Fly Fishing

On the eastern side of the Southern Alps, the rivers run from their narrow headwaters into wider, braided streams flowing through high alpine valleys surrounded by high peaks. These rivers hold wild rainbow and brown trout and the fish are known for their strength and fight as a result of their cold, fast flowing alpine environment. The region and its rivers provide an incredible landscape in which to spend a day of wilderness fishing

Minaret Station privately owns a 50,000 acre parcel of wilderness providing guests with exclusive access to prime fishing rivers in the Southern Alps. In addition to this, Minaret Station holds independent concessions to fish on conservation lands covering some four million acres including National Parks and world heritage areas. Oxygen and nutrient rich glacier fed alpine streams and rivers produce fish that are in strong condition ensuring that setting the hook is only half the challenge. Gin-clear water allows early spotting of fish. This clarity however means that whilst anglers can see the fish, the fish can also see the angler. Spot and stalk is the method of choice and by far the most exciting. Anglers often use dry fly, streamer and nymph techniques on the same stretch of water.

South Island river fishing opens at the beginning of October and runs through to the end of April. This season is characterised by distinct periods which present quite different fishing conditions and challenges to the angler. Most of the major lakes can be fished on a year round basis with varying levels of activity.

Inclusions:

• Private helicopter charter

• Professional guide

• Fully catered gourmet picnic lunch

Time Required: Allow a full day, timings depending on weather and water conditions

Landings: Multiple

Fishing Licences  We can assist with licenses and all aspects of your wilderness fishing experience. The additional cost per license is $305 per person.

Equipment Hire Available: Yes

Fitness Level Required: Medium

Guide Ratio: 1 Guide / 2 Anglers Max

Rates

Departures Wanaka, Queenstown & Minaret Station Alpine Lodge

Fishing (squirrel helicopter): $13,450 

Fishing (MD500 helicopter): $9,450

Rates in NZD