New Zealand Brown Trout
Lake Brunner Lodge - 6 nights, 5 days fishing - $1,265
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Map
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Photo Gallery
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Every serious brown trout fisherman dreams of a New Zealand trip, for this country offers some of the best stream trout fishing in the world. New Zealand offers quality fishing—rather than quantity—and most trout caught are likely to weigh more than three pounds. The best brown trout fishing is on the South Island, where the classic stalking takes place. Casts are not made until a fish is spotted. First, the trout is spotted, usually by the sharp-eyed guide, who creeps quietly along the bank, then the angler slowly and carefully gets into position to make the presentation. The guide instructs him: “Cast to the right a bit,” or, “Cast three feet shorter.” If everything is done right - from tackle and fly pattern selection, to careful stalking — the angler is likely to receive a favorable response from the trout, and the games begin.
Because of the clarity of water, long, fine leaders must be used. Imagine fighting a four- or five-pound wild trout on 4x or even 5x leader! The hooked fish suddenly realizes the danger it’s in and scoots off for deep water or for those sunken roots nearby. The reel sings its melodious, metallic song. The angler may have to chase after the fish in order to recover precious line. If all goes well, the leader doesn’t break or the hook doesn’t come free, the angler’s capture is admired, photographed and released. He has every right to be proud of his angling accomplishment.
The scene repeats itself hundreds of times each season at Lake Brunner Lodge, located in brown trout country, on the South Island. Within a short drive, there are more than 20 rivers and streams available to guests. Some are larger rivers (like the Arnold), while others are small spring creeks offering insect-rich flows and surprisingly big, stocky brown trout. Many of these watersheds flow through thickly-forested lands which filter runoffs and keep streams clean and evenly flowing when at other areas rivers may be in flood or discolored.
Four to six-pound wild browns are commonly caught in these rivers. Part of the reason is that the professional guides know these rivers well, possess superb eyesight, and can coach an angler into the right position for that accurate presentation and necessary drag-free drift. It is critical that the angler possess at least the basic casting skills.
Lake Brunner Lodge’s special fishing is only part of the attraction. The central west coast is rich in unique trees and vegetation. A walk along the maintained pathways surrounding Lake Brunner, or up to the scenic waterfall behind the lodge will expose visitors to the wonders of this area. Within a few short hours, there’s a wide range of non-fishing sights to explore, from the Franz Joseph Glacier to the south, to the unique rock formations along the coastline to the north. The lodge overlooks picturesque Lake Brunner. A crackling fire warmly greets returning anglers in the lounge area where guests gather at day’s end. More solitude is available in the richly paneled library next door. And when dinner is announced, few hesitate. The gourmet meals at Brunner are among the high points of the lodge.
Individual rooms are all well-appointed, with heat, electricity and private bathrooms. The lodge is run in a casual, yet efficient manner by owners Ray Grubb and Marion van de Goes. Ray supervises the fishing. Marion is an acknowledged authority on New Zealand ecology and wildlife, as well as a graduate of the Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy.
Getting to Lake Brunner Lodge is easy. From Christchurch guests can drive right to the lodge, or fly into nearby Greymouth or Hokitika. Trips to Brunner can begin and end any day preferred, and last as long as guests want. And finally: New Zealand seasons are reversed from North America’s. Our winter is New Zealand’s summer and vice versa. What a great way to extend your trout fishing season! |
Species Available
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Brown Trout
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