Top 5 NZ Small Stream Tactics by Nathan Pollard

1) Long Light Leaders - make sure you have a good tapered leader like Trout Hunter, that’s as long as you can make it but still be able to turn over the fly. It will result in better drifts and more fish!

2) A Range of Flies - just because it’s a small stream doesn’t mean the fish eat small bugs. I have found many times that the fish are more willing to come over and eat a cicada than a size 18 mayfly. Check out the Manic Fly Collection.

3) Walk Slowly and be Patient! - in a small stream with slow moving water, big fish will do a beat and will circle a pool looking for food. This is how I’ve caught my biggest small stream fish.

4) Good Sunnies with Polarised Lenses - low light (yellow lens) sun glasses are my go to. It makes a huge difference when spotting fish.

5) Use a Long Soft Rod - fish a rod that can handle light tippet. In some streams I can get away with fishing a 10ft rod. I like to fish my 3wt 10ft Primal Zone Euro rod as it handles lighter tippet better. It's not just for Euro nymphing, I also use it with dry flies and dry dropper. If the stream is really over grown, I fish a Primal Zone 2wt  9'3" as it's little bit shorter.

 

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About the author

Nathan Pollard is extremely passionate about fly fishing and the places it takes him. Currently studying full-time at Massey university, he still makes time for competitive fly fishing. He also works part-time with the great team at Manawatu Hunting & Fishing NZ.
Follow him on Instagram @flyfishermannate