On Sunday, November 10th, the Tongariro River was alive with the excitement of over 40 women fly fishing alongside a dozen+ mentors. The 2024 Women on the Fly NZ (WoTF NZ) Workshop, hosted at the Tongariro and Lake Taupo Angling Club Inc. (TALTAC) in Turangi, welcomed a diverse group of beginners, novices, and intermediate anglers.
The workshop was conducted under the guidance of a dedicated team of mentors, supported by an enthusiastic team of volunteers. Their combined efforts created an environment where participants could grow their skills, build confidence, and develop lasting connections.
Workshop Highlights
1. Learning and Skill Development
The workshop’s structured sessions offered participants a tailored experience, split into two streams—beginner/novice and intermediate. This approach ensured that every participant, regardless of skill level, had the opportunity to learn new techniques, improve existing abilities, and gain confidence in fly fishing.
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Beginners and Novices Programme:
- Fly tying basics
- Casting basics
- Rod setup and knots
- Finding the fish
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Intermediate Electives:
- Basic fly tying refresh
- Advanced casting techniques
- Spey fishing
- Euro nymphing
- Wet lining & streamers
- Advanced water reading & method selection
Both streams provided a rich learning experience, ensuring participants could build their confidence and refine their techniques in a supportive environment.
2. Conservation Awareness and River Safety
Participants were educated on the importance of biosecurity, including the North Island’s “Clam Clean Check Dry” protocols, to prevent the spread of invasive species. An interactive session on River Etiquette and River Safety included demonstrations of three types of flotation devices and a discussion on the effective use of wading poles.
3. Mentorship and Community
The event paired participants with experienced mentors, as well as women stepping into mentoring roles for the first time. This mentorship model is essential for growing the numbers of women taking up fly fishing and fosters a supportive environment where everyone can build confidence and establish lasting connections.
4. Evening Activities and Social Connections
Friday evening’s ‘build a burger’ meal helped participants break the ice and get to know one another, while Saturday’s lunch of delicious sandwiches provided a relaxed moment between workshops. These gatherings were as valuable as the skill-building sessions, fostering friendships and connections with future fishing buddies.
Saturday’s keynote by Corina Jordan, CEO of Fish & Game NZ, was a standout moment. Her talk on the role of Fish & Game and women’s growing contribution to freshwater angling inspired attendees. The evening continued with an advanced fly-tying session, offering a creative and hands-on learning opportunity.
The BBQ dinner brought the group together, joined by additional mentors who had volunteered to guide participants on the river for Sunday morning’s fishing session.
4. Fishing Morning on the Tongariro River
Sunday’s on-river session gave participants the chance to apply their skills with mentor support. For many, it was their first time fishing—a significant step that was met with enthusiasm. While some caught trout, the focus was on learning and enjoying the experience.
Participant Feedback
The 2024 WoTF Workshop received highly positive feedback, with participants praising the organisation, communication, mentoring, and workshop content. Key highlights included:
- Skill Development: Tailored sessions boosted confidence, particularly in casting, rod setup, knots, and advanced techniques like Euro nymphing.
- Community Building: Participants appreciated connecting with like-minded women and building friendships.
- Barriers Overcome: The event helped address common challenges like lack of confidence and fishing partners, inspiring participants to fish more often.
One participant shared: “The weekend showed me I can do this and gave me the tools to start fishing with confidence.”
Acknowledgments and thanks
This workshop was made possible thanks to the dedication of the WoTF NZ planning team and the generosity of its sponsors, mentors, and partners. Special thanks to TALTAC for hosting the event and to the Taupō Waters Trust (Tūwharetoa) for their support.
We extend our gratitude to the following sponsors and contributors who generously supported the 2024 WoTF Workshop. Your contributions played a vital role in the success of this event.
- Manic Tackle Project
- I Love Fly Fishing
- Creel Tackle House & Café
- NZTroutApp
- Sporting Life Turangi
- Fly Fishing with Tony (Entwistle)
- Patagonia
- Latitude Gear Shop
- Speedlinefishing.com
- Desolve Supply Co
- Fish & Game NZ
- Hanak – Peter Scott
- TALTAC
- Department of Conservation (Taupo)
- New World Turangi
- Harrison Flooring Taupo
- Bronwyn Wilson Fly Tying
- McLean Nets
- Taupo Fishing Club
Summary
The 2024 Women on the Fly NZ Workshop was a great success, giving women the opportunity to learn new skills, connect with others, and grow as anglers. Thanks to the enthusiasm of the participants, the dedication of mentors, sponsors, and volunteers, everyone left with greater confidence and enthusiasm for fly fishing.
The Women on The Fly NZ movement is building a strong, supportive community. Thank you to everyone who made this workshop a memorable experience.
Women on The Fly NZ
www.womenonthefly.nz