The Roadie
Fly Fishing Expedition
NZ Fly Fishing Experience by road
Less itinerary. More possibility.
The Roadie is built around one simple idea: follow the conditions. Rather than returning to the same accommodation each night, we travel through the lower South Island, fishing wherever the weather, river conditions and local knowledge suggest the best opportunities lie. Trout, inconveniently, have very little interest in sticking to anyone’s schedule.
From alpine rivers and spring creeks to remote backcountry waters, every day is shaped by the fishing rather than a rigid plan. The route may change, the river may change, and the dinner spot may require some negotiation — but that’s all part of it. Comfortable accommodation, great local food and ever-changing scenery simply come with the journey.
Price
NZ$1400 per day
(for one or two anglers)
Minimum 2 consecutive days
of guided fly fishing
Book online
Expedition Details
- Duration: Minimum 2 consecutive guided days.
- Departure: Queenstown accommodation, or an agreed location.
- Return: Agreed destination at the end of your expedition.
- 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, video footage, digital photographs, Department of Conservation concessions where required, Safety equipment, GST.
- Package Exclusions: New Zealand Fish & Game licence, accommodation, meals and refreshments, equipment hire, drift boat option, credit card fees, guides accommodation and food.
See our helpful links page to help with your planning.
The Water
With no fixed base, the Roadie opens up an extraordinary range of fisheries across the lower South Island.
Depending on conditions, we may fish Southland, Fiordland, Otago, South Westland, the Mackenzie Country or beyond. From crystal-clear spring creeks and freestone rivers to alpine streams, braided rivers and remote lakes, every day offers new water to explore.
The Fish
These waters are home to wild brown trout, with rainbow trout found in selected fisheries. Seasonal sea-run brown trout and Chinook salmon also provide exciting opportunities on certain rivers.
Most fishing is sight-based, where patience, observation and presentation are just as important as casting. Average trout commonly range from 3–5lb, with genuine trophy fish always a possibility.
What to Expect
No two Roadie expeditions are ever the same.
Each day begins by deciding where the best fishing will be, before travelling to the next destination and settling into accommodation for the evening. Along the way you'll experience outstanding fishing, spectacular scenery and the freedom to explore some of New Zealand's most remarkable rivers.
Your guide will tailor each day to the conditions, your experience and the type of fishing you're looking for.
Best Time to Fish
The Roadie can be enjoyed throughout the fly fishing season, with the flexibility to move between regions ensuring excellent opportunities from start to finish.
- 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?
The Roadie is about having options.
Instead of planning around accommodation, we plan around the fishing. That means following favourable weather, changing river conditions and local knowledge to stay on the best water throughout your expedition.
It's a flexible approach that simply isn't possible from a single base—and one that gives you the greatest opportunity to experience the very best fly fishing the lower South Island has to offer.