Southern Lakes Fishing Safaris provide guided fishing for Brown and Rainbow trout on the streams, rivers and lakes of the Southern Lakes region in the South Island of New Zealand.

There are over 30 rivers and streams to choose from within 1 ½ hours drive.

Brown trout and Rainbow trout were introduced in the late 1800’s and have thrived in New Zealand’s clean, clear waters.

The Brown trout is renowned for providing the ultimate fly fishing experience. The Rainbow trout is renowned for its spectacular fighting ability.

One of the major fly fishing attractions in New Zealand is the ability to sight fish. This is where we spot the trout in the stream, river or lake and then cast the fly to the fish. It is challenging, exciting and rewarding fishing.

The majority of the trout photographed on this website were first spotted and then cast to.

All the trout are wild. There is no stocking of fish in the area and so they are not necessarily easy to catch ! Some days it is easy fishing, most days you have to work at it, have a positive attitude and be patient.

The rewards are definitely worth the effort ! That old saying “they don’t get big by being stupid “ certainly applies. With over 30 years experience I will do my best to get you hooked !.

The trout average 3-4lbs, 5-7 lb fish are caught regularly and larger fish occasionally ! . We encourage catch and release to maintain the quality fishery.

The usual means of transport is courtesy 4WD vehicle. As already mentioned there are at least 30 streams and rivers within 1 1/2hrs drive.

There are also several lakes nearby that offer lake edge fishing which involves sight fishing to cruising brown and rainbow trout using dry flies, nymphs or streamers. Given the right conditions this can be very exciting fishing.

The options available each day are fully discussed and depend on experience, levels of fitness and the present weather conditions.

If you have several days available we can put together an itinerary that will enable you to experience the full spectrum of magnificent fishing available in the area.

Each day fishing usually involves a certain amount of walking. Spouses and friends are most welcome to accompany you. They can relax, sit on the bank, read a book, go for a walk or watch you fish the stream or river.