Welcome to The Weekly Five, Issue 32.
New Zealand is gearing up for a new season starting October 1. The 2025/2026 NZ Fishing Licences can be purchased online and the new regulations are available for all to view.
Lake Otamangakau opened early on 1 September for this season, and will close during February – typically its hottest month. This novel and insightful approach from DoC, the conservators of the Taupo fishing region, is commended. I float-tubed ‘the Big O’ solidly for a decade in the ‘90s when fish in excess of 12lb were regularly landed. It’s a special place.
Tahi supervises fishing on Lake Otamangakau, Christmas Day, 2010.
Now in its 39th year, the annual Jackson Hole One Fly on the legendary Snake River and South Fork was held on 4-7th September. Forty teams of four anglers took part in this invitation-only tournament. The One Fly event has one cardinal rule: you get only one pattern per day, so choose your fly wisely. Lose it, and your scoring day is done. It’s a wonderful celebration of fly fishing with an impressive conservation backbone.
There has only ever been one other official One Fly event – held in New Zealand from 1994 to 2007 in Nelson – sanctioned by the Jackson Hole Board and sponsored by international clothing retailer, Rodd & Gunn. Will it ever return to the South Island?
Back in the office, we’ve been bingeing Joe Cermele’s often hilarious podcast Cut & Retie (Spotify link) and recommend you do too. Joe, together with co-host Miles Nolte, are well-known for their long-running Bent podcast and Das Boat video series, produced whilst working at Meateater. #cutandretie
Winston is launching a new series of fast action Air 2 5-piece fly rods next Monday – featuring 4wt, 5wt & 6wts, all 9ft. Great for travelers!
Aitutaki Hosted Trip, August 16-23, 2026
Your friendly Southflyfisher editor will be in Aitutaki from August 16-23, 2026 hosting this Cook Islands fly fishing adventure. Rods are strictly limited to 6 anglers. Two US anglers have confirmed already. Contact Isolation Outfitters to work through logistics and register your interest.
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