Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Waikato

The Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Waikato region is well known for the volcanic lakes and the river fishing it offers.

Anglers are spoilt for choice with fly fishing available on the many streams and rivers, such as the world famous Rangitaiki river or fish from a boat on one of the lakes the region boasts. Boat fishing can be a very productive method and often a few hours are all that is needed to get a good catch.

Fabled double figure (10lb+) rainbows are not an uncommon capture in the Rotorua lakes and are eagerly targeted by anglers during the later parts of the fishing year in autumn/fall.

The wildness region of the Urewera Mountains gives birth to some wonderful fishing rivers such as the Waiau. This is a very popular tourist area and offers a great all-year-round fishery.

All the members listed on this web site have the following vital accreditations:

  • Current  first aid certificate
  • DOC Concession to guide on the DOC estate
  • Audited Health & Safety Plan
  • Public liability insurance

Miles Rushmer

Miles Rushmer operates out of the sunny Bay of Plenty region, on the North Island, where he has developed a global reputation as a master trophy guide - particularly for double-digit browns. The region encompasses such famous waters as Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga and the wilds of East Cape. Featuring in numerous books, movies and magazines around the World is testimony to the thrilling sight fishing adventures he provides and the sheer quality of the waters he works with. Guide to such legends as Sir Billy Connolly, and the current Prime Ministers husband, is also testimony to the professionalism and service Miles provides. From single day trophy stream and lake experiences, to multi-day and helicopter tours covering numerous rivers and streams in the iconic Bay of Plenty region. There is something for everyone, beginners and experienced alike. With a distinct knack for hosting, and an infectious personality, a trip with Miles will be one you remember for a lifetime. Monster trout in crystal clear small spring creeks? What are you waiting for! 

Contact Miles Rushmer

John Hamill

John has been offering guided fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout on the lakes, rivers and streams of the central North Island from Rotorua since 1996. Cruise and Fish Rotorua offer options from ½ day to multi day backcountry Heli fishing.
Whether you are a novice or experienced angler we have an option to access some of the best of the central North Island's fly fishing. For a boat option check out our lake option here:
Contact John at Cruise and Fish Rotorua. T: +64 21 951 959 or visit our website.

Contact John Hamill

Julian Danby

Julian Danby operates Rotorua Trout Guide Limited guiding services. Julian offers guided fly fishing trips to the fantastic streams and lake systems in abundance throughout the region. The world famous and highly regarded fisheries surrounding Rotorua  is a necessary part of any serious trout fisherman’s travel itinerary to New Zealand yet so often overlooked by overseas anglers. We specialise in chasing trophy brown trout in the local spring creeks, quality dry fly fishing, heli-fishing wilderness adventures and saltwater fly fishing for kingfish.Julian can be contacted on +64 27 339 7468 

Contact Julian Danby

Peter Hill

Peter lives at the base of the Te Urewera National Park in the Galatea, Murupara region. With this being his home he has a wide knowledge of rivers and streams that are all under an hours drive. He has lived for fishing and hunting all his life, specializing in nymph and dry fly, also land based streamer fishing in lakes.
He can offer his clients the following:

  • Drive to upper tributaries to walk and  sight fish for good Rainbows and Browns with dry fly and nymph
  • Shore walk a beautiful Lake and streamer fish for smelting Rainbows
  • Float down the spectacular Rangitaiki River in  his certified raft and fish water that can not be accessed on foot and have a great wilderness experience with good numbers of wild trout. (This is a great option for the physically impaired)
  • Helicopter into very remote scenic Rivers in the heart of the Te Urewera National Park.

Peter has the ability and patience to teach all levels and abilities, whether it is fly or spin fishing.

Contact Peter Hill