Joel Hughes Fly Fishing
Joel Hughes Fly Fishing
Joel Hughes Fly Fishing

Joel Hughes

Southland Fly Fishing Guide

Premium Fly Fishing Adventures

Join Joel, a laid-back and knowledgeable local guide, for an unforgettable day on the water in the heart of Southland and West Otago. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or have been casting for years, Joel offers personalised trips tailored to your pace, skill level, and sense of adventure.

Based in Gore, Joel has spent years getting to know the rivers and streams of the region. He’s not about pressure or hype—just good fishing, great company, and a genuine love for being out there.

With a background as a large animal vet, Joel brings plenty of stories, insight, and a relaxed, down-to-earth approach to guiding. Come experience the beauty, simplicity, and joy of fly fishing in one of New Zealand’s most iconic regions.

Let’s make it more than just a fishing trip. Let’s make it a great day out.

Testimonial

“Joel is a top-tier guide with deep knowledge of the river, an exceptional eye for spotting trout, and a calm, thoughtful approach that makes learning easy and enjoyable. The sight fishing was technical and often challenging, but Joel’s guidance helped me read the water more effectively and make accurate, delicate presentations that paid off with some truly memorable catches.

He also made the logistics seamless—from planning to transport—and even came prepared with some excellent sandwiches that kept us going on the river. His attention to detail, warm personality, and genuine passion for the sport turned the trip into something far more meaningful than just catching fish.”

EMIL, South Africa
Testimonial 2

“The truth is that there are not statements to explain my experience spending time fishing with Joel. I can only say that I had some of the best days of my life and can’t thank you enough.

Joel is a great person with a great sense of humour and an incredible knowledge not just about fishing but in Hunting, farming industry, biology, nature, New Zealand history.

“First cast, first fish 4lb brown trout”. That day we caught around 9 fish each, that was the best day of my fishing life! Not just because of the fish but also the experience and the most stunning scenery that I have ever seen.”

JESSE DOMINGUEZ, United Kingdom
Testimonial 3

“Within 5mins of arriving river side – Joel had me catching a fish after teaching me a few things and spotting a fish.

Throughout my two days I learnt a lot! I caught multiple fish and I had a great time – really furthering my enjoyment of fly fishing.

Joel taught me I don’t need clear water and helped my ability to understand a river and where to fish – when the fish weren’t to be seen.

I found Joel’s passion for fly fishing, combined with his love of the outdoors and knowledge of the local rivers to be what I was hoping from a guide.
Highly recommend for your next trip!”

NICK, New Zealand

BOOK YOUR TRIP

Joel takes bookings well in advance, so enquire today to secure your preferred travel dates.

What’s Included?

  • Full professional guiding

  • A healthy lunch and drinking water

  • Mileage within 1 hrs drive of Gore

  • Rods, reels, and all terminal tackle (leaders, tippet, flies etc)

Not Included?

  • Boots and waders can be hired for an additional fee

  • The angler must still purchase their own fishing licences from Fish and Game NZ

  • Spare clothes, warm layers, rain jackets etc

GUIDED FULL DAY

  • 1 – 2 Anglers
  • Either leave the planning to Joel, or we can plan based on your goals for the day
  • Location is flexible – base from Gore, or meet closer to Te Anau or Queenstown
  • Part Day options – Enquire Now

MULTI-DAY TRIPS

  • 1 – 2 Anglers
  • Build on the day before – Apply those new tactics
  • Experience different waters and new scenery
  • Hands down, the best way to fish NZ
  • Pick up and drop off offered

EXTRA TUITION

  • 1 – 2 Anglers
  • Fly fishing is a lifelong journey – rewarding, challenging and always evolving
  • Joel offers personalised tuition sessions for Individuals or Groups to push your fly fishing to the next level

Ready to plan your fly fishing adventure?

Contact Joel today to talk dates, rivers, and your dream day on the water.

Joel Hughes

Fly Fishing Guide