Posted 14th August 2025

Meet The Crew | Cate Lee

Bio/Background

I first caught the fishing bug at eight years old, after moving to a farm in the Waikato with a crystal-clear, spring-fed river running through it. Most summer evenings were spent on the water, chasing rainbow trout. After finishing school, I headed to the South Island, where I spent the next decade exploring its lakes, southern coastlines, and remote backcountry rivers. Now back home in the Waikato, I’ve found a new passion for saltwater fishing. There’s still plenty to learn, but I’m loving the adventures and the reward of harvesting fresh local seafood.

Specialty and Favourite Types of Fishing

Fly-fishing and softbaiting rivers and lakes has been the focus of my fishing adventures so far. There’s nothing like hiking deep into alpine country to chase wild brown and rainbow trout, surrounded by scenery that’s as rewarding as the catch itself.

Most Memorable Catch

Very hard to say but one of the most memorable catches would have to be my PB brown trout in the Twizel canals. After two full days of constant fishing, this massive brown trout smoked the softbait virtually at my rod tip. After a hectic 15 minute battle it was a relief to finally get in the net.

Daiwa Essentials

My go-to setup is the Daiwa TD Black Combo — the TD Black Canal Monster 862 paired with the TD Black 2500. Matched with Baitjunkie Minnows (especially in chartreuse), this combo is my weapon of choice for chasing big trout.

Favourite Fishing Spot

Most of my fishing has been in the South Island’s backcountry rivers, chasing massive brown trout. Definitely can’t beat exploring stunning water with mountains towering overhead, wildlife all around, and the chance at a huge trophy. As far as saltwater fishing goes, my favourite place so far has been fishing at Great Barrier...amazing scenery and plenty of snapper!