FRASER'S CEDAR LODGE
Destination Overview
One of the most visually spectacular backdrops for trout fishing is the South Island of New Zealand. Cedar Lodge is the South Island’s premier fly fishing lodge and is located right in the middle of some of the finest fishing water in New Zealand. It’s the only lodge that has helicopter access to rarely fished and normally inaccessible water in the Mount Aspiring National Park. Their guided vacation packages are tailored to make you feel at home on the South Island while putting you in front of wild trout on New Zealand’s most picturesque and exotic waters.
The trout, both Rainbows and Browns are prolific and get quite large. Imagine sneaking up on a small creek to stalk a 20”+ Brown or Rainbow slowly fining in a crystal clear pool knowing that your 7X tippet and tiny fly must land perfectly so that the fly floats in a dragless drift into within the tiny window visible to the trout. If you are successful you will see a flash and a splash as the trout inhales your fly and takes you on a ride that strips your line into its backing. Cedar Lodge is one of those destinations that can provide a fly fishing experience that will forever stick in your memory.
Over the years Cedar Lodge has been recognized in such premiere publications such as National Geographic and the book 50 Places to Fly Fish Before You Die. But the most important acknowledgements come from their customers who return year after year. American angling gurus Lefty Kreh, Mel Krieger, Ernest Schweibert, Doug Swisher and Dave Whitlock have all been privy to the excitement of Cedar Lodge's unique angling experience. Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, Master’s Winner Nick Faldo, World Cup Champion David Carter and British Masters Champion Greg Turner all take time away from the links and make themselves regulars at Cedar Lodge.
At a Glance
Target Fish: Rainbow and Brown trout
Location: South Island NZ
Seasons: November - March
Lodge Capacity: 8
Nearest Airport: Queenstown NZ
Electricity: 230 volts
Documents needed: Passport
Fishing Program
New Zealand’s Rainbow and Brown trout reside in the pristine waters close by Cedar Lodge. Often they are found side by side in the same pool. Almost all of the lodge’s fishing requires angler and fishing guide to stalk the fish, locate their target, and make a perfect presentation.
Cedar Lodge's exclusive fly-in helicopter concession to Mt. Aspiring National Park affords anglers total mobility to remote waters where the lack of other fishermen permits unencumbered angling and numerous fishing options.
Your typical day begins with early coffee and breakfast. About 8:45am the Lodge's helicopter begins shuttling guests from the helipad located just a few feet away from the luxury lodge to spectacular fly-fishing locations.
Depending upon river and weather conditions flights may be as short as 10 minutes and as long as 40 minutes. New Zealand trout are very spooky so your fly fishing guide will carefully position and coach you so that you can make an optimal presentation.
About noon your guide will prepare you with a streamside lunch served amidst the towering mountainsides, spectacular waterfalls, and the lush native Beech forests of the river valleys.
Nowhere else in the world can large, wild, Rainbow and Brown trout be caught on a dry fly in such a pristine environment.
At the end of the day our helicopter picks up you and your fishing guide streamside, and you are safely returned to the comforts of your home away from home.
New Zealand trout are in the 3 to 6 pound range. And from time to time some are fortunate enough to land the "big one”. With so many varying beats of water to explore there is something for everyone at this luxury fishing lodge.
If your rock hopping days are behind you, the South Island’s wide-open river valleys offer easy walks and comfortable fishing. For the fit angler rugged beats are available as well. With the availability of the chopper, your guide will find the best option for fishing success each day.
Cedar Lodge is the only owner operated heli-fishing lodge on the South Island. Our pilots and guides collaborate each morning to find the best water for the day. Heli-hiking is available for those interested.
The lodges NZ fly fishing guides are professional and they focus on instruction when needed and have the knowledge and experience to give you the best chance to catch New Zealand trophy trout. New Zealand trout fishing is challenging, but Cedar’s expert guides will put you in the best position to catch fish.
Accommodations
Cedar Lodge's 5-acre property lies along the banks of the Makarora River and is bounded by the majestic Mount Aspiring National Park.
Visitors are frequently impressed by the picturesque vistas afforded within Mount Aspiring National Park. The lodge is within short drives of scenic fishing destinations areas like Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea, and the Young River.
Queenstown, NZ is also a short distance away. Established in 1979 by Dick and Robyn Fraser, Cedar Lodge is comprised of 4 rooms, a lounge, and a dining area. Rooms are twin single accommodation with all the modern conveniences including in-room Wi-Fi.
Each room has a beautiful ever-changing rugged South Island view. In this peaceful, natural setting in the heart of New Zealand you'll eat like royalty, sleep like a baby, and enjoy true hospitality
On Site Amenities and Activities Include
Satellite TV
Wi-Fi/internet access
Helicopter transportation to remote inaccessible locations.
Gourmet Food
The lodge has a dedicated culinary staff that prepares only the freshest farm to table local cuisine. You will enjoy such New Zealand favorites as grilled lamb shanks with a mint chimmichurri, New Zealand green lipped mussels, venison steaks with sweet and delicious vegetables.
Or dine alfresco with a glass of delicious Syrah from Hay Paddock Vinyards on Waiheke Island while lamb shanks sizzle on the barbeque. Feast with good friends soaking up the outdoors and end your day with a delicate dessert and retire awaiting your next day’s adventure.
Getting there
Our guests usually fly into Queenstown (adventure capital and Middle Earth Mecca), then from Queenstown one can rent a car for the gorgeous 1 1/2 hour drive to the lodge. Pick up and drop off service can be arranged.
Rates
Cedar Lodge’s angling package includes all accommodations, meals, liquor, guiding services, and daily helicopter fly-out (weather permitting). Prices are based on double occupancy and two fishermen per guide. All rates include New Zealand Government Tax of 12.5%
8 nights/7 fishing days: $8295. per person
7 nights/6 fishing days: $7295. per person
6 nights/5 fishing days: $6295. per person
5 nights/4 fishing days: $5295. per person
4 nights/3 fishing days: $4295. per person