Southland is where New Zealand fly fishing truly comes alive. Home to legendary rivers like the Oreti, Mataura, Waikaia and Waiau, this region offers some of the country’s finest sight fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout.

From easy-walking streams packed with 3–5lb fish to larger rivers holding genuine 6–10lb trophies, Southland has water to suit every angler. It can be challenging at times, but when you spot a trout in crystal-clear water and watch it take your fly, you’ll understand exactly what makes this corner of New Zealand so special.

Seasons of Southland

Each season offers its own magic:
• Oct – Dec: High flows, confident feeders, and untouched trophy fish.
• Jan – Feb: Terrestrials, cicadas, and the legendary willow grub season.
• Mar – Apr: Classic mayfly hatches, rising fish, and calm autumn days.
• May: Rainbow and spawning brown waters — sight-fishing heaven with hardly another angler around.

For Every Angler

From first-timers to seasoned fly fishers, our half and full day guided adventures are tailored to suit your experience and the style of fishing you want to do. Whether it’s an easy-walking farmland stream, a technical trophy river, or chasing a specific hatch, we’ll match you with the right guide and the right water.

It’s the perfect way to explore Southland, improve your fly fishing, and experience some of New Zealand’s best trout water — all in a day.