Fly Fishing Tools & Accessories
Fly fishing tools and accessories that make life on the river easier, from nippers, forceps and knot tyers to strike indicators, floatants and zingers. Our range features Simms, NZ Strike Indicator, Loon, C&F and Scientific Anglers.
Keep the essentials clipped to your pack so they are always within reach. Store them in our packs and storage range, and stock up on tippet and leaders.
Order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand, or click and collect from our Grey Lynn store or Westgate collection point at 4B Topere Way.
Frequently asked questions about fly fishing tools and accessories
What tools does every fly angler need?
The essentials are nippers for cutting tippet, forceps or pliers for removing hooks, floatant to keep dry flies on the surface, strike indicators for nymphing, and a spool of tippet. Zingers or retractors keep tools clipped to your pack within reach. A small knot tool helps with fine tippet, and a hook sharpener keeps your flies effective. Keep them clipped on securely.
What is a strike indicator and how do I use one?
A strike indicator is a small float attached to your leader that suspends a nymph at a set depth and shows when a trout takes the fly, by stopping, dipping or moving sideways. In New Zealand, wool indicators are popular because they land softly and are easy to adjust. Set the indicator roughly one and a half to two times the water depth above the fly.
Gel, powder or spray floatant - which should I use?
Gel floatants are rubbed into a dry fly before fishing to keep it floating. Powder or desiccant floatants dry out a waterlogged fly after catching a fish and restore its buoyancy. Spray and liquid floatants coat flies quickly. Many anglers carry a gel for preparing flies and a powder for reviving them, which keeps dry flies floating high all day.
Is a knot tying tool worth it?
A knot tying tool can make tying fine tippet and small flies much easier, especially in cold weather, low light or for anglers whose eyesight is not what it was. It helps you tie consistent knots like the clinch or nail knot quickly. Many experienced anglers tie by hand, but a small tool is a handy backup to clip to your pack. Practise with it at home before relying on it on the river.
Do I need a wading staff?
A wading staff gives you an extra point of contact on slippery, uneven river beds and in strong current, which makes crossing rivers safer, especially in New Zealand's swift, boulder-strewn rivers. Folding staffs pack away on your belt when not needed. They are particularly useful for anglers fishing alone, in unfamiliar water or in cold, fast rivers.
What are zingers and retractors for?
Zingers and retractors are small reels with retractable cords that clip to your vest or pack and hold tools like nippers and forceps. You pull the tool out when you need it, and it springs back into place when you let go, so it is always within reach and cannot be dropped in the river. They keep your most-used tools tidy and accessible. Choose corrosion-resistant ones.