Fishing in New Zealand

Where to fish

Excellent freshwater fishing is available throughout New Zealand. Three of New Zealand’s best known fishing regions include Lake Taupo, Lake Rotorua and the Southland. To help you get the most from your visit, each of these regions has an information centre which promotes fishing and offers a range of visitor services.

In the North Island you would be hard pushed to beat the Central North Island, Taupo in