Visiting New Zealand is in the dreams of every fly fisher. Traveling there for the first time doesn’t relieve the itch. In fact, you can’t wait to get back!

Not an easy feat, to be honest, as money and spare time are hurdles difficult to overcome.

But, when more than a year ago I received an invitation from Chris Dore for some fishing in the South Island, I decided that it was time to jump those hurdles. So almost two years after my first trip to the sight-fishing paradise, I was there again.

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Chris’ knowledge of his waters is encyclopedic (if you are planning a visit to NZ and want a guide don’t think twice, this is your man!), so we took advantage of his advice.

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So there we go!

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New Zealand fishing isn’t about the numbers (although there were some memorable days in that regard); definitely it is about the size of the trout, but also about the pristine landscape and, above all, the sense of solitude. Specially the latter. Something almost impossible to experience in Europe anymore.

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Now, back at home, it is time for the memories… and for dreaming of New Zealand again!

Thanks to Chris and Varo for their company and advice: I have learnt a lot.

And last but not least, thanks to the trout that were kind enough of coming to the net, and specially to those that avoided it due to my clumsiness —every one of them taught me a lesson.

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