It was scarcely more than an experiment. One fateful day in late 1883, Malcolm Ross’ wife Forrest knelt along the bank of the upper Tongariro and released a small bucket of fingerlings. Back then, no one even fantasized that these tiny Sonoma Creek steelhead would produce one of the world’s most prolific rainbow fisheries. Today the Lake Taupo fishery is estimated to hold over one million fish averaging four pounds. And more remarkably, its prime tributary, the Tongariro, hosts 70 percent of the system’s annual spawning migration. It is no coincidence that legendary New Zealand outfitter and angler Tony Hayes built his lodge on the banks of this remarkable system. Even more notable is that the mighty Tongariro is just the beginning of what makes the North Island’s angling experience so spectacular. With superb heli-fishing, adventuresome backcountry angling, and over thirty fishable rivers — many of which are chock-full of large, feisty rainbows — this area yields some of New Zealand’s most impressive specimens and catch-rates. Guests at Tongariro Lodge enjoy well-appointed private cabins with ensuite bathrooms and fine cuisine served in the main lodge. With bird shooting, horseback riding, hiking, rafting, golf, and natural hot pools, you will see why we consider this lodge a must for anglers and non-anglers alike.
Tongariro Travel:
To get to Tongariro Lodge you will need to make travel arrangements to and from Taupo, New Zealand. In Taupo you will be met by a member of the lodge staff who will drive you to the lodge. New Zealand is a long way away but the good news is that jet lag isn’t a big issue. The reason being that it is four hours earlier the next day. Do whatever you can to get some sleep on the plane and continue on with your travels. You will be tired but for the most part your schedule hasn’t changed all that much. Remember, that when you return home, you will typically arrive home on the same day that you left New Zealand. A valid passport is essential. When coming into the country be forewarned that New Zealand is very concerned with invasive pests and plants entering the country. When you go through customs, you will be asked whether you have any camping gear, wading gear, fly tying materials, food etc. Be sure to clean and dry all wading gear, hiking boots, ground cloths, tent floors and the likes. Do not attempt to bring in any natural fly tying materials; grain or seed based foods, or meats such as jerky or salami. If the inspectors are not pleased with the condition of your personal items, they will take them and fumigate them while you wait. This generally takes about 15-30 minutes.
Tongariro Documentation:
Valid Passport is needed.
Tongariro Fishing :
New Zealand is one of the World’s most unique and challenging trout fisheries where anglers have the opportunity to spot their trout before casting to it. Sight fishing (which comprises roughly 75% of down under angling) is demanding and intense by Western fishing standards. The fish are large and wary, the streams and rivers in which they live are often crystal clear and interestingly enough, anglers are their only formidable natural predator. As a result, Kiwi fish can be very spooky. When stalking these fish, the perfect first cast is the ultimate weapon. Generally, the key to success down under is not the ability to make long casts but lies rather in the ability to make gentle accurate presentations under pressure. More often than not, your target will be between 20 and 40 feet away. Anglers who embrace the necessary skills might expect to land three to four fish a day between three and five pounds, and while shots at larger fish will present themselves, hooking and landing the really large specimens should be considered a hard earned bonus, as opposed to a baseline expectation.
Tongariro Accommodations:
Tongariro Lodge is located the banks of the Tongariro River adjacent to the southern shores of Lake Taupo. The year-round outdoor playground of Tongariro National Park is only a short distance away. Established in 1982, the Lodge has an excellent reputation for gourmet dining, the finest accommodation, quality outdoor activities; and the very best in trout fishing guides. Guest accommodation is separate from the main Lodge. This ensures maximum privacy. Riverside chalets range from one to three bedrooms. Each chalet has private facilities and its own secluded sunny terrace with views of the Tongariro River, Lake Taupo, or the mountains.
Tongariro Season:
Year-round
Tongariro Fish Species:
Rainbow and brown trout
Tongariro Lodge Capacity:
12 anglers
Tongariro 2008 Rates:
$695.00 US per person per day.
Included:
Accommodations, based on double occupancy, guiding, all meals, access fees.
Not Included:
Transportation to and from the lodge, alcohol, optional fly-outs by fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter, alcohol, gratuities, items of a personal nature, including fishing tackle, any other items not specifically listed in the inclusions.
New Zealand