New Zealand - Christiaan Pretorius
South Island, New Zealand is one of the world's premier fly fishing destinations, offering wild populations of trophy brown and rainbow trout that commonly reach 3-5 pounds with many exceeding 8-10 pounds in crystal-clear, pristine rivers that allow for exceptional sight-fishing opportunities. From the gin-clear spring-fed waters of the east coast rivers like the Mataura and Clutha, to the powerful alpine streams flowing from the Southern Alps, to the intimate spring creeks of Central Otago, anglers fish beneath snow-capped peaks, through native beech forests, and across dramatic tussock-covered high country with minimal fishing pressure and genuine wilderness solitude. This is my go to gear list to be ready for anything the South Island might throw at you.
Christiaan Pretorius's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
Products in this list
- 7X Single-Hand Rod by Loop Tackle — The 7X single-hand fly rod is for anglers seeking the perfect balance of power, finesse, and responsiveness.
- Z1 Single-Hand Rod by Loop Tackle — The Z1 single-hand fly rod is built for anglers who demand maximum performance in the toughest conditions. Crafted with high-modulus nano graphene carbon fibre, this rod delivers exceptional power, precision, and durability.
- Finesse Trout II by Cortland — Finesse Trout II was designed for dry flies and swinging wets. The extended body allows the angler to easily mend and adjust drifts in complex currents. The long front taper allows for a soft presentation. Built a half line size heavy to quickly load modern fast action rods.
- 444 Peach by Cortland — 444 Peach line has set a standard for durability and all around performance for over 50 years.
- Ultra Premium Fluorocarbon Tippet by Cortland — With extensive research, development and field testing, we are proud to announce the most premium Fluorocarbon trout tippet offering on the market.
- COTW: Opti Reel #5 Dryfly, Right, Arctic Blue by Loop Tackle — A large arbour icon, reimagined in nature-inspired finishes. The latest chapter in our storied Opti series blends wild expression with the signature precision and performance that you’ve come to expect from the standard-bearer in modern fly reel design.
- COTW: Opti Reel #5 Dryfly, Right, Aurora Turquoise by Loop Tackle — A large arbour icon, reimagined in nature-inspired finishes.
The latest chapter in our storied Opti series blends wild expression with the signature precision and performance that you’ve come to expect from the standard-bearer in modern fly reel design.
- Loggerhead Hoodie - Swamp Country by Howler Brothers — The Loggerhead Hoodie is perfect for days when you have to stand in the full glory of the sun and need to pack your own shade. Features include the UPF 35 protection (we call it “solarshieldability”), a full hood, 100% polyester fabric (with 50% recycled content), microfiber lined stash pocket and reinforced front kangaroo pocket.
