Taranaki Region

Location

Tekapo Region, Central South Island

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Fly Fishing Paradise in New Zealand’s Tekapo Region

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, the Tekapo Region is a breathtaking destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear mountain rivers and streams winding through pristine alpine landscapes, this area offers an unparalleled setting for anglers of all skill levels. Whether pursuing wild Brown Trout or Rainbow Trout, visitors are treated to an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most stunning natural environments.

Pristine Waters & Thriving Trout Populations

The Tekapo Region is renowned for its exceptionally clear waters, a result of natural filtration from rocky substrates and surrounding vegetation. These conditions create an ideal habitat for trout, allowing them to flourish in both size and numbers. As you wade into these tranquil rivers, you’ll witness the harmony of New Zealand’s vibrant ecosystems, where every cast feels like an intimate encounter with untouched wilderness.

The Thrill of Sight Fishing

Tekapo Region, Central South Island

One of the region’s greatest draws is sight fishing, a technique that adds an exhilarating visual dimension to fly fishing. The water’s remarkable clarity offers a window into the underwater world, where Brown and Rainbow Trout glide effortlessly through the currents. Observing these majestic fish in their natural habitat—darting among rocks, feeding, and occasionally striking your fly—makes for an unforgettable angling experience.

More Than Just Fishing

Fly fishing in the Tekapo Region transcends sport—it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with nature. Amid the serene beauty of alpine valleys and untouched rivers, time seems to slow. Whether you’re casting a line or simply soaking in the scenery, the region invites moments of reflection and pure appreciation for its unspoiled splendor.

Target Species

While other fish may inhabit these waters, the Tekapo Region is best known for its thriving populations of:

  • Brown Trout
  • Rainbow Trout

For anglers seeking adventure, tranquility, and world-class fishing, the Tekapo Region stands as a must-visit destination.

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Location

La Saâne

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La Saâne, France 🇫🇷: Serenity and Wild Trout Between the Cows

The Saâne is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. Tucked away in the French countryside, this beautiful river offers a serene escape with its wild trout population—primarily brown trout, though lucky anglers might encounter sea trout or even salmon, as the river flows into the sea at Quiberville, allowing fish to migrate.

Fishing Beats

We focus on two excellent stretches:

  1. South of Longueil (just north of Camping de la Vallée)
  2. Saâne-Saint-Just (further downstream)

Both are fly fishing only and strictly catch-and-release, ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

License Requirements

Obtaining a fishing license in France has become simpler for tourists. You can purchase a holiday license (valid for one week) online at cartedepeche.fr for around €34 (2023). When selecting your license, choose Dieppe (76200) as the department. While this license covers most waters, always verify local regulations.

Bank Fishing & Wading

Most fishing can be done from the bank, but wading is permitted when water levels are low. However, the trout here are wild and easily spooked—move slowly and observe carefully.

Both beats are set in meadows grazed by cows. While the cattle are generally docile (Pascal, a local angler, has fished here for years without issue), always be respectful and cautious around them.

Wild Trout & Tactics

The Saâne’s trout are highly sensitive, so stealth is key. Before casting:

  • Observe for rising fish.
  • Approach carefully from a distance.
  • If no fish are surfacing, try nymphing with patterns like a Hare’s Ear or Pheasant Tail.

Recommended Flies

  • Mayflies (best in May/June)
  • Sedges & Caddis imitations (when fish are rising but no mayflies are present)
  • Pascal’s secret weapon: A Red Tag

Fish Species

While other species may inhabit the area, the Saâne is primarily known for:

  • Brown Trout
  • Sea Trout (rare but possible)

Final Tip

A special thanks to Pascal, a local expert, for sharing his knowledge. With patience and the right approach, the Saâne offers a rewarding fly fishing experience—quiet, unspoiled, and full of surprises.

La Saâne

(Map locations for the beats are available on this page.)

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Location

The River Wye

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The River Wye: A Premier Fly Fishing Destination in Wales

Introduction

The River Wye is one of Wales’ most iconic rivers, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, diverse fish species, and breathtaking scenery. Stretching over 200 miles, it attracts fly fishers worldwide, offering exceptional opportunities for wild brown trout, grayling, salmon, and more.

Geography and Tributaries

The River Wye originates in the Cambrian Mountains of Wales and flows through Powys, Herefordshire, and Monmouthshire before merging with the River Severn. Key tributaries—such as the River Lugg, River Arrow, and River Monnow—expand the fishing opportunities, particularly for grayling and wild brown trout.

Notable Fishing Beats

The river is divided into over 60 distinct fishing beats, each with unique characteristics:

  1. Upper Wye

    • Best for wild brown trout (up to 3 lbs) and grayling.
    • Summer: Dry flies and nymphs. Winter: Streamers.

  2. Hay-on-Wye

    • Picturesque stretch with grayling, brown trout, and summer sea trout runs.

  3. Builth Wells

    • Prime for salmon and large sea trout (summer/fall).
    • Wider sections suit wet flies and tubes.

  4. Rhayader

    • Fast rapids and deep pools challenge anglers targeting brown trout and grayling.

  5. Lower Wye

    • Most heavily fished; ideal for salmon, sea trout, and brown trout.
    • Slow-moving waters accommodate large flies and tubes.

Target Species

The Wye supports a rich variety of fish:

  • Wild Brown Trout: Smaller (1–2 lbs) but plentiful.
  • Grayling: Often large (up to 3 lbs).
  • Salmon: Runs from late November through fall.
  • Sea Trout: Best in summer.
  • Other Species: Barbel, chub, pike, and perch add diversity.

The River Wye

Fly Fishing Techniques

  • Summer: Dry flies (mayfly, caddis, stonefly imitations).
  • Winter: Streamers and nymphing (strike indicators with 2–3 nymphs).
  • Adapt to Conditions: Avoid wading during high water; fish from banks instead.

Licenses and Regulations

Fishing rules vary by season and beat. Always check local regulations before your trip. For details, visit:
Fishing Passport UK – Wye Regulations.

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Location

River Lesse in Lesse

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Fly Fishing on the Lesse River in Belgium’s Ardennes

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, the Lesse River offers a magnificent fly fishing experience. Its clear waters, surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, create a serene backdrop for anglers. The river is home to brown trout and chub, making it an ideal destination for light fly fishing.

River Lesse in Lesse

Fishing Conditions & Techniques

The Lesse is highly wadeable, with stretches suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. Effective fly patterns include:

  • Dry flies
  • Nymphs
  • Streamers (even small trout may strike large Wooly Buggers!)

Seasonal variations in water levels, influenced by rainfall, can affect wading difficulty.

Access Points & Wading Tips

The best starting point is the village of Lesse, where you can park near a BBQ area and prepare your gear. From there:

  • Upstream (left): Easier wading, with consistent depth.
  • Downstream (right): More challenging—deeper sections and secluded riffles. Be cautious to avoid spooking fish.

Note: Google Maps incorrectly labels the river as "Lomme" near Lesse—it is, in fact, the Lesse.

Fishing Licenses

To fish the designated stretch (see map), you need:

  1. A Wallonia regional fishing license (required for all fishing in Wallonia).
  2. A local license from Amicale Des Pecheurs de Redu (€5/day or €25/year).
    • Obtain it by contacting Manuel via email (details here).
    • The website is in French, but Google Translate works well for communication.

Exploring Other Stretches & Rivers

For other parts of the Lesse and nearby rivers:

  • Some small sections only require the Wallonia license, but these are often crowded picnic areas.
  • Private stretches may require contacting local associations (e.g., FHPSBL or Maison de la Pêche).
  • Language tip: Most information is in French—use Google Translate for emails and websites.

Target Species

While other fish may inhabit the area, this stretch is best known for:

  • Brown trout
  • Chub

Final Tips

  • Wading caution: The riverbed is rocky—watch your step.
  • Timing: Early mornings or evenings are ideal, especially in summer when crowds thin and insect activity peaks.

With its stunning scenery and accessible fishing, the Lesse River is a hidden gem in the Belgian Ardennes. Tight lines!

Location

Oklahoma Lower Illinois River

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Fly Fishing on Oklahoma’s Lower Illinois River

Overview

The Lower Illinois River in Oklahoma offers year-round fly fishing for a diverse range of species, including:

  • Striped bass
  • Rainbow trout
  • Smallmouth bass
  • Buffalo
  • Catfish

The river’s natural beauty and productive waters make it ideal for both casual anglers and serious fishermen. Notably, the Lower Illinois has produced multiple fishing records, including a 47.8 lb striped bass, as well as impressive rainbow trout and redhorse catches.

Trout Fishing Details

Stocking & Designated Area

  • Year-round trout stocking ensures consistent fishing opportunities.
  • A 7.75-mile designated trout area stretches from Tenkiller Ferry Dam to the U.S. 64 bridge near Gore (Sequoyah County).

Access Points & Facilities

  1. Simp and Helen Watts Management Unit

    • Provides public access to ~1 mile of trout stream and 320 acres of hunting land.
    • Located 4 miles north of Gore (State Highway 100 → County Road E0990).
    • Walk-in access only; designated parking available.

  2. Additional Access Points

    • Dam Pool: Prime trout spot, even during high power generation.
    • River Road Public Access Area: ~6 miles downstream from the dam.
    • Gore Landing Public Access Area: Offers camping and boat ramps.

(See map for exact locations.)

Fishing Regulations

General Trout Rules

  • Rainbow trout: Daily limit of 6 (no minimum size).

    • Oklahoma Lower Illinois River

  • Brown trout: Daily limit of 1 (minimum 20 inches).
  • Special Section (USGS gauge to Gravel Pit Road):
    • 1 trout/day, minimum 20 inches.

Simp and Helen Watts Unit Rules

  • Artificial flies/lures only; barbless hooks required for trout.
  • Non-trout species:
    • Natural bait allowed with single barbed hooks (size 3/0 or larger).
    • Artificial baits/treble hooks permitted (size 3/0+).

Target Species

While the river hosts many fish, the primary species include:

  • Brown trout
  • Rainbow trout
  • Striped bass
  • Largemouth bass

Why Fish Here?

  • Reliable year-round trout stocking.
  • Multiple access points with varied facilities.
  • Record-breaking potential for trophy fish.
  • Scenic, natural environment ideal for fly fishing.

(For detailed maps and updates, check local resources.)

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