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Day Rafting

Is there an advantage is using a raft in fly fishing the Rangitikei District? Clearly, in fly fishing a river the size of the Rangitikei, being able to cover distance effortlessly, and position yourself at the top of remote and prime fishing pools is advantageous. In fact, some pools exist which are not accessible any other way.

Fly fishing with the raft in New Zealand is different from the North American counterpart. In North America, occupants of a raft or drift boat will be casting to likely water while drifting in the raft. In New Zealand rivers, we have been successful in approaching feeding trout with a raft in only a few circumstances. For the most part, we use the raft as a vehicle to access distant and remote pools, where we can effect our approach on foot. In most cases, trout will be spooked by an approaching raft long before they are within casting range.

Rafting and fishing is particularly advantageous for anglers who are unable to walk very far. Accessing distant fishing over stony riverbed is strenuous stuff, and not everyone is up to it. This is where the raft comes into it's own. By using the raft, we can put an angler on more fish, with less effort on his/her part.

Because any river large enough for rafting passage will be a reasonable size river, anglers should be prepared to encounter fly fishing opportunities requiring casts upward of 16 meters ( 55 feet ). Although some 'short shots' are also needed in rivers like the Rangitikei, anglers unable to cast 16 meters will find  their chance limited depending on how far they can cast. Generally, smaller tributary rivers are easier to fly fish (although they generally require more hiking). Rewards from the larger rivers can come in impressive packages though.

Some rafting trips involve negotiating rapids, but not all. Over the past 17 years, Rangitikei Anglers has developed the concept of 'Risk Managed' descent. With this method, anglers are never actually in the raft for the roughest spots. Rafts are either run through empty or portaged around the more difficult rapids. Many of our rafting trips involve only gentle safe grade 2 passages. Many anglers who are a little apprehensive about the rafting are wanting something more 'exciting' by the end of their trip!

The raft is also a tremendous advantage on camping trips. Because our camping gear is self contained, and fits into the raft, we are completely mobile, and therefore able to move to a new area of the river each day. A New Zealand law has been enacted which regulates the river rafting industry. The Maritime Safety Authority now requires a Certificate of Compliance for commercial rafting to legally conducted in New Zealand. Protective rod tubes keep your rod safe and rigged during travel. Rangitikei Anglers is fully certified and audited to the highest safety standards. And our guides are fully qualified and registered.

Not only are the rafting trips an excellent way to access remote and private fishing pools, but they are also an excellent way to enjoy the scenery. New Zealand's river valleys are some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Many non-fishing partners choose to enjoy the day on the river. I can't think of a better place to pursue photography or just plain relax.

 
Ed Blank's Adventures Main Page

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