Motueka River Lodge is located in the picturesque Motueka River Valley on New Zealand’s South Island, offering luxurious accommodations with direct access to one of the country’s premier fly fishing rivers. Established in 1989, the lodge has been steeped in fly fishing history and provides exceptional brown trout fishing experiences on the renowned Motueka River.
Motueka River Lodge: New Zealand’s Premier Brown Trout Fly Fishing Destination
Targets: brown trout
New Zealand, South Island – Motueka River Valley
Direct river frontage with easy access to Motueka River
Professional local guides for single or multi-day trips
Luxurious accommodations with boutique vineyard and organic gardens
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about New Zealand fly fishing!
The Motueka River is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated brown trout fisheries, flowing through the beautiful Motueka River Valley on the South Island. The river is renowned for its abundant brown trout population and provides excellent fly fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The Motueka River Lodge boasts direct river frontage, granting guests easy access to prime fishing spots right from the property.
In addition to the main river, numerous tributaries and high-country spots are accessible nearby, offering diverse fishing experiences. The lodge’s professional local guides are experienced in navigating these waters and can provide single or multi-day guided fly fishing trips tailored to your preferences. Guests are encouraged to book early to secure the best guides and ensure the availability of necessary equipment.
Luxury Accommodations at Motueka River Lodge
Motueka River Lodge offers luxurious accommodations in a serene setting surrounded by tranquil gardens filled with native birdlife. The lodge features several beautifully appointed suites, each with a king-size bed, high-quality linens, private ensuite bathroom, and stunning views of the property and valley.
Lodge Suites
The Crusader Deluxe King, The Wisteria King, The Chapel King, and The Fuchsia King/Split King each accommodate up to 2 guests. Rates include a cooked breakfast, evening appetizers, and a four-course Chef’s Choice dinner for two.
The Garden Cottage
Accommodates up to 4 guests, offering stunning valley views. Available for bed and breakfast, with dinner available at an additional charge.
Motueka River Lodge Amenities & Activities
Wellness & Relaxation
Beyond the exceptional fishing, Motueka River Lodge offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay. The property features a boutique vineyard and expansive organic gardens, providing fresh produce and select wines managed by local vintners. For relaxation and wellness, guests can enjoy a 4-5 person sauna, hot tub, private gym, and personalized wellness services including facial and body treatments, massages, yoga, and meditation.
Adventure & Activities
For convenient transport and tailored daily outings, the property includes a helipad, facilitating bike rides, sailing adventures, and scenic helicopter tours of the stunning New Zealand landscape.
Motueka River Lodge Rates
Please contact us for Motueka River Lodge 2025-2026 rates and availability.
Accommodation rates start at NZD $2,495 per night for luxury suites, including cooked breakfast, evening appetizers, and four-course Chef’s Choice dinner for two. The Garden Cottage accommodates up to 4 guests at NZD $3,995 per night (bed and breakfast, with dinner available at additional charge).
Guided fly fishing trips are available as single or multi-day packages with professional local guides. Rates for fishing packages are customized based on your specific needs, including number of days, guide requirements, and equipment needs. Early booking is recommended to secure the best guides and ensure equipment availability.
Rates include: Accommodations (for suite bookings: breakfast, evening appetizers, and four-course dinner), access to Motueka River and tributaries, professional local guides for fishing trips.
Not Included: International airfare, fishing licenses, personal equipment, gratuities, additional activities (helicopter tours, wellness services, vineyard tastings, etc.).
Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change. A deposit is required to secure a reservation. Contact Angler Adventures at 860-434-9624 to discuss your fly fishing adventure and receive a customized quote.
Our Services are Free! Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Motueka River Lodge is located in the Motueka River Valley on New Zealand’s South Island. The nearest major airport is typically Nelson Airport or Christchurch Airport, depending on your travel route. From there, ground transfers can be arranged to the lodge. The property also features a helipad for convenient helicopter access.
Travel Documents
US Citizens visiting New Zealand are required to carry a valid passport. Please be sure your passport will be valid for the duration of your stay. When using a passport for proof of citizenship, we recommend carrying a photocopy of your passport picture page in a separate piece of luggage. This will greatly expedite matters should you lose your passport during your travels.
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Tropic Star Lodge – Panama’s Premier Big Game Fishing Destination
Tropic Star Lodge in Piñas Bay, Panama is one of the world’s premier big game fishing destinations. This remote, luxury lodge offers world-class fishing for Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Roosterfish, and more than 20 other species. Located in the pristine waters of the Darien Province, Tropic Star provides an unparalleled Panama fishing experience with 23 air-conditioned rooms and villas, choice of Classic or Premium Bertram 31′ boats, and multiple fishing seasons throughout the year.
Piñas Bay is renowned for its exceptional sport fishing, with the legendary Zane Grey Reef just 20 minutes from the lodge. This remote location offers quick access to prime fishing grounds, making Tropic Star one of the most productive big game fishing destinations in the world. Whether targeting massive Black Marlin in January and February, pursuing Blue Marlin from June through September, or enjoying the incredible inshore fishing for Roosterfish and Cubera Snapper from March through May, Tropic Star Lodge delivers world-class angling experiences year-round.
Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Roosterfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Cubera Snapper, Tarpon, Bluefin Trevally, Broomtail Grouper + 17+ more species
23 air-conditioned rooms and villas with ocean or garden views
Zane Grey Reef just 20 minutes from lodge
Classic or Premium Bertram 31′ boats available
Multiple fishing seasons year-round opportunities
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Panama fishing!
Tropic Star Lodge is located in the remote and pristine Piñas Bay, Darien Province, Panama. This world-renowned fishing destination offers exceptional opportunities for both offshore big game fishing and inshore light tackle angling. The lodge’s proximity to the legendary Zane Grey Reef, just 20 minutes away, ensures quick access to some of the most productive fishing grounds in the Pacific.
Offshore Big Game Fishing
Piñas Bay is famous for its world-class big game fishing. Black Marlin can be targeted year-round, with peak season occurring in January and February when these magnificent fish are most abundant. During these months, anglers regularly encounter Black Marlin weighing 300 to 600 pounds, with some trophy fish exceeding 800 pounds. Blue Marlin are also abundant, particularly from June through September and in December, with fish commonly weighing 200 to 400 pounds.
Sailfish are another highlight of the offshore fishery, with large specimens regularly exceeding 100 pounds. The waters around Piñas Bay also hold impressive Yellowfin Tuna, typically ranging from 100 to 250 pounds, and Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) averaging 50 to 60 pounds. Wahoo are also available throughout the year, providing additional excitement for offshore anglers.
Inshore Light Tackle Fishing
The inshore fishery at Tropic Star Lodge is equally impressive, with Roosterfish being the star attraction. These powerful fish are abundant from March through May, with some specimens exceeding 70 pounds. The annual Roosterfish Tournament in May showcases the incredible size and abundance of these fish. Cubera Snapper, Bluefin Trevally, Broomtail Grouper, and Almaco Jack are also readily available, providing excellent light tackle action.
Tarpon can be found in the backwaters and brackish areas, offering fly anglers exciting opportunities. The inshore fishery includes over 17 additional species, ensuring that anglers always have multiple targets available.
Fishing Seasons & Packages
Black Marlin Season (January – February)
January and February represent the peak season for Black Marlin at Tropic Star Lodge. This is the most sought-after time to visit, and bookings should be made 1-2 years in advance due to high demand. During this season, only 7-night, 6-day fishing packages are available, reflecting the premium nature of this fishery. In addition to Black Marlin, anglers can also target Blue Marlin, large Sailfish (over 100 pounds), Yellowfin Tuna (100-250 pounds), and Dorado (50-60 pounds).
