Ciao Andrea - the Italian fly fishing New Zealand

Andrea Mattioli quickly became a legend under fly fisherman in Auckland when he began working at a local shop Rod and Reel.

When the shop closed everyone missed his no nonsense approach, humour and willingness to talk fishing for hours.

In this podcast he tells me about growing up in Italy and fishing in the traditional 'al tocco' style since he was a kid.

He tells me how in the region where he grew up the biggest decision a kid makes is picking between soccer or motorbike racing, he chose racing.

We talk about catching marble trout in Italy.

He tells my about the connection he feels with fish when he catches them on dry fly.

We talk about fishing for Instagram.

And how he now fishes while carrying his 11 month old son on his back.

All music by Jacques van Wyk