Eleven Owen River Lodge, New Zealand

Eleven Owen River Lodge in the Nelson Lakes area of New Zealand’s South Island is a boutique 5* fishing lodge in a region renowned as a “sighted” brown trout fishery, with the average trout size ranging from three to six pounds. 

Big wild brown trout and a variety of water

The region around Owen River Lodge is renowned as a “sighted” brown trout fishery, which means, for the majority of the rivers, the angler must see the fish, before the fish sees the angler. 

Among the huge variety of rivers to choose from are small intimate rivers like the Owen River, and iconic freestone rivers such as the Wairau. Each season the fishery has granted many an angler’s dream of landing a ten pounder.  There are over 30 waters accessible by road, most within an hour’s drive, and countless others by helicopter. 

Owen River Lodge offers a friendly, professional service for both experienced and novice fly fishers. You may have heard New Zealand’s rivers described as being “Gin Clear” – well it’s certainly true here. Imagine stalking a ten pound brown trout in water so clear that it looks 12 inches deep when it’s is actually up to your waist!

Five star accommodation and service for fishers and non-fishers

Owen River Lodge opened in November 2003 and comprises six purpose-built stone cottages a short stroll from the main building. The luxuriously appointed en-suite cottages have stunning views over the Owen River, the valley, Mount Owen, and the Kahurangi National Park. The lodge has almost a kilometre of private river frontage which is a perfect place for that quiet after-dinner cast during the evening rise.

The main lodge building includes the dining room, lounge room, sitting room, lodge shop, fly tying area and of course, the bar. The food is superb with the chefs using the very best of fresh, locally sourced produce. Within the grounds at Owen River Lodge, just past the organic herb and vegetable gardens, there is a massage/therapy room and outdoor Jacuzzi/spa.

Owen River Lodge has an endless supply of non-fishing activities around the lodge and local area; mountain biking, farm tours, rafting, and golf are just a few activities on offer.  

 “Great 5 star fly fishing lodge and many Brown Trout caught. Fantastic lodge, welcoming staff and my non-angling wife thoroughly enjoyed her stay too.”  T.S. – USA

mountains and forests abound

Owen River Lodge is near Murchison, in the Nelson Lakes area of the South Island, New Zealand. While mountains and forests abound, the area enjoys a remarkably mild climate.  The lodge is a leisurely 90 minute drive from Nelson which is served by daily flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch