What an extraordinary season we’ve just had—our 16th at the Lodge. If you stayed with us in that time, you probably saw for yourself what incredible condition our wild browns maintained during one of the driest summers on record. They’re fit, fat and heading into winter in the best shape I’ve ever seen.
And chances are good that they’re going to get even better. According to the Department of Conservation, the top of the South Island is currently experiencing the largest beech mast (seeding) in 40 years.
If you visited the Lodge after the 2014 masting event, you’ll know what that means: an explosion in the mouse population, migration in search of food, the need to swim across rivers and … dinner for trout.
It’s not guaranteed but the signs are good. Read more about it here.
If I were a betting man, I’d be booking my tickets now. We’ve already got a lot of earlybirds, so be sure to get in quick.
Lodge news
This year we’ve made several significant upgrades to our facilities. These include:
- new beds and air conditioners in all guest rooms
- improved Wi-Fi access
- major extensions to our gardens to increase the range and quantity of our fresh produce and provide cut flowers for the Lodge
We’ve also recently purchased a Range Rover Vogue, so if you want to take a day away from fishing for a tour with Kylie, she’ll take you in comfort and style.
Looking ahead
Thank you to all guests who stayed at Owen River Lodge in 2018-19. We loved having you and I hope you’ll join us again next season—it could be one for the record books!
Wishing you good health, success and plenty of wild browns.
STOP PRESS!
I’ve just learned that Owen River Lodge has been named a finalist in accreditation agency Qualmark’s inaugural 100% Pure New Zealand Experience Awards. These showcase and celebrate the “best of the best” in New Zealand visitor experiences and sustainable tourism. We’ll find out how we did at a gala dinner at Parliament House, Wellington, on 1 May. Wish us luck!
Owen River Lodge NZ: “Fly fishing at its very best”
Ph: +64 3 523 9075 Address: Owen Valley East Road, Murchison, Nelson, South Island, New Zealand
Email: stay@owenriverlodge.co.nz