Inshore Season (March – May)
The Inshore Season offers flexible package lengths with options for 3-day, 4-day, or 6-day fishing packages. March features big Yellowfin Tuna and excellent inshore fishing. April offers record-sized Roosterfish and other inshore game fish. May is highlighted by the annual Roosterfish Tournament, with abundant Roosterfish, Cubera Snapper, Bluefin Trevally, and Grouper available. This season is perfect for anglers seeking world-class inshore action.
Blue Marlin Season (June – September & December)
June and July are excellent for big Roosterfish, with some fish exceeding 70 pounds. July is one of the best months overall, with Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, and Dorado all abundant, and Grand Slams being common. August offers big Blue Marlin and Sailfish, with some Black Marlin closer inshore. September can be excellent for Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, and Sailfish, with an excellent offshore bite for large Yellowfin Tuna and Dorado. December is a great all-around month for most species, including Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, and Dorado.
Luxury Accommodations & Facilities
Tropic Star Lodge accommodates up to 45 guests in 23 spacious, air-conditioned rooms and villas. Each accommodation features private baths and views of either the ocean or tropical gardens. The lodge offers a range of options from double-occupancy standard rooms to upgraded villas, including two-bedroom and three-bedroom villas, as well as newly-built private residences.
The crown jewel of the accommodations is “The Palace,” a luxurious three-bedroom villa with master suites and panoramic views of Piñas Bay. This exceptional property provides ample space and comfort for larger groups, making it ideal for families or groups of friends traveling together.
Dining & Entertainment
The Bayview Restaurant offers formal dining with gourmet four-course dinners, featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine. Wine service is included with dinner, and the attentive wait-staff ensures a memorable dining experience. For a more casual atmosphere, poolside BBQ dining is available on select nights, allowing guests to enjoy delicious grilled fare while taking in the tropical surroundings.
The Marlin Bar is a sea-facing venue ideal for post-fishing relaxation, where guests can enjoy signature cocktails and share tales of the day’s fishing. The poolside bar serves refreshing drinks and snacks throughout the day. With three bars total on the property, guests always have options for refreshment and socializing.
Recreation & Wellness
The freshwater jungle pool with hot tub provides a perfect place to relax after a day on the water. The Rainforest Spa offers an array of treatments in a serene jungle setting, including massages, facials, and other wellness services. Shoreside guests receive three spa treatments as part of their package, along with three jungle excursions for wildlife viewing and nature exploration.
Fishing Fleet & Equipment
Tropic Star Lodge’s fleet consists of 31-foot Bertram yachts, renowned for their seaworthiness and fishing capabilities. Guests can choose between Classic Bertram 31′ boats or Premium Bertram 31′ boats, with the Premium option offering enhanced amenities and features. Each boat is equipped with GPS navigation, VHF radios, custom tuna tubes, and live baitwells designed for both inshore and offshore fishing.
The experienced local captains and mates are among the best in the business. Many are second or third-generation fishermen who have spent their lives on these waters. Their intimate knowledge of the local fishing grounds, tides, and fish behavior ensures that anglers have the best possible opportunity to hook and land their target species.
Getting to Tropic Star Lodge
Travel to Tropic Star Lodge is a seamless and comfortable process. Guests begin by flying to Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City, where they are met at the airport and transferred to their hotel for an overnight stay. The following morning, guests take a 30-minute drive to the regional airport for a charter flight of just under one hour to Bahía Piñas.
Upon arrival at the airstrip, lodge staff escort guests via a short bus ride and a 10-15 minute water taxi to the lodge. The total journey from Panama City to the lodge takes approximately 2-3 hours, but the remote location ensures that once you arrive, you’re in a world-class fishing destination with minimal distractions.
Transfer Fee: $715 per person (round-trip) includes round-trip airfare from Panama City to the lodge, VIP services upon arrival (meet-and-greet at Tocumen International Airport), and up to four ground transfers.
Tropic Star Lodge 2025 – 2026 Rates
For current 2025-2026 rates at Tropic Star Lodge, please call Angler Adventures at 860-434-9624.
