In this episode of The Flyfisher's Podcast, Peter Blackmore and Andrew explore how to plan and execute a successful DIY fly fishing holiday to New Zealand's South Island.

New Zealand's South Island is a mecca for fly fishing addicts, offering some of the most diverse and pristine waters in the world. From crystal-clear rivers and challenging backcountry streams to lush lakes and tarns, the South Island has it all. Whether you're an experienced flyfisher or a beginner, this podcast episode will help you navigate the best spots, essential gear, and travel tips for an unforgettable, cost effective, DIY fly fishing adventure.

In this episode of The Flyfisher's Podcast, Peter and Andrew explore how to plan and execute a successful DIY fly fishing holiday to New Zealand's North Island. After the boom of La Nina trout fishing in southeastern Australia, the season has returned to a more typical state, leaving many anglers finding their local fishing experiences less than exciting. If that’s you, it might be time to look across the ditch to New Zealand’s North Island, where trout fishing remains as abundant and world-class as ever. What's more, the 2024/5 season promises some of the best conditions in years.

While the idea of international travel might cause some anglers' wallets to tighten, a DIY fly-fishing trip to New Zealand can be surprisingly affordable—starting at just $2,500 for a week of chasing wild, trophy-sized brown and rainbow trout in some of the most pristine waters on the planet.

For more handy tips and tricks for the DIY North Island check out this article

In Far North Queensland, a saltwater fly fishing competition attracts passionate flyfishers from across Australia. This legendary event, presented by Australian Fly Fishing Outfitters, provided us with an incredible opportunity to experience it firsthand. What began as an intriguing adventure quickly became an unmissable annual highlight. For newcomers, the competition can be a bit intimidating, but the warm atmosphere fostered by organisers and participants ensures that everyone feels welcome and easily gets involved. In this informative episode, Peter & Andrew delve into the details of the scoring system and the challenge proceedings, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in participating, or who wants to learn about The Hinchinbrook Fly Fishing Challenge and what it means to the flyfishing community of Australia.

With the 2024/25 trout season kicking off, Andrew and Peter have tapped into expert insights to help you pinpoint the best flyfishing locations and techniques for the early season.

Each season presents unique conditions, and this year’s low water levels and some fisheries impacted by cormorants could pose new challenges. To get you prepared, we reached out to our guide network for the latest updates on how their catchments are shaping up.

We start with Finn McDowell, who’s been on the water in Tasmania for a month already. Finn shares his experiences and what’s exciting him this early in the season, including targeting tailing trout and aggressive streamer takes.

Next, we chat with Scott Xanthoulakis from Wilderness Fly Fishing about the North-East region—Melbourne’s most accessible river fishing area and a favourite among Melbourne based anglers.

Moving to Bright, we talk with Cam McGregor about the Ovens, Kiewa, and the exceptional small stream options he guides through River Escapes.

Finally, we head north to catch up with Jimmy Barwick of Snowy Valleys Flyfishing. Although the NSW trout season is still a month away, the warm weather is already having an effect. Jimmy gives us insights into drift boating the Tumut and exploring the Snowy Mountains' best trout fisheries.

During a recent trip to Cocos Keeling Islands, Andrew chats with saltwater flyfishing guru and guide, Rodney Collings.

Rodney splits his time between guiding far north Queensland and the crystal clear flats of Cocos. We find out more about Rodney's flyfishing origins and the world-class areas he guides. For more information on Rodney and AFO, head to www.australianflyfishingoutfitters.com

Simply observing the consistently high-ranked competitive flyfishers reveals there are subtleties to streamer fishing that significantly enhance one's catch rate.

As well as deciphering the gear and the flies, Craig explains the 5 basic things we can do during the retrieve, that will transform anyoneinto a lethal streamer angler.

As the river season draws to a close, we shift our focus to the lakes. To fill us in on which lakes are in good shape, we chat with Philip Weigall and get the good oil.

Trout anglers in the southeastern region of Australia may have recently observed a downturn in fishing quality, coupled with white bird droppings coating the rocks near their beloved streams. The return of cormorants has undoubtedly left its mark on the fishing scene in recent months. In order to dissect this situation and provide valuable insights, we sat with Philip Weigall. While these avian visitors may not be our favourite companions, their presence seems to be a lasting one. Fortunately, there are strategies you can employ to catch fish amidst the influx of these persistent birds.

Autumn presents anglers with some of the most rewarding opportunities in flyfishing, but also presents unique challenges. Whether you're targeting delicate sippers, or trying to deal with low flows, Philip shares invaluable tips to ensure you make the most of the river season's closing moments.

When we caught wind that Scott Fly Rod president Jim Bartschi was in New Zealand for the launch of their new Session series, we got excited and gave him a call to find out more.

Jim is a global flyfishing identity and is well respected in the trade as a great guy and gifted rod designer.

We reveal that the Session is a rod designed for everyone fishing freshwater. Bucking the trend of eyewateringly high prices, the Session is built to the highest standard, at a palatable price.

There's real passion behind the Scott fly rod family and this new model. Enjoy!