The Weekly Five - 33

Two must-see fly fishing films

Sep 19, 2025

The Weekly Five, Issue 33 is out – and we’re off to the movies with two solid fly fishing film recommendations.

Must Watch: Emilie Björkman fishes the Río Menéndez at Wuijoor Lodge in Tierra del Fuego. Great tackle tips for fishing deep on the bends of the river.
Flying into Queenstown this season and hoping to fish? Getting on good water can be tricky. Start by calling Chris Dore, local fly fishing guide extraordinaire. He’s likely booked, but can give a solid update on river conditions – or better yet, book a day with him now for expert guidance.
Lake Brunner Lodge, on the South Island’s West Coast, is returning to its roots as a fly fishing base. Originally built in 1868 (and rebuilt in 1930), it was first known as Mitchells Lake Hotel. The lodge offers guided access to the storied waters that built New Zealand’s reputation as a fly fishing destination back in the early 1990s.
Nautilus finally released the long-awaited GTR 8/9 Fly Reel to fly shops this week. Initially available in matte black and brushed titanium anodizing, prices are US$875 for reel and US$415 for a spare spool. From Kristen Mustad, Nautilus owner/designer for the past 23 years says, “This 4.5-diameter reel gives anglers lightning-fast line pickup and the stopping power to handle bonefish, permit, or steelhead with confidence. Soon you will be able to swap it with the 10/11 spool for tarpon season—one frame, multiple fisheries.” These reels will be very popular with serious saltwater anglers for a long time into the future.
If you only watch one saltwater flyfishing film this year, make it this one. Only you’ll have to wait to Dec 1 on YouTube unless you saw it at the 3FT.

Go West for Trophy Browns – South Island NZ Hosted Trip, March 15-20, 2026

Isolation Outfitters, together with Lake Brunner Lodge, is running a West Coast Hosted Trip in March 2026. Timed for settled southern weather, this trip includes helicopter access to remote headwaters where eats from big browns are highly anticipated. Contact Isolation Outfitters to get your name on the list.