✓ Verified Expert
Ben Kepka
Founder & Lead Gear Reviewer
I founded Fly Fisher Pro in 2018 to share the knowledge I’ve gained from 25+ years of fly fishing in New Zealand’s legendary backcountry waters. I’ve spent thousands of hours testing fly rods, reels, and gear in real fishing conditions—not just in a parking lot. Every review I write comes from actual time on the water, chasing trout in the rivers I grew up fishing.
25+
Years Fly Fishing
200+
Products Tested
150+
Articles Written
Credentials & Background
MBSc, Victoria University
Master of Business Science from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
Trout Unlimited Member
Active member of Trout Unlimited, supporting coldwater fisheries conservation
Published Since 2018
Hundreds of gear reviews and fly fishing guides published and continuously updated
Fly Fishing Journey
2018 – Present
Founded Fly Fisher Pro
Created Fly Fisher Pro to help anglers make informed gear decisions based on real-world testing. Built a team of professional guides and experienced anglers to provide trustworthy reviews.
2005 – 2018
Backcountry Guide & Angler
Spent over a decade guiding and fishing New Zealand's South Island backcountry—some of the most technical sight-fishing for brown trout in the world. Developed deep expertise in gear performance under demanding conditions.
1998 – 2005
Transition to Fly Fishing
Made the switch from spin fishing to fly fishing after seeing trout refuse lures but take flies. Never looked back. Spent years mastering different techniques and understanding what makes quality gear.
Childhood
First Fishing Experiences
Grew up fishing drainage ditches for longfin eels in New Zealand. Explored local rivers from sea to source—some trips over 70km. Developed a lifelong passion for freshwater fishing.
Areas of Expertise
Recent Articles by Ben
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