One of the most famous fishing stories in New Zealand is that of Sir Bob Jones punching a journalist who interrupted his solitude. There is much to learn from this mildly violent and somewhat amusing episode.
Author: riversmithsnz
We are a family enthusiastic about New Zealand Rivers. As we learn, we will share our knowledge around fly fishing, recipes for trout, salmon and other fresh-water species, and highlight some of the incredible history of our beautiful waterways.
Our Mighty (Blue) Duck
New Zealand’s Blue Duck or Whio, is an endangered treasure who relies on our rivers as its home.
Fishing for Trout – the Strike!
Good strike technique helps make the most of sometimes limited opportunities. We share a few top tips that work (most of the time) for us.
Hatching a Legacy
Everything has a genesis, and so it was with trout in New Zealand. Today’s world-renowned fishery was created by keen Riversmiths not long after European colonisation, and hatcheries played a huge part in building stocks, as they still do.
What makes a Riversmith?
“Smith” has always been synonymous with craft – from blacksmiths to goldsmiths. Our craft is to understand and enjoy New Zealand’s fresh water history and ecosystems, and become closer to something really special.
Blackberry & Mint Relish
Just a small spoonful or two of this adds a splash of colour and taste to any game dish. It is also good paired with pan-fried trout.
Tongariro Trout with Wild Blackberries & Mint
Catching a trout on the Tongariro as a young chef and finding wild blackberries and mint on the riverbank encouraged me to enter a Taupō trout-cooking competition with this dish.
Filleting Trout or Salmon
A step-by-step guide to filleting and pin-boning trout or salmon (and other fish).
Lighten up your winter fishing
Fishing the Tongariro doesn’t need to be all about hiffing big heavy flies into heavy water.
HOW TO: Repair Waders
Sooner or later you’ll need to repair a hole, big or small, in your waders. Here is my recent experience on breathable waders.
Riversmiths NZ 