Southland
Fly Fishing Explorer

Southland NZ Fly Fishing Expeditions

Two days deeper into trout country

Some rivers are worth more than a day.

Based from Lumsden in the heart of Southland, this multi-day expedition opens the door to an extraordinary range of fisheries across Southland, Fiordland and Otago. With more than 40 rivers, streams and lakes within easy reach, every day begins with the same question: where will the fishing be best today? A good problem to have, admittedly.

Rather than returning to Queenstown each evening, you’ll stay close to the water, giving us the flexibility to fish further, adapt to changing conditions and make the most of every day on the river. Fewer long drives back. More time where you actually came to be.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated fly fishing holiday or adding a few unforgettable days to your New Zealand adventure, this expedition provides access to some of the finest trout water in the lower South Island.

Price

NZ$1,400 per day
(for one or two anglers)
2 consecutive full days of guided fly fishing

Book online

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Expedition Details

  • Duration: Two consecutive guided days (additional days available).
    Day 1: Pick-up from Queenstown or Lumsden, then fish the best river for the day’s conditions. Overnight in Lumsden or return to Queenstown.
    Day 2: Pick-up in Lumsden/Queenstown, then fish a different river before return drop-off in Lumsden,or Queenstown. 
  • Departure: Queenstown accommodation,or Lumsden accommodation.
  • Return: Lumsden accommodation, Queenstown accommodation  (late afternoon to early evening, depending on the day's fishing location).
  • Group Size: Maximum two anglers per guide.
  • Suitable For: Beginner to experienced anglers.
  • Target Species: Wild brown trout and rainbow trout.
  • Season: October to May.
  • Equipment Hire: Available on request
    (Quality fly fishing equipment can be hired if required, including rods, reels, waders and boots).
  • Package Inclusions: Professional fly fishing guide, 4WD transport during guided days, Department of Conservation concessions where required, safety equipment, GST.
  • Package Exclusions: New Zealand Fish & Game licence, accommodation, breakfast, lunch and evening meals, fuel, equipment hire, helicopter excursions, boat trips, credit card fees.
    See our helpful links page to help with your planning.

The Water

Lumsden sits at the centre of one of New Zealand's greatest fly fishing regions.

Within a short drive are freestone rivers, spring creeks, braided river systems, alpine streams and remote backcountry waters stretching across Southland, Fiordland and Otago. Every river fishes differently. Every season changes the conditions. And having so many options means we're never committed to a single destination if a better opportunity exists elsewhere.

The Fish

These waters are renowned for their wild brown trout, with rainbow trout also found in selected fisheries. Seasonal runs of sea-run brown trout and Chinook salmon provide additional opportunities on certain rivers.

Most fish are sight-fished in exceptionally clear water, where patience, observation and presentation matter just as much as casting ability. Average fish commonly range from 3–5lb, with genuine trophy trout always a possibility.

What to Expect

No two expeditions follow exactly the same plan.

On the first morning we'll collect you from Queenstown or meet you in Lumsden before heading to the river offering the best conditions. After a full day on the water, you'll spend the night in your chosen accommodation before exploring a different fishery on day two.

Your guide will help with everything from reading water and spotting fish to improving presentation and refining technique. Whether you're chasing your first New Zealand trout or searching for the fish of a lifetime, each day is tailored to your experience and goals.

Best Time to Fish

Southland offers exceptional fly fishing throughout the season, with each period bringing its own advantages.

  • October – November
    Fresh, well-rested fish, cooler water and quieter rivers.
  • December – March
    Prime dry fly season, with long days and outstanding sight fishing.
  • April – May
    Autumn colours, cooler conditions and excellent opportunities on larger pre-spawning fish.

Why Fish With Us?

Basing ourselves in Lumsden gives us something that's difficult to replicate — options.

With dozens of rivers within easy reach, we can adapt every day to changing weather, river levels and fishing conditions rather than returning to the same water.

Every expedition is guided by local knowledge, shaped by the conditions and built around finding the best fishing available on the day.

Book online

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How is the Southland Explorer different from the Queenstown day trip?

This is a multi-day expedition based overnight in Lumsden rather than a single day out of Queenstown. Over two or more consecutive days you fish a different river or stream each day, chosen to suit the weather and your goals, which lets you get right into the heart of Southland's sight-fishing water.

What's the minimum trip length?

It's a two-consecutive-day minimum. More guided days can be arranged on request — return clients regularly run expeditions of up to 10 days from the Lumsden base.

What does it cost?

NZD $1,400.00/day for the two-day package, plus gear hire if needed. The price covers two days of guided fly fishing, safety and risk management, DoC concessions, 4WD transport and GST. The guide is shared between two anglers.

What's not included?

Breakfast, lunch and evening meals, accommodation, fishing licences, helicopter excursions, and boat trips.  

Do I have to arrange my own accommodation?

Yes — you book your own accommodation in Lumsden to suit your budget and needs, and you don't need to provide a room for the guide. The site lists providers in Lumsden, Balfour and Mossburn, ranging from river houses and lodges through to hotels, motels, a campground and B&Bs.

Can I drive myself, or do I need a Queenstown pickup?

Either works. You can hire your own vehicle and meet the guide in Lumsden, or be picked up from your Queenstown accommodation (or Queenstown Airport) at the start and dropped back there at the end. On day two you're collected from your Lumsden accommodation.

What time do the days start?

Pickups are usually between 7.30am and 8.00am, depending on where you're staying and the day's fishing plan.

Where's Lumsden and why is it the base?

Lumsden is a small rural Southland town just over an hour's drive south of Queenstown, sitting close to the banks of the Oreti River. It's considered by many the best base in Southland because it's so central — there are 40-plus rivers, streams and lakes within about a 1.5-hour radius, with access into Southland, Fiordland and Otago.

What kind of water and fish should I expect?

A wide variety: large alluvial riverbeds, tussock- and grass-lined streams, mountain rivers running through sub-temperate rainforest, crystal-clear spring creeks, small tarns and large lakes. They hold large wily brown trout, with rainbows on some waters. Average fish are around the 20-inch mark (roughly 3–5 lb), with many larger, and genuine 10 lb+ trophy browns landed each year.

Are there sea trout or salmon?

Some southern rivers get runs of sea trout after Christmas, plus small runs of Chinook salmon in February and March.

When's the best time to fish Southland?

The season runs 1 October to 31 May. Early season (Oct–Nov) has rivers dropping from snowmelt and well-rested fish that haven't seen an angler in five months. December to March is prime, with peak surface insect life and around 70% of fish taken on dry fly. April onward brings more changeable conditions and good mayfly activity, with dry fly, terrestrials, nymphs and streamers all in play.

Do I need my own gear?

No. Waders, boots, rods and reels can be hired at NZD $50.00 per angler per day if you're not bringing your own.

Do I need a fishing licence, and which one?

Yes, and it's not included in the trip price — many clients fishing elsewhere in NZ already hold a full-season licence. A full-season licence is the best option as it opens up the best water and is mandatory for heli-fishing. As a guide to costs: a NZ Full Season licence is about NZ$153 for residents and NZ$264 for non-residents (covering all of NZ except the Taupō region), while a non-resident day licence is around NZ$37 but excludes certain blue-ribbon fisheries. A Designated Waters licence may also be needed. Licences are available through Fish & Game NZ, and the guide is happy to help you choose the right one.

Where do I get food and supplies in Lumsden?

Lumsden has a 4 Square supermarket, a basic store that opens around 6:30am for breakfast basics, and several places to eat out including cafés and takeaways. Many people stock up at the New World in Frankton (Queenstown) before heading down, since it's open 8am–9pm daily.

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