Dick was well respected by anglers from all corners of the planet. It was as if his role in life was to introduce as many people to flyfishing as he could – and he did. He was such a giver and generous to a fault.
When I was with Dick I felt like I was with David Attenborough, such was his phenomenal knowledge about and love for nature. He gave me an appreciation of nature which has proven priceless.
On one adventure on the water a pod of orca surfaced 30 metres from us and started flipping eagle rays off the bottom into the air and catching them in their wide open mouths. It was a sight to behold.
In recent years Dick had caught and released over 200 kingfish whilst wading the ‘flats’ of Tauranga Harbour, an achievement that likely will never be bettered. His biggest kingfish was 22kg on a flyrod.
I was so privileged to have had such a loyal and genuine friend, qualities he extended to all of his many friends.
RIP Dick and thank you so much for everything.
Was gutted to learn of Dick’s demise.
In 1996 Dick guided my wife and I to Lake Hawea and Upper Manorburn
My wife was termanilly ill and Dick showed us great lindness and compassion
My wife caught heaps of fish and that week was the most memorable in her life
Thank you Dick my old mate RIP
Pete Clarkson
Masterton