Dullstroom, Mpumalanga · Guided stillwater & river trout trips
Private dams, seasonal river pools and expert dry-fly coaching — perfect for weekend escapes from Johannesburg and Pretoria.
A privately owned retreat just outside Dullstroom—serene dams, seasonal river pools, and rich biodiversity. Expect fish eagles overhead, otter tracks at the edges, and glassy morning slicks. We also guide Laverpa stillwaters nearby, so we can match your trip to the venue that best suits your goals, group and skill level.
Travel
±2.5–3 hours from Johannesburg — ideal for a one or two-night escape.
Water
Multiple dams plus a managed river section with sight-fishing opportunities in season.
Style
Dry flies, suspender patterns and subtle nymphs — fished with confidence and a calm head.
Need somewhere to stay in Dullstroom? See our accommodation notes.
The estate actively manages inflows and stocking to keep dams clear and fish in good condition. In cooler months, water clarity and temperature line up beautifully for dry flies and subtle nymphing.
For timing your trip, have a look at our Dullstroom fly fishing seasons guide.
Seasonal patterns at Valley of the Rainbow follow typical highveld stillwater cycles — cooler months mean happy fish near the surface and consistent daytime activity.
We’ll help you choose flies from our Best Dry Flies for Dullstroom list and match them to the day.
There’s a difference between simply fishing Valley of the Rainbow and fishing it with a guide who knows the moods of the water, the wind shifts and how the trout behave in each dam and pool.
We spend our time on a handful of carefully chosen venues around Dullstroom. You benefit from up-to-date intel on where fish are holding, what they’re feeding on and which presentations are currently working.
We specialise in dry-fly and light nymph tactics. Expect coaching on casting angles, drifts, mends and reading subtle takes — not just being told where to stand.
From helping choose flies and leaders to netting fish and taking photos, we keep the admin light so you can focus on the takes, the scenery and the company.
Both venues fish well and we guide them regularly. The right choice depends on how you like to fish and who’s joining you. Here’s a simple side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
Classic Stillwater · Private Day Water
A focused stillwater venue with clear banks, weedlines and frequent sight-fishing. Perfect for technical dry/dropper work and anglers who want to concentrate on one water for the day.
Best pick if you want a pure stillwater mission and to really lean into dry-fly skills.
Estate Venue · Dams & Seasonal River
A trout estate with multiple dams, a managed river section and on-site accommodation. Great for mixed groups, couples’ weekends and anglers who want scenery and variety, not just a single dam.
Best pick if you’re planning a weekend away with fishing, nature and relaxed estate vibes in one place.
Still not sure? When you send a booking enquiry, mention whether you prefer Laverpa, Rainbow Valley or simply “best venue for conditions” and we’ll recommend the right water for your dates.
Trips are tailored to your skill level and the season. Whether you want a focused technical session or a relaxed day where everyone gets a fair shot, we’ll build the day around you.
Don’t have gear? Let us know when you book and we’ll arrange suitable rental setups.
Rates below are for guiding only and exclude estate day-visit / rod fees and accommodation, which are settled directly with Valley of the Rainbow. Custom quotes are available for larger groups and corporate days.
R3,500
Ideal if you want focused coaching, technical dry-fly time and space to work through different waters on the estate.
R6,000
Great value for couples, friends or parent-and-child trips. We balance time so everyone gets good shots.
Half-day options, multi-day packages and corporate bookings at Valley of the Rainbow or other Dullstroom venues are available on request.
We operate from Johannesburg and travel to Dullstroom and surrounding Mpumalanga venues. Year-round guiding, all skill levels welcome.
Autumn (Mar–May) and Spring (Sep–Nov) offer the best mix of water temperature and hatch activity for dry flies. Winter can be excellent for clear, technical sessions. Summer trips focus on early and late light.
Primarily rainbow trout with the occasional brown trout in the dams and, when levels are right, trout in the managed river section.
No. We regularly guide complete beginners. We’ll start with the basics and build confidence at a pace that suits you.
Yes. The estate is a great space for partners or family members who want to relax, walk, read or photograph while you fish. Just let us know when you book.
You’re welcome to bring your own gear. If you don’t have suitable tackle, we can arrange rods, reels and terminal tackle with prior notice.
We’ll confirm meeting details when you book. Typically we meet either at the estate gate or at an agreed spot in Dullstroom before heading through together.
