Two of New Zealand’s Top Women Fly Fishing Guides
Shelen Scout Boyes
More and more, you see women becoming professional fishing guides around the world, and they are bringing their fresh enthusiasm to the profession. If you’re planning a fly fishing trip to New Zealand’s South Island, known worldwide for its exceptional angling, you’re in for a treat. Two remarkable women guides are revolutionizing the industry there, offering experiences that blend skill, local knowledge, and fishing enthusiasm.
Shelen Scout Boyes’ story reads like an angler’s dream come true. Originally from a small town in California, Shelen’s love for fishing led her on an incredible journey. She met the love of her life—well-known Kiwi angler Connor Andrew—and found herself trading the familiar waters of California for the pristine rivers of Queenstown, New Zealand.
Fast forward eight years, and Shelen’s not just living the dream—she’s helping others live it too. She now runs the fly fishing department at Queenstown’s Patagonia Store, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Shelen’s true passion lies in sharing her love for the sport, especially with other women. She regularly hosts women-focused fly fishing events, creating a welcoming space for female anglers to learn and grow.
If you’re curious about Shelen’s skills, just take a peek at her Instagram (@troutscoutlife). Fair warning: prepare for some serious fish envy. Her feed is packed with photos of impressively large catches, showcasing both her expertise and the incredible potential of New Zealand’s waters.
Want to fish with Shelen? Check out her website. Her deep love for fly fishing is evident in everything she does—she lives it, breathes it, and absolutely loves sharing it with others. That’s exactly what you want in a fishing guide.
She and Connor are currently chasing Steelhead here in British Columbia, as they do every October.
Hannah Clement
Now, let’s head over to Christchurch and met Hannah Clement, another star in New Zealand’s fly fishing scene. Hannah’s home base at the Hunting & Fishing Store in Christchurch puts her right at the heart of some of the country’s best fishing territory.
Christchurch, like Queenstown, is a fantastic jumping-off point for a fishing adventure. Hannah specializes in the rivers northwest of the city, which have a reputation for producing some of New Zealand’s largest trout year after year. If you time your visit right and come during one of the famous “Mouse Years,” you might just land the catch of a lifetime under Hannah’s guidance.
Like Shelen, Hannah’s Instagram (@she’s_on_the_fly) is a testament to her skill. It’s filled with photos of impressive catches that’ll have you itching to cast a line. For more info on fishing with Hannah, swing by her website.
Why Hiring a Guide in New Zealand Makes Sense
Now, you might be wondering if you really need a guide for your New Zealand fishing trip. If it’s your first time fishing these waters, I’d strongly recommend it—especially at the start of your trip. Here’s why:
Fishing with a guide like Shelen or Hannah isn’t just about having someone show you where the fish are. It’s about learning how the game is played in New Zealand. These waters can be different from what you’re used to, and the techniques that work back home might not cut it here.
Your guide will teach you the art of spotting fish in these crystal-clear rivers – a skill that’s crucial for success and incredibly satisfying when you master it. They’ll show you the most effective local techniques and help you understand the unique behavior of New Zealand trout.
But perhaps the most valuable thing you’ll gain is confidence. After a day or two with a guide, you’ll have a much better feel for the rivers. You’ll understand what to look for, where to cast, and how to approach the water. This knowledge is invaluable if you plan to do some independent fishing later in your trip.
Plus, let’s not forget the insider knowledge. Your guide will likely mark some prime fishing spots on your map – those little “X” marks can lead to some of the best fishing of your life.
Planning Your New Zealand Fly Fishing Adventure
When you’re putting together your South Island fishing trip, consider starting in either Queenstown or Christchurch. Both cities offer great access to prime fishing areas and are perfect bases for your adventure.
I’d suggest booking a guide like Shelen or Hannah for the first couple of days of your trip. This will give you a solid foundation in local techniques and spots. After that, you might want to mix it up with some guided days and some independent exploration.
And don’t forget to ask about the best seasons for fishing. If you can time your visit with one of the “Mouse Years,” you might just land that trophy trout you’ve been dreaming about.
Choosing to fish with experienced guides like Shelen Scout Boyes or Hannah Clement isn’t just about hiring an instructor. It’s about tapping into a wealth of local knowledge, accessing the best fishing spots, and sharing in the passion these women have for New Zealand’s stunning rivers and trout. Their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm are helping to reshape the world of fly fishing guiding, one cast at a time.
For a year’s worth of David Lambroughton imagery in his Fly Fishing Dreams calendar, click here.