Rates vary by season (Black Marlin, Inshore, Blue Marlin), boat type (Classic or Premium Bertram 31′), number of anglers per boat (1-4), and package length. Transfer fee: $715 per person (round-trip airfare Panama City to lodge, VIP services, up to 4 ground transfers). Room upgrades available at additional cost.
Contact us for seasonal discounts, special offers, promotional pricing, and to discuss the best package for your Panama fishing adventure.
Daily guided fishing (6 days for full package, varies for shorter packages)
Use of lodge facilities (pool, bars, restaurant, spa)
3 spa treatments (for Shoreside guests)
3 jungle excursions (for Shoreside guests)
What’s Not Included
Not Included:
Round-trip airfare from Panama City to lodge ($715 per person transfer fee)
Room upgrades (available at additional cost)
Gratuities for guides and staff
International airfare to Panama City
Travel insurance
Personal items and souvenirs
Deposit & Payment Terms
To confirm reservations, a deposit is required (typically 50% of total package cost). The balance is due 60-90 days prior to scheduled arrival at the lodge. Please contact us for current deposit requirements and payment terms.
Booking at Tropic Star Lodge is easy:
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Tropic Star Lodge hosts special fishing tournaments throughout the year. The Billfish Tournament in November 2025 and the annual Roosterfish Tournament in May 2026 are highlights of the fishing calendar. These events feature special rates and packages. Contact us for tournament-specific pricing and availability.
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Hope that you are all doing great there in Connecticut. A small report on what is going on at the Estancia, to wet your appetite.
Last week the fishing at the ranch was outstanding to say the least. Our guests caught very nice trout on the Pedregoso Creek, the Coyhaique River and of Course on the Zorro Spring Creek.
The Pedregoso was particularly productive there we have been averaging 50 trout per guest a day (between 12 and 19 inches).
At the Zorro Creek they caught an overage of 15 trout per day, they were from 16 to 24 inches. (all in dry flies, since they did not want to use nymphs).
We are starting to see some pretty good hatches in the afternoon (may flies and caddis); we expect that the fishing in the next weeks will keep getting better and better.
Now we have a group from New York and Pennsylvania, they are here for the second time and were having a blast in the Pedregoso today.
For more information, call (800-628-1447 / 860-434-9624) or email Chip Bates (chip@angleradventures.com) at Angler Adventures.
A couple of years ago I made my first visit to Montana. The first day on the water, 30 Trout!!!!! I had never nymphed in my life and by the end of the first hour I was a pro! Not only was I nymphing, I was dry fly fishing like never before.
Since then, I have convinced many saltwater anglers to fill out their summer calendar with a trip to the mountains and Blue Skies of Montana.
Whether you are new to freshwater, or you have lots of experience, Montana offers “action”, as well as technical match-the-hatch fishing. Montana is also a great adventure destination, whether you are a couple, single, family or group.
There are two lodges that have something for everyone and are my favorites.
Five Rivers Lodge is in an ideal location, Dillon, Montana. Some of the “best kept secrets” are in this area. Five Rivers offers excellent fishing on the Beaverhead, (Upper and Lower and more private access points were added this year), the Madison (Rainbows are terrific on this river), the Ruby, Big Hole, the Jefferson and several private water access points including, “The McCoy”.
Five Rivers has a host of guides that are experienced, friendly, and professional and are very good about providing instruction as well.
Jay Burgin and Mary Jacques (your host and hostess) are simply terrific. They make you feel at home, keep the food
and wine flowing, and offer accommodations with all amenities. You will love their warmth and hospitality, and enjoy the magnificent sunsets while dining on the delicious meals they provide.
Five Rivers has something for everyone! Jay and Mary are more than happy to assist with other arrangements as well, horseback riding, day trips and picnics.
The “Good News” is it is not too late to book for 2003, and this year is shaping up to be one of the best years in many years, with 90 percent of normal snow pack. If 2003 is just not possible, now is the time to secure your week for 2004. Fiver Rivers will honor all 2003 rates for clients deposited by September of 2003.
During my stay at Five Rivers, I was able to experience, “Vinter’s Week” and due to it’s popularity it is repeated every year. World Class Wines and World Class Fly Fishing at their finest. The dates for “Vinter’s Week” are noted below and please check out our web site at www.www.angleradventures.com/fiverivers for current rates.
10 MayRoger Riccardi of Gallo of Sonoma – California14 JulyMarc Mondavi of Charles Krug – California11 AugustJohn Dingethal of Sandhill – Washington / Alex Schug of Shug Carneros – California1 SeptemberJerry Bookwalter of Bookwatler – Washington
During my visit to Montana, I made a stop at the The Complete Fly Fisher located on the banks of the Big Hole River in Montana. The lodge was full of very happy guests some of whom were learning the art of fly fishing for the first time. The guides at the CFF love to teach, whether its converting a beginner into a devote, or showing an experienced angler how to double haul. The lodge, situated on the east slope of the Rocky Mountains, is located Riverside, dining is Gourmet with a full, “Water View”.
You will never experience the beauty of the Big Hole in a picture. Even if you aren’t fishing, the scenery will absolutely overwhelm you. For me, it was not only beautiful, but spiritually moving. The terrific fishing was a bonus.
Some of my favorite weeks in Montana are late June, through July when the weather is warm, water levels are up and the dry fly activity can be outstanding.
I asked the guides at the Complete Fly Fisher what their favorite time is, and most of them agreed, the last 3 weeks of September to the first two weeks of October.
The fishing can be superb, many of the tourists have gone home and the fall
colors are spectacular. Many anglers choose their dates according to what’s hatching, such as the Salmon Fly Hatch on “Rock Creek” in early June to July, or the “Hoppers” in August. For more information on the hatch schedules, dates of availability and rates please go to: https://www.angleradventures.com/complete
The CFF also hosts a variety of activities for those that want to take in all that Montana has to offer. Guided day tours are tailored to fit your interests – be it wildflowers, native uses of plants, birds, wildlife or historical sites. Other activities include Horseback Riding, High Country Discovery Tours with a wide range of natural history activities, especially designed for children. There’s something for everyone!
Montana is an awesome adventure, for fishers, non-fishers, family and friends, and now may be the best time to get historically low airfares.
For more information, please contact Judy S. Hall at Angler Adventures by email (judy@angleradventures.com) or phone (800-628-1447 in the US, 860-434-9624 internationally). I look forward to hearing from you.
Jorge Graziosi was the guest speaker at a luncheon held September 9th, 2009 at the Anglers’ Club of New York, 101 Broad Street. Other invited guests included three representatives of Angler Adventures; owner Chip Bates, Travel Manager Judy Hall, and Webmaster Evan Peterson.
Jorge Graziosi has been guiding in Patagonia, Argentina since 1968. In 1999 he built and opened Arroyo Claro Lodge, located in the beautiful Carrileufu River Valley, a 3-hour drive south of Bariloche and 3-hours from the Chilean border. Jorge may be the only outfitter offering guests the opportunity to fish both Argentina and Chile. Arroyo Claro Lodge will host an Anglers’ Club outing January 23-30, 2010. Arrangements for the Anglers’ Club Argentina trip are being handled by Angler Adventures. Click here for more information on Arroyo Claro Lodge or contact Chip Bates at Angler Adventures: (800) 628-1447 or Chip@angleradventures.com.
We hope you enjoy Jorge Graziosi’s slide show presentation to the Anglers’ Club, below. If you would like the slide show to auto-play, please click on the menu in the lower left hand corner and select auto-play. Click here to read Angler Adventures September 2009 Newsletter.
Angler Adventures has negotiated several value packed “2 for the price of 1” deals at some of our premier lodges. For more information, please click on the lodge name, or call us at 800-628-1447 (860-434-9624).
Spectacular, remote setting.
6 person capacity.
Rainbows and big Browns.
Normal weekly price $3,250 per person, double occupancy / shared guide.
Angler Adventures’ Special for November 2009: $1,625 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Excellent Bonefishing with good chances at Permit.
Access to Gorda Cay and Mores Island.
Price Reduction for 2010.
Normal weekly price $2,820 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Angler Adventures’ Special through February 2010: $1,813 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Permit, Bonefish, and Tarpon.
30-miles off the coast of Belize.
Only 6 spots currently available: 2 – November 7 – 14, 2009 & 4 – November 21 – 28, 2009.
Normal weekly price $3,902.58 per person, double occupancy / shared guide.
Angler Adventures’ Special: $2,573.09 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Direct access to Bonefishing in the Marls.
Nice Accommodations and Gourmet Meals.
Great location for non-anglers.
Normal weekly price $6,800 per couple double occupancy / shared guide.
Angler Adventures’ Special, February 1st – March 15th, 2010: $4,250 per couple double occupancy / shared guide.
Extensive Hard Sand Flats.
Wade fisherman’s paradise.
Comfortable cottage style accommodations.
Normal weekly price $3,085 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Angler Adventures’ Special for bookings confirmed before January 1, 2010: $1,962.50 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Experience Chilean Patagonia in luxury.
Unparalleled level of Service.
Access to typically inaccessible fertile fishing grounds.
Normal weekly price $17,850 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
Angler Adventures’ Special: $8,925 per person double occupancy / shared guide.
These discounts are offered to new reservations only and do not apply to existing reservations, nor date changes to existing reservations. Discounts for alternate times, or other lodges may be available. If the above offerings aren’t exactly what you’re looking for call us at 1-800-628-1447; and we’ll find you the best possible deal!
“Why bones are special—The bonefish is the nearest thing there is to a perfect gamefish for fly-fishing anglers. A voracious predator, it readily (but warily) takes flies. It accelerates faster and sprints farther than any other fish you take on light tackle. It fights more doggedly than most fish twice its size.
This performance alone would qualify the bonefish as one of the world’s top fly-fishing targets. But what makes this silver phantom of the tropics the ultimate quarry in fly fishing is that you must see it—sometimes from 80 feet away—before you can even cast to it. You stalk it like a predator. You track it down, take your aim, and cast with precision. You must make no mistakes. The ruthless, primitive survival instincts of this skittish creature leave no room for error.”
Reprinted from Fly Fishing for Bonefish, New and Revised by Dick Brown, (copyright 2008). Published by Lyons Press an imprint of Globe Pequot Press, Guilford, CT
Tanzania offers one of the finest fisheries left on the planet – Tigerfishing on the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers. This is the place if you’re looking to catch a big Tigerfish on the fly. The season runs from August to November (15 weeks) each year, with a maximum of 8 rods per week (4 rods per river).
The early part of the season is good for big fish with less numbers and late season in better for more fish with a decrease in average size. Early season the water levels are higher and guests can expect to hook around 10 fish per day. During the later part of the season, water levels are lower and warmer, and this attract more small male fish into the system from floodplains downstream, accounting for the increase in smaller fish in the system. During this time, clients will expect to hook up to 20 or so fish per day.
The strikes are violent and when a Tigerfish hits your fly, she’s moving at top speed. Due to the voracity, strength, and size of these fish, a 50% hook up to landed fish ratio is considered doing well. Tigersfish will actually hold the fly in their jaws for an entire fight, unhooked, only to open their mouth at the boat and spit the fly. Similar to Tarpon fishing, it’s all about the take, the acrobatic jumps, and the fight.
The past 2 seasons on the Mnyera and Ruhudji were superb: 578 fish landed between 10 and 20 lbs and 31 fish breaking the magical 20lb mark. To put this in perspective, a trophy Tigerfish from any other river would be 12 pounds. On the Mnyera and Ruhudji, the average fish is between 8 – 12 lbs.
The cost for 7-nights / 6-days fishing is USD $6,750 per person person based on double occupancy accommodations and a shared boat / guide daily.
