Fly Fishing in New Zealand Lakes,
by John Kent and David Hallett, Penguin, $67
A picture is worth 1000 words, so the saying goes. This is absolutely the case with Fly Fishing in New Zealand Lakes. David Hallett's photographs are stunning, evocative. They invite, they urge you to go fishing.
John Kent's
text is good, too. Since the mid-1990s he has written books that advise anglers where to go, what to do, which flies to use. Throughout, his research has been painstaking. Anglers can trust his words.
Kent has followed a proven formula with this latest book, this time focusing on the trout lakes with which New Zealand is blessed. He notes, for example, that we have 3820 lakes and tarns, many of them overlooked.
All told, Kent deals with 20 lakes - eight in the North Island and 12 in the South Island - devoting a chapter to each.
A double-page Hallett photo introduces each chapter.
These images must have taken a long time to assemble. Each beautifully captures the chapter and the mood and majesty of the water.
The invitation to read on is compelling. Hallett's in-chapter pics are also great .
Kent pays tribute to the Rotorua lakes. All too often Rotorua - a much more complex and challenging fishery - takes second place to Taupo.
He provides useful tips on Rotorua, Rotoiti, Tarawera and Okataina. For good measure for North Island anglers, he includes Anawhenua, Taupo, Waikaremoana and Otamangakau.
As well as the lakes, Kent writes with deep experience about tackle, trout food, options, the art of stalking and how to assess the water.
Kent and Hallett live in Christchurch. They have collaborated previously, winning an award for Classic Fly Fishing in New Zealand Rivers.
Fly Fishing in New Zealand Lakes is a handsome hardback and well worth adding to your collection.
