Spend an instructive day sight-fishing wild brown and rainbow trout within an hour of Te Anau with guide Matt Butler. This guided trip combines walk-and-wade rivercraft, casting coaching and local water knowledge for anglers wanting measurable improvement.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cool dawn lifts off Lake Te Anau and the river ahead seems to breathe. You meet your guide at the accommodation, step into the van and drive less than an hour into broad gravel riverbeds and reed-lined braids. Matt Butler hunts visible trout—brown and rainbow—by sight, and his day is built around water you can read: seams that move, pockets that hold, riffles that dare you to place a fly precisely.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk 3–8 km over uneven, often wet terrain and stand in fast-moving water for periods.
Wildlife
History
Fiordland’s valleys were shaped by Pleistocene glaciers; European angling traditions took root in the 1800s while Māori used the waterways for food and travel.
Conservation
Follow catch-and-release guidance where advised and practice strict biosecurity—clean gear between waters to limit spread of didymo and other invasives.
Reserve your spot on the Expert Fly Fishing Adventures with Matt Butler from Te Anau today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive with a current fishing licence
A New Zealand angling licence is required—purchase online before the trip to avoid delays.
Dress for wet footing
Wear wading boots with good soles and quick-dry layers; expect to get wet below the knees while wading.
Practice low-light sight fishing
Early morning and dusk increase sighting chances—be ready for reduced visibility and slower, accurate casts.
Biosecurity between waters
Clean boots and nets before moving between rivers to prevent invasive species like didymo.
Waders or quick-dry pants
Keeps you dry and comfortable while wading shallow runs and holding position in cool water.
spring
Sturdy wading boots with studs
Provides traction on slick rocks and gravel bars common on South Island rivers.
fall
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and helps you spot holding fish and underwater structure.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Wind- and rain-proof layer for Fiordland’s changeable weather and cool river spray.
winter