It took me far too long to join my local Wellington Flyfishers Club.

On reflection it was because I imagined I would be out of place as a relative newbie amongst the combined experience and skill of club members. But this thinking is the antithesis of what the club is about. In fact, the less experience you have the more important it is to join – now!

The list of reasons not to join is short, those to join is substantial. Consider these:

Learn from centuries of experience

Consider a room full of people, each with a decade or four of experience – it adds up quickly. Whatever you need to know, there will be someone who knows it.

Gain local knowledge

This is especially useful if you’ve just moved into the area. Our club also advocates for access to a local river which runs through parcels of private land. Listen closely for clues on secret spots. For Wellington, that ‘local’ experience includes important fishing regions like Wairarapa, Hawkes Bay and Taupo.

Be among like-minded souls

Perhaps your family and friends don’t quite ‘get’ your fishing fanaticism. You’re amongst fishing friends here. Some members seldom fish anymore but still enjoy the camaraderie of the monthly meeting.

Join on-stream days

Our club president and local legend Strato offers tutelage on local waters for those just starting out. I joined one after not being sure on access points and favoured spots on a local river – which has now become a favourite!

And club trips further field

Club members join forces to explore favourite spots farther afield than the local waters – Rangitikei, Tongariro, Mohaka…

Learn and improve your fly tying

Strato (I told you he was a legend) also runs monthly fly-tying lessons. Materials are sponsored by another member.

Enjoy retail discounts

Any fisher will admit, quietly, that costs can add up a little. Our local Hunting & Fishing store offers a discount to club members. Which means you can buy more!

Support the next generation

Clubs are often key to maintaining local trout ponds, running family event and the like. The Wellington club manages the Capital Trout Centre, offering a chance for kids to catch a rainbow trout, with several open days each year, school groups and club member family events – think kids’ birthday parties – in the mix.

We’ve also noticed some younger members coming along, supported by other family members. They hold the keys to our fishing future.

So, what are you waiting for? Head along to the next club meeting and see what it’s all about.

Canterbury Fishing Club

Tony is a keen member of the club, and often calls me, astounded with the things he’s learned. He loves the openness of the experienced members, the ethos of sharing knowledge, good buggers all round he reckons.

The Club runs ‘tables of learning’ where the members can chose the skill and knowledge they want to partake in at each evening. Casting lessons are held pre meetings throughout the ‘Daylight Saving’ summer season.

There is also a steady stream of presentations from the very best flyfishers from throughout New Zealand. The committee are a great team that organise real variety. As good as it could be!

I’m pretty sure the club are fans of Tony’s cooking too. Check out this Himalayan Salmon or Trout Curry he demonstrated and served at an event a while back.

In another region? You can go to The New Zealand Federation of Freshwater Anglers (NZFFA)
website and find one near you.