The Trout Diaries

'In The Trout Diaries the author has his eye on larger, more elusive quarry than just fish. These pages are a salute to the joy of wild encounters and a call to protect the rivers and the trout that make our country unique. Here is a tasty catch that will satisfy angler, adventurer and philosopher alike.’ 

Kennedy Warne, founding editor of New Zealand Geographic 


'I can't remember reading a better fishing book. Couldn't put it down. [It] will surely become a classic. Can't recommend this book highly enough.'

Rob Sloane, editor FlyLife Magazine


With disarming honesty and freshness, Derek Grzelewski has written a highly readable account of his year dedicated to fly-fishing in New Zealand, relating the highs and lows, and the intricacies and finesse, of pursuing trout in the wild places and pristine waters he loves so much. The thrill of close encounters with this elusive quarry is mirrored by the pleasure he takes in the companionship of his dogs, his friends and the many others he happens across in, often secret, fly-fishing locations around the country. Each month, illustrated with fly sketches by passionate fellow angler Johnny Groome, covers aspects of fly-fishing relevant to that time of year. Along the way we meet many of the author’s friends and clients, including top professional guides and a couple of trout scientists, and share his insights into the art of fly-fishing. He also considers innovative techniques and equipment, the pros and cons of catch-and-release, and ponders on our relationship with the natural world and environmental factors affecting our waterways. 


The Trout Diaries contains a wealth of captivating and often amusing anecdotes as well as useful technical information making it a true angler’s companion, both literary and practical.


Derek Grzelewski is a regular contributor to magazines such as New Zealand Geographic, Australian Geographic, Smithsonian, GEO and Flylife. He is a former professional fly fishing guide and the founder of Wanaka Flyfishing Academy. He lives in Wanaka, on the bank of the Clutha River. www.derekgrzelewski.com