to April 30th What is the weather like? The climate of Southland is a reasonably temperate one. Being an island, our climate is dictated by the seas around us and therefore can be changeable. But that is the beauty of Southland - if the weather is not suitable for fishing in one area, a 30 minute drive could find you in conditions that are perfect for fishing.
4x4 transport and also helicopter services can be provided. There are accommodations from cabins on the river to exclusive Farm stays, Hotels and Motels and Flats, plus back packers available so all types of peoples needs and affordability levels are catered to. We also do 1/2 days and full days, usual day starts at 8.00am in the summer and finishes about 6.30pm but all depends on the weather and the fishing.
Lodging I now work with a fishing lodge on the Mataura river called Brentleigh owned and operated my Brian and Mary Dillon, Mary's a great cook and the rooms are always very clean and self contained. Heli Trips Helicopter rides into those the hard to get to places, remote unspoiled rivers in Fiordland, Piloted by James Hore of Nokomai Heli-tours an excellent pilot. Pack Trips 2 day trips into some of the remote rivers that run into Fiordland lakes only accessible across the lakes by boat or helicopter only for the very fit as ther are lots of bush bashing and heaps of river crossing the the trout are big and boisterish. Questions? Click below Request Information
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