For many women, the idea of fly fishing has always been there — sitting quietly on a “one day” list.
Not because of a lack of interest, but because of a lack of access.
That’s exactly what Women on the Fly NZ is working to change — and on March 29 in Dunedin, that mission came to life through a powerful collaboration.
Partnering with the Otago Anglers Association, Women on the Fly co-hosted an Introduction to Fly Fishing workshop designed to create a clear, supported pathway into the sport.
23 women. One shared starting point.
The event brought together 23 women, the majority being absolute beginners or novices to fly fishing.
What they shared wasn’t experience — it was curiosity.
Many arrived with the same thought: “I’ve always wanted to try this… I just didn’t know how.”
By creating a space specifically for women, the day removed a number of barriers — including where to begin, access to equipment, and finding others to fish with.
By the end of the workshop, that uncertainty had shifted into confidence, connection, and momentum.
A collaboration with purpose
This event reflects a key goal of Women on the Fly NZ — working alongside local clubs to make fly fishing more accessible for women.
By partnering with the Otago Anglers Association, the day combined a national movement focused on participation and inclusion with the knowledge, facilities, and experience of a long-standing local club.
The club hosted the event at its St Kilda clubrooms and provided four members who volunteered their time to guide participants through the fundamentals.
Led by President Mark Barrett, the approach was simple: be open, be supportive, and share knowledge.
Participants consistently described the atmosphere as welcoming, generous, and encouraging — a space where learning felt accessible.
Women on the Fly NZ was represented by Leigh Johnson and Shirley Salisbury, ensuring the focus remained on connection and confidence throughout the day.
Learning the basics and building confidence
Across the workshop, participants were introduced to casting techniques, what trout eat, where to find them, and essential knots.
Bruce Quirey from Otago Fish & Game also shared practical insights into accessing waterways, fishing locations, and the wider support available to licence holders.
For many, these sessions provided something simple but powerful — clarity on how to actually get started.
Connection was the standout
While the skills were important, the strongest theme to come through in feedback was connection.
Women spoke about meeting others at the same stage, building confidence together, and finding people to fish with.
There was a clear sense that this wasn’t just about learning a skill — it was about not doing it alone.
In one case, that connection was immediate, with two participants heading out to fish together the same evening.
Turning access into action
A key part of removing barriers is making sure the next step is clear and achievable.
Each participant received a membership to the Otago Anglers Association, giving them access to loan rods, a fishing library, and the club’s lodge in Riversdale, just minutes from the renowned Mataura River.
This shifts the experience from a one-off event to an ongoing opportunity.
What comes next
Feedback from the group shows a strong appetite for what comes next, including more hands-on sessions, beginner-friendly outings, support in understanding gear, and ongoing ways to stay connected.
The club is already planning mentoring sessions for the women who attended, helping build confidence and support as they take their next steps into fly fishing.
Because while the workshop introduced the basics, it also created something more lasting — a sense of possibility.
Ready to give it a go?
This Dunedin event shows what can happen when collaboration is used with intent.
Not just to introduce people to fly fishing, but to make it accessible, supported, and sustainable.
For 23 women — most of them absolute beginners or novices — that first step has now been taken.
And importantly, they won’t be taking the next one alone.
If you’ve ever thought about trying fly fishing, this is your sign.
Follow the Otago Anglers Association on Facebook to stay updated on local events and opportunities to get involved.
You can also join the Women on the Fly NZ Facebook community to connect with other women, ask questions, and find fishing buddies near you.
The easiest way to get into fly fishing is not to do it alone.