Testimonial

I have been guided by Shane of Dragonfly River Guides numerous times over the past few years. Each time I present to Shane a new challenge such as taking a Brown Trout on the Dry in a back country river, or taking a large Steel Head from the Taupo winter Fishery. Each time Shane has met and exceeded my expectations well and truly. His all round knowledge of fly fishing techniques and “tricks up his sleeve” make him a very worthwhile guide to have by your side, especially when things are tough! His knowledge of the rivers is astounding and our days were spent in solitude away from other fisherman. I fully recommend Shane to everyone needing a top guide.

Craig Ashdown

Communication Manager

John Holland

Northern Region

Welcome to my guiding page, thank you for taking the time to look at the options available to you over the winter and summer months. Please feel free to look through the rest of my web site, I hope you enjoy it.

A quick blurb about myself : My name is Shane French, I have been fly fishing now for well over 35 years and have been a full time guide for the past 5 years. . Trout fishing has given me great pleasure and many fabulous memories over the years. I would now like to share this acquired knowledge with you, to provide an exciting day out, you will never forget.

.My job as your guide is to provide you with a safe, enjoyable and rewarding experience on the water. For me, competing for water with other fisherman is not an option. My extensive knowledge of Taupo and all it’s rivers will ensure you don’t have to compete with other anglers. I am a trained chef and so for those on full day excursions, you will be feed well!

I have instructed many complete novices in fly fishing over my time as a guide. I can honestly say, watching a new comer to the sport hook and land their first Trout is part of the reason I guide. I use easy techniques to get you going and many of my first time clients hook up and land trout. Sometimes a full day on the water can be a bit of a drain Physically and mentally for beginner anglers, so have a think about my half day specials as well. All fishing gear is supplied.

For the advanced angler who just wants to see the best water and what the trout are taking. I fish ALL the water in Taupo and if they are not in one river they will be in another. I have lots of sneaky spots and more than one trick up my sleeve to make your day memorable.

Sometimes it is not all about the catching of trout that matters, for some it is being out there doing it. The Taupo rivers and the surrounding area is one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand. Just being out there is an experience you will  remember for a long time.

Regards Shane French

Head Guide

Dragonfly River Guides