NYMPH MANIAC DOWNUNDER

Casting lines from a fanatical Australian/New Zealand fly fisherman

Monday, December 20, 2010

The Hunter River






The Hunter river was the most spectacular part of our November trip to New Zealand. It was iconic New Zealand fishing, all what the fishing journalists talk about. It was in the New Zealand "back country" where the fishing was in spectacular surroundings.

The hunter river flows through a valley which has only limted access. Some people helicopter in, others jet boat in during times when this is permissable, while others drive in using a 4WD, crossing 4 rivers and spending an intense 2 hours driving on roads which are used by Hunter Station to care for their cattle and sheep. Hunter Station allows access while staying in one of their huts. Col, Chris and I stayed at Boundary hut.

This  video is a catalogue of our experience in the Hunter Valley.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

New Zealand Again

Col, Chris and I have been to New Zealand's South Island in November! This is our fourth  trip together in the south island.


It was the best fishing trip yet! The weather was spectacular, although the local farmers were all crying out for rain. The rivers were very fishable, with clear fresh water flowing down rivers with stone bottoms.


The fish were co-operating as well. We caught both browns and rainbows, on dry flies (often using blow flies which are a blue humpy style pattern) and small nymphs.



A total of 16 fishing days, thanks to my wife Merrie who helps me organise the flights and some parts of the accommodation. She also allows me the time to spend in one part of God's incredible creation. Thanks Merrie.


Three Aussie blokes who had one purpose, that is to catch trout in one of the most spectacular parts of the world. One couple commented in one of our caravan parks that we stayed in that they were impressed by the the way we worked together, in this case it was the preparation of our evening meal.


Thankyou Col, Chris and the South Island New Zealand.