New Zealand is still truly one of the greatest options for fly fishing travel in the world. For anglers willing to travel, the South Island offers a rare mix of accessibility, variety, and consistent sight-fishing for wild trout. Paired with strong lodge programs and thoughtful service, it’s a destination that works just as well for serious anglers as it does for couples, families, or small groups looking to experience more than just the fishing.

Owen River Lodge

Owen River Lodge is a well-rounded program set near Kahurangi National Park, with access to more than 25 rivers and streams within a short drive. The fishing centers on classic New Zealand sight-fishing across a wide range of water—from small, technical streams to larger freestones—targeting brown trout that commonly run 3–6 pounds, with larger fish present each season. The lodge itself is comfortable without being overdone, offering private cottage suites with river and mountain views, strong cuisine built around local ingredients, and a level of service that works just as well for non-anglers as it does for those focused on the fishing.

• October 10th - 29th, 2026 (4 rooms available)
• November 3rd - 9th, 2026 (3 rooms available)
• November 14th - 23rd, 2026 (4 rooms available)
• November 23rd - December 4th, 2026 (2 rooms available)
• December 11th - 22nd, 2026 (3 rooms available)
• December 22nd, 2026 - January 3rd, 2027 (4 rooms available)
• March 14th - 24th, 2027 (4 rooms available)
• March 31st - April 20th, 2027 (6 rooms available)

Cedar Lodge

Cedar Lodge is a more specialized experience based on access to remote water, with heli-fishing at the core of the program. Located on the Makarora River at the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park, it provides entry to isolated fisheries where anglers stalk and sight-cast to wild brown and rainbow trout in clear, lightly pressured conditions. With just four guest rooms, the lodge keeps things intimate and focused, combining daily fly-outs with a high-end but relaxed atmosphere back at the lodge, making it a strong fit for anglers prioritizing solitude and hard-to-reach water.

For the month of November, any 4N/3D Heli Package will receive a 5th night and a 4th day of Heli fishing, paid for by the lodge. This applies to single or double occupancy groups, but only during Novemeber 2026 at Cedar Lodge.

• November 10th - 20th, 2026 (4 rooms available)
• November 20th - 26th, 2026 (2 rooms available)
• December 2nd - 6th, 2026 (2 rooms available)
• December 7th - 21st (3 rooms available)
• February 19th - 24th (2 rooms available)
• February 27th - March 3rd (1 room available)
• March 11th - 18th (4 rooms available)
• March 24th - 31st (3 rooms available)
• April 1st - 15th (4 rooms available)

Contact Kristene Fitzgerald for more information.