Your Guides
About Us
The Operation
Redefining the Access
Built by born-and-bred Kiwi anglers, Back Country Fly Fishing works the Canterbury High Country: low-pressure backcountry rivers, spring creeks and crystal-clear streams that few anglers, and even fewer guides, ever reach. The focus is simple, exceptional sight fishing for large wild brown trout in pristine, remote water.
A fully licensed and surveyed jet boat unlocks access traditionally reserved for helicopters, with more flexibility and a lighter footprint. Rather than being tied to one river, we adapt in real time to weather, water clarity and conditions, moving between fisheries so every day is set up for the best possible fishing.
The approach is relaxed and authentically Kiwi, but the standards are uncompromising. Premium Patagonia wading apparel, YETI equipment and high-end tackle, all held to full DOC concessions and LINZ permits, and every decision made around one thing: the best day on the water for you.
The Team
Meet Your Guides
Scott Miller
Owner & Lead Guide
Founder and lead guide, and a born-and-bred South Island Kiwi shaped by its rivers and remote backcountry. Scott's calm, thoughtful approach and intimate knowledge of hidden spring creeks and tributaries put anglers onto pristine, low-pressure trout water, with every trip tailored to the day.
Ben Booth
Head Fly Guide
Known to many as “Boothy,” Ben is one of the most respected names in New Zealand fly fishing, with decades on South Island water. His read of technical water and seasonal fish movement across the Mackenzie Country consistently produces trophy trout, delivered with genuine Southern hospitality.
Jayden Johns
Head Canal Guide
Specialising in the Mackenzie Country canal systems, Jayden pairs a rare natural instinct with a relentless work ethic. Every spare day is spent on the water refining his craft, and it shows: he consistently puts clients onto the trophy trout these world-renowned fisheries are famous for.
Target Species
The Fish That
Live Here
The South Island's rivers are home to wild brown and rainbow trout of exceptional size. Uncrowded, gin-clear water means these fish are sight-fished, you cast to a specific fish you can see holding in the current. It's technical, demanding, and utterly addictive.
Fish averaging 3–5lb are common. Double-figure browns are not unusual on the rivers Scott accesses by jet boat. The season runs November through April, with the shoulder months often offering the most consistent hatches.
Spaces Are Limited Each Season
Your Backcountry
Adventure Awaits
Every trip is personally guided by Scott with small group sizes to keep things exclusive. Get in touch to check availability, tailor your itinerary, and lock in your dates on the water.