Rotorua Fly Fishing Guide | Ollie Bassett Fly Fishing
Experience some of New Zealand's best trout fishing with Ollie Bassett, a three-time New Zealand National Fly Fishing Champion (2024, 2025 & 2026). Based in Rotorua, Ollie is a professional fly fishing guide offering year-round guided fly fishing trips for wild brown and rainbow trout which average 2 -5 pounds and reach trophy sizes (10 pounds), helping anglers of all skill levels improve their success on the water.
Fly Fishing in Rotorua
Rotorua offers some of New Zealand's best trout fishing, with opportunities to target wild brown and rainbow trout throughout the year which can reach trophy sizes. Ollie Bassett tailors every trip to the season, water conditions and angler experience level.
October, November and December offer fantastic fly fishing for trout around the edges of Lake Rotorua and in smaller local streams. Lake edge 'flats' fly fishing is an exciting way to sight fish trophy brown trout which congregate in the clear shallow water to attack small baitfish. December also marks the opening of the famous Lake Rotorua tributary streams (such as the Ngongataha and Waiteti) where trout have been rested for several months during the winter closed season.
January and February mark the height of the New Zealand summer with the surface temperatures of Lake Rotorua warming dramatically, driving trout in search of cooler water. Rotorua is a shallow lake and so trout are drawn in huge numbers to the cold and clear spring fed waters of the lakes tributaries. The fishing can be fantastic throughout this period with high catch rates and the chance to see impressive numbers of large wild trout stacked into small areas.
March, April & May mark the arrival of autumn and the peak of the brown trout spawning run from Lake Rotorua into local tributary streams. Autumn offers the best chance to target wild trophy trout up to 30 inches in streams barely ten foot in width. Sight fishing for these huge trout is incredibly exciting and unique experience.
June to September is rainbow trout time in the Rotorua streams. Large numbers of wild rainbow trout run the rivers from Lake Rotorua and can be caught in high numbers, particularly after rain. Euro nymphing is particularly effective, although other techniques can work well. Trophy brown trout can also be targeted.
What's included in a guided fly fishing trip?
Use of high quality waders, boots, and other fly fishing equipment is included in all guided trips. Picnic lunch and refreshments are provided on full day trips.
What options are available?
Ollie offers full day, half day (~ 4.5 hours) and multi day fly fishing guided trips.
Do I need to bring my own fly fishing equipment?
No. High-quality fly fishing equipment is available for clients to use, including rods, reels, Patagonia waders and Patagonia boots. Many anglers choose to travel light if visiting from abroad, while others prefer to bring and use their own equipment. Ollie is happy to accommodate either option.
Do I need fly fishing experience?
No. Guided trips with Ollie are suitable for complete beginners through to highly experienced anglers. Whether you're looking to catch your first trout, refine advanced techniques such as Euro nymphing, or want to sight fish for trophy brown trout, Ollie will tailor the day to your skill level.
What should I bring on a guided trip?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and any personal items you may need during the day. Weather conditions can change quickly, so dressing in layers and bringing a rain jacket is advised.
Can you provide transport?
Pick-up and drop-off can be arranged from Rotorua or Tauranga for trips in the area. Please enquire when booking if transport is required.
Do I need a fishing license?
To fly fish in Rotorua you will need a Fish and Game New Zealand license. These are not included with the booking, and can be purchased separately through the Fish and Game New Zealand website, with non resident day licenses currently costing $38 NZD.
Can I book a multi-day fly fishing trip?
Yes. In addition to half-day and full-day guided trips, Ollie offers multi-day fly fishing experiences tailored to your goals, experience level and travel plans. Multi-day road trips can explore a variety of rivers, streams and lakes across Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, Taupō and the wider central north island.
Why choose a fly fishing trip to Rotorua?
Rotorua is one of New Zealand's best trout fishing destinations, with some of the highest catch rates and largest trout anywhere in the New Zealand. Rotorua's location only two and half hours south of Auckland makes it a great destination for those visiting New Zealand for a short time. It has a wide array of accommodation, dining options and famous tourism activities including Maōri cultural experiences and thermal baths to explore. For those traveling on cruise ships to Tauranga, Rotorua offers world class fly fishing only one hour away, with Ollie able to pick you up and drop you off at the dock.
