The Scuttlebutt
We’re not huge fans of the rumour mill, unless people are saying nice things about us of course……..
Pat Murphy, Singapore.
“I had the good fortune to first fish with Jeff in Mongolia back in 2015 and his professionalism and friendliness meant that I fished with him down in New Zealand the following year. Since then I have fished with Jeff as many times as possible each year and the experience has always been exceptional. Jeff will put you on fish even on the toughest of days, he is incredibly adaptable and always has an idea or two regardless of the conditions and these ideas invariably pay off. Jeff’s willingness to share his knowledge of the fish, gear, casting, approach etc. has really helped to bring me up the learning curve in an amazing but sometimes unforgiving fishery. Finally and in many ways most importantly, Jeff is good company and even on my earliest trips it was like fishing with a friend and nowadays that’s just what it is.”
George Croton, USA.
“It’s always nice to fish with someone who has fully dedicated themselves to their craft. Jack knows every inch of his local waters, has a deep understanding of fish behavior, and is an awesome guy to spend the day with. Very grateful for an amazing day drifting the Clutha and can’t wait to come back for more!”
Brian Elton, Australia.
“The guides at Aotearoa Anglers are quite simply the consummate fly fishing guides. I’ve fished with them every year for 8 years running. While you may think the day starts with the always on time pick up at your accommodation, they have been preparing for your trip well before. Considering likely weather conditions, water levels and drawing on their vast experience of South Island waters to work out where to fish for the day. The result of this careful preparation is the opportunity to catch trout. Lots of them and big!
On the water the guides have a uncanny ability to see fish. You will learn something new about fly fishing, trout and nature each trip whether you are a beginner or an experienced fly fisher. They work tirelessly for their clients.
Chris Kelly, Australia.
“Jeff and Jack are incredible. I spent some solo time fishing with them, as well as time with my wife and children (7 & 8). Wildly different scenarios, but both trips were handled perfectly by the guys. Our daughter is still exclaiming "I caught a donkey"!
Knowledgable, patient, and all the other things that make good guides, and a guiding business.”
John Kottal, USA.
“I had the pleasure of fishing with Jack last month on my first trip to the island. What a great experience... Jack is a master of his craft in all regards, and is a true class act of a human being. He communicates well, is patient, and can spot fish like no other. He put me on some truly beautiful fish, and was both a great guide as well as companion for my day on the water. 5 stars. Awesome!”
Ross Purnell, USA.
“There are great guides, and then there are great guides you’d like to spend a week with. Jeff Forsee is one of the later. He’ll get you into fish of course, but he’s also a coach, mentor, confidant, advisor, team mate and the most gracious host you could hope for on any continent.”
Andrew George, Australia.
“I have been lucky enough to fish with Jeff on several occasions all of which were absolutely amazing. Jeff would have to be the hardest working guide I have ever used, from the planning that goes into the trips to the days on the river. Jeff works his backside off to do everything he can to make your trip that trip of a lifetime. Not only is Jeff a great guide and instructor but he is a great guy who is a pleasure to share a trip with. Thanks very much Jeff I can’t wait to get into that backcountry with you again.”
April Vokey, Canada.
"When I think of full-time guides who are doing it right, I think of Jeff Forsee. Jeff is everything a great guide should be: professional, likeable, clever and fishy. Not only has Jeff put me on top of some of the biggest fish my life, he’s also made my days of the water unforgettable. I can’t say enough great things about Jeff or his fishery, and would recommend him every day of the week.”
Fraser Mackenzie, New Zealand.
“I was lucky enough to be invited to tag along with Aotearoa Anglers on an unforgettable adventure deep into the Amazon to target Peacock Bass, it was exhilarating! Our journey began with a float plane trip into the jungle where we were surrounded by stunning scenery and incredible wildlife. The camaraderie amoung our group was fantastic and we enjoyed amazing meals prepared by a talented chef that added to the experience. Everyday was filled with thrilling catches of vibrant and fierce peackcock bass. If you are looking for an extraordinary fly fishing experience, I can highly recommend a trip with Aotearoa Anglers - these guys know where to go!”
Charley and Kacy Steel, USA.
Incredibly professional and experienced fly guides who put you on FISH! We had the most amazing day, despite averse weather conditions, due to our guide, Jack, taking the time to place us in the right positions and places to catch fish. Hooked up on 9 fish throughout the day and could have done more if the time permitted.
This is exactly the New Zealand fly fishing experience we were looking for and I will look forward to using them again when we return.
One key point to note is that there is no “stigma” of a pompous New Zealand fly guide here…very chill, fun, patient, and most importantly relatable guides! We felt comfortable being at ease with Aotearoa Anglers and would recommend them to anyone looking for a fun day, big fish, and a beautiful experience.
Tracy Robinson, USA.
“If you want to go catch unique fish in even more unique locations around the world then Jeff and Aotearoa Anglers are where you should look. Great knowledge of the areas and the fish species you are targeting, fun low stress atmosphere, well thought out and prepared, and just good people to be around. I cannot say enough good things about them. They are detailed oriented so you have all the information you need from the beginning to be prepared yourself with clothing, gear, and tackle. Absolutely top notch!”
Kyle Hutchinson, USA.
We had an incredible winter drift fishing trip in New Zealand with Aotearoa Anglers, guided by Jeff, who is both a knowledgeable and expert fisherman. Jeff knew exactly where to go, ensuring we had a productive and exciting day on the water - caught four trout in as many hours. The gear provided was top-notch, making the experience even more enjoyable. Beyond his skills, Jeff is a great guy to spend time with, making the whole trip feel like a day out with a friend. We would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a memorable fishing experience in Wanaka. Thanks, Jeff, for an unforgettable day!
Travis Maurer, USA.
“I first met Jeff in 2016 chasing taimen in Mongolia. While he wasn’t my guide on the trip, he took time to make sure I was set up, fishing properly and we cultivated a friendship. Since then, we have had a few exciting escapades and have become good buddies along the way. I can attest that Jeff has a thirst for adventure and a passion for the outdoors more than anyone else that I know. His attention to details, planning and knowledge makes him a perfect guide for anyone from a novice to expert. Add in his patience (which I am sure I have tested a few times) and coaching skills and you would be hard-pressed to find a more enjoyable person to lead you on the trip of a lifetime. From a short half day trip to an extravagant quest to the far reaches of the planet, Jeff is your man. I know I look forward to many more years and adventures with Jeff, wherever that may lead us.”
Rod Wentworth, USA
“Just got back from a hosted trip to Mongolia with Jeff Forsee of Aotearoa Anglers. A phenomenal adventure! The pre trip brochure was the most thorough I have ever seen and Jeff made himself available for a call to answer all our questions before the trip. I always have said that the top outfitters and guides show their best stuff when the conditions are tough. That was the case on this trip. Warm water and weather put the fish off the bite but Jeff kept our spirits up and when the chance presented itself I landed the fish of a lifetime. I Look forward to the next Aotearoa hosted trip!”
Simon Fitzpatrick, Australia.
“Had a fantastic day out on the water drift boating fishing with Jack. Jack is a highly experienced fly fishing trout guide with all the technical knowledge and put me onto the fish using a variety of techniques from nymphing to stalking fish and streamer fishing. He went above and beyond to ensure I had the best day on the water.”
Kevin Ford, Australia.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to fish with Jeff in both the North and South Hemispheres several times.
He always somehow manages to put together a successful program, and man we’ve had some memorable times and bagged some great fish!!
I learn so much from him each time we get to fish together.
Any day on the water with Jeff is a good day.”