Equipment and What to Bring

Southern Lakes Fishing Safaris has quality fly fishing equipment available: rods, waders, boots . If you wish to bring your own fly rod a 9 foot, 6 weight rod is the preferred choice for this area. A 6 weight rod covers most situations we encounter from casting into wind to casting delicately to trout in gin clear water .

The fly line should be weight forward floating and neutral colored (olive is best) for our clear waters. Bring a selection of tapered leaders from 9-14 ft, sizes 3x to 6x. We have plenty of dry flies, nymphs and streamers suited to the local conditions. You may wish to bring your own favourite fly patterns to try on the day !.

A good quality pair of Polaroid sunglasses are essential for spotting trout in the streams, rivers and lakes. Waders are used early or late season or on the occasional cooler day in summer !. Lightweight gortex or similar stocking foot waders are best, with rubber soled boots (now a legal requirement) and gravel guards. On most days from late Dec -March the water temperature is warm enough wade wet, so bring quick dry long pants (e.g. Columbia) or thermal long johns and shorts.

To avoid spooking fish the top layers of clothing for fishing should be dull colored such as olive, brown or blue (e.g. not white, bright red or yellow) . Bring a wide brimmed hat or a cap. A rain coat and polar fleece sweater is handy too if the weather is cool or inclement. We are in a mountain region so the weather can change rapidly at any time of year. It is therefore essential to be prepared. A day pack is recommended to carry items such as camera, sunscreen and raincoat.