Expert Fly Fishing Adventures with Matt Butler from Te Anau

If you’ve ever dreamed of casting your line in the pristine waters of New Zealand’s South Island, this guided fly fishing tour with Matt Butler might just be the trip you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally been on this exact adventure, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, expert-led experience in some of the most beautiful river settings near Te Anau.

What draws us in are the focus on sight fishing for wild Brown and Rainbow Trout, the personalized coaching that promises to improve your technique, and the scenic landscapes that serve as the backdrop for every cast. Plus, the fact that the trip is designed as a private experience for up to two people ensures a tailored, less rushed outing. One thing to consider is the cost, which might seem steep for some travelers, but given the inclusions and expertise involved, it appears to be good value for those serious about fly fishing.

This tour is especially suitable for anglers who want to sharpen their skills, enjoy a scenic day on the river, or simply experience New Zealand’s renowned fly fishing spots with a guide who truly knows the waters. It’s perfect for couples, solo anglers, or small groups seeking a focused, personalized adventure. If you’re after a laid-back yet skill-building day in stunning surroundings, this tour fits the bill.

Good To Know

• Expert Guidance: Matt Butler’s 20+ years of experience ensures you’re in capable hands.
• Focus on Sight Fishing: Targets wild Brown and Rainbow Trout, perfect for those wanting to see their catch.
• Skill Improvement: Emphasis on casting, technique, and hookup success makes this a valuable learning experience.
• Scenic Location: Close to Te Anau, within an hour’s drive, with a variety of river options based on conditions.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes rods, reels, flies, and lunch—hassle-free for visitors.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, offering personalized attention and guidance.

👉 See our pick of the 3 Best Guided Tours In Te Anau

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This 8-hour private fly fishing tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Te Anau around 9:00 am, offering a convenient start to your day. From there, Matt Butler, who has a reputation for knowing the water like the back of his hand, will drive you to the best fishing spot based on the day’s conditions. The journey is about an hour, but the real highlight begins once you arrive at the river.

Once on the water, you’ll spend your time walking and wading along the riverbanks, casting for wild trout in crystal-clear waters. The focus is sight fishing, meaning you’re actively looking for fish to target, rather than blind casting. This provides a more engaging and rewarding experience—”Matt is constantly surveying the water,” as one reviewer noted, trying different flies until he finds what works.

What Makes the Water Special?

The rivers near Te Anau are renowned for their healthy populations of Brown and Rainbow Trout, and the clear waters provide perfect conditions for sight fishing. The landscape around these streams is stunning, with lush greenery, rugged hills, and often a peaceful, almost untouched atmosphere. Such scenery enhances the fishing experience, making every catch and near-miss feel more memorable.

The Guide: Matt Butler

With over 20 years of guiding experience, Matt is clearly passionate about his craft. One reviewer mentions, “Matt knew the water like the back of his hand,” and his constant scouting and fly selection demonstrate a high level of expertise. His approach focuses on technique improvement, giving you tips and coaching that will last well beyond the trip. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, Matt’s guidance aims to leave you a better fisherman.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour covers fishing rods, reels, and flies, so you don’t need to worry about equipment. A provided lunch helps fuel your day on the river. However, you will need to bring footwear and appropriate clothing suited for wading and outdoor activity, plus a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

An additional fee of NZ$35 per person applies for government charges, which is typical for fishing permits in New Zealand. The tour’s private nature ensures you won’t be sharing your guide’s attention with strangers, creating a more relaxed and immersive environment.

The Practicalities

Start time is 9:00 am, and the tour’s flexibility based on weather and river conditions means your day can adapt to ensure the best fishing. Cancellation policies are flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance—and poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refund.

Authenticity and Reviews

While the tour has only one detailed review, it’s a glowing one—“Matt is the best in the Southwest,” and the experience was perfect for a honeymoon trip. The review highlights Matt’s expert knowledge and his ability to constantly adjust flies and tactics, which resonates with the focus on fish spotting and technique. It’s clear that participants leave feeling more confident and skilled.

The Value of this Guided Fly Fishing Tour

Considering the price of $868.80 for a full day, the value depends heavily on your expectations. For anglers eager to improve their skills, enjoy scenic rivers, and benefit from the guidance of someone who knows these waters intimately, it’s a strong investment. The inclusions—gear, flies, and lunch—remove many logistical worries, allowing you to focus on the fishing.

Compared to fishing independently, having a guide like Matt can dramatically increase success rates, especially in sight fishing environments where local knowledge is key. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized coaching that’s hard to match in larger, less tailored trips.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for serious fly fishermen or women who want to learn from an expert, or those who simply want a relaxing day in nature surrounded by beautiful scenery. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a genuine, hands-on fishing experience close to Te Anau. Couples or small groups looking for a private, guided day with a focus on skill-building will find this especially appealing.

It’s also suitable for moderate physical fitness levels, as some walking and wading are involved, but it’s not overly strenuous. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to learn the ropes or an experienced angler honing your technique, Matt’s personalized coaching makes this a flexible option.

The Sum Up

This guided fly fishing tour with Matt Butler offers a fantastic blend of expert guidance, scenic beauty, and practical skill development. With a focus on sight fishing for native trout in some of the most beautiful river settings near Te Anau, it’s a great choice for anglers who want to improve or simply enjoy a day of fishing in New Zealand’s stunning landscape.

The personalized approach, combined with all gear and a delicious lunch, makes this a hassle-free option that maximizes your chances of success and enjoyment. While the price might be on the higher side for some, the quality of instruction and the chance to fish alongside a seasoned guide make it worth considering for those serious about fly fishing.

In short, if you’re after a day in nature with a focus on learning and catching trout, this tour hits all the right notes. Just remember to pack your Wellingtons or waders and bring your enthusiasm — the water and wildlife await.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the guide offers pickup from your accommodation in Te Anau, making the start of your day easy and hassle-free.

What should I bring?
You should bring your own footwear and clothing suitable for wading and outdoor activity, as these are not included.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing plenty of time for fishing, coaching, and enjoying the scenery.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to two people, ensuring personalized attention from Matt.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a government fee of NZ$35 per person applies, payable on the day.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely—while the focus is on skill improvement, beginners are welcome and will benefit from Matt’s coaching.

This guided fly fishing adventure offers a rewarding and well-rounded experience for those eager to fish in New Zealand’s spectacular rivers while sharpening their skills with a knowledgeable guide.