new zealand

Western Rivers Lodge

South Island, New Zealand

Fishing

To experience fly fishing for wild brown trout in New Zealand’s South Island is every serious fly fisher’s ultimate dream. It has been described as “the university of fly fishing for large wild trout”.

Run by owners Barry Jaggar and Ali, Western Rivers Lodge has the deserved reputation of one of the finest lodges in New Zealand. It is located at the remote village of Springs Junction in the southern alpine area, 2 hours’ drive from Christchurch. In this unique area they have access to no less than 45 rivers and streams.

These wild, gin clear rivers offer a classic fly fishing experience, sight casting to trophy wild brown trout. The average trout here weighs 5lbs with many in the 6-8lb class and plenty over 10lbs!

Accommodation

Guests are accommodated in luxurious private chalets with twin queen sized beds with en-suite bathrooms. The verandas overlook the garden and have tremendous views of the Maruia valley and the Victoria range of mountains beyond.

All meals are taken in the main lodge which boasts a comfortable lounge, bar and dining room.

Hosted by Barry and Ali the meals they produce are exquisite, using the finest local produce, washed down with superb New Zealand wine.

Season

The fishing season on the South Island lasts from October 1st to April 30th which covers spring, summer and autumn.

October/November - The weather can be cool/changeable but good for large numbers of fish, some dry fly action and spectacular nymph fishing.

December - One of the best months to fish. Caddis and Mayfly are hatching, with terrestrials appearing. Good for both the nymph and dry fly.

January - Middle of summer, with insects hatching all day. Cicada arrives, and the rivers are clear.

February - Rivers are gin clear and it is the prime month for dry fly anglers.

March/April - Late summer. The first two weeks of March similar to February. Later stonefly and caddis nymphs are preferred.

Prices

Accommodation - Includes breakfast, lunch and four-course dinner.

Share twin NZ$300 per person per night
Single NZ$350 per person per night

Guided Fishing - Includes daily transport and streamside lunch

One angler NZ$600 per day
Two anglers NZ$650 per day

Helicopter fly-outs - From NZ$1000 - $1800 depending on destination

Transfers - To or from Christchurch or Nelson NZ$350

For more information contact:

The Total Fly Fishing Co.
Court Street Farmhouse
Court Street
Tisbury
Wiltshire
SP3 6LN

T: 01747 871 856
W: www.totalflyfishing.co.uk
E: info@totalflyfishing.co.uk