Top of the South with Manny Shchukin
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RSS Feed Episode 181 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – October 8, 2026.
Our destination is the South Island of New Zealand, world famous for large, wily trout, stunning scenery, and gin clear water. Joining me is backcountry guide and New Zealand expert, Manny Shchukin, with Manny Fishing Adventures, Nelson, New Zealand.
The South Island is classic sight fishing country where long leaders, tiny flies, and stealth are a must. Manny shares what it takes to fool these incredibly wary trout, why your first cast may be your only cast, and how he landed his personal best, a 13½-pound monster.
In this episode:
· Sight fishing for giant browns and rainbows in New Zealand’s crystal-clear water
· Why stealth, patience, and the first cast are so critical
· Going “full ninja” in camo to stalk wary backcountry trout
· How to spot fish, approach them, and make the right presentation
· The flies, leaders, and techniques that fool New Zealand trout
· What happens when anglers come face-to-face with their first big New Zealand fish
· Manny’s unforgettable 13½-pound personal-best trout
· A crazy battle with a big trout that disappears
· Sight-fishing and fish-fighting lessons you can use anywhere
With host Steve Haigh | Destination Angler Podcast — THE podcast for anglers who travel.
Connect with Manny: Instagram @mannyfishadventures
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Comments & Suggestions: host, Steve Haigh, email shaigh@DestinationAnglerPodcast.com
Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Recorded Sep 11, 2026