Most frequent comment on departure..... "I'm going to work on my casting techniques before I come back next time!" Clear, water, and big, wary fish combine to up the ante on the casting stakes. Those who have fished here before will tell you that you will encounter fewer but much bigger fish, and that you will need to cast further than you've ever cast before! 
As guides, perhaps the most common challenge we have is coaching clients to extend their casting ability - Distance - consistently making those 60-70 ft casts Accuracy - dropping the fly on the mark, without "lining" the fish, or catching stream-side vegetation. Presentation - a graceful, even delicate placement of the fly on the water - preferably not a slam-dunk.... Speed - getting it out there promptly, before the fish moves on. Efficiency - maximum of 2 false casts - this reduces chances of excessive movement spooking fish, and prevents OOS/RSI. A full day on the water will see you make hundreds of casts - the fewer false casts, the less fatigue and the more enjoyment. Shooting Line - most people seriously underestimate how far line will shoot with good technique. Picking up Line - most people seriously underestimate much line can be lifted off the water with good technique, and instead retrieve too much, only to have to false cast it all back out again... Dealing with Wind - most afternoon we will have a breeze blowing in off the sea, right up into the mountain valleys. High line speed and tight loops make it easy/easier.
Fishing from a drift boat is a new experience for many guests, and imposes special consideration of casting techniques - mainly from a safety perspective, with other people in close proximity! Keeping the back cast high, crisp and straight is comforting for all concerned.... Recommendation: If you are a novice/intermediate fly caster, that you seriously consider attending a casting clinic before visiting NZ to fish. This will maximise your fishing opportunities while you are here, and will be an investment that will stand you in good stead anywhere else in the world as well. Everything else being equal, the best casters catch the most fish! “To fish fine, and far off is the first and principle rule for trout angling.” | - Charles Cotton |
 | “Master Cast” Fly Casting School is a joint project between Ben Kemp & Tony Gutberlet, professional fishing guides based on the West Coast of the South Island. Each has a life-time of flyfishing experience in local waters, and years of professional guiding experience. |
 | Sponsored & endorsed by | 
| "New Zealand's premier rods & first choice of Master Cast guides & instructors!" |
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"Guide to NZ Fishing" Menu - - - - - - - - - - - - - |  |  |  | | |  Sight Fishing
This unique fishing technique is the specialty of New Zealand's premier fly fishing guides!
Equipment
Outline of clothing and accessories required to make the most of your NZ fishing vacation.. Fly Selection
A list of popular flies suited to our local conditions. FAQ's
This page contains the answers to most of the questions you might want to ask... Drift Boat Fishing
Drift boats are the answer to difficult bank access, and provide a safe & comfortable fly fishing platform. Seasons
You can check out the West Coast's seasonal variables and conditions you might encounter at differing times of year. Access
Brief outline of angler's access rights to NZ lake, river and stream margins. Weather
The West Coast is noted for its rain forests -and the weather plays a significant part in the day to day fishing opportunities. References
This page provides personal comments (and contact information) from previous guests on their experience with us.
The Angling Report
"Serving the Angler Who Travels" This influential web site produces a fine newsletter on international fishing destinations, and has an extensive trip report database - check US out there for independent comments on our guiding services, meals and accommodation! See reports in issues for June 2003, Vol. 16 No.6, and Dec 2002, Vol. 15 No.12 Fishing Links
Links to international fishing sites, guides, lodge, rod & reel manufacturers etc. NZ Fishing Books
List of the best NZ fishing books, all available online, with descriptions example pages etc. | |  |  |  |
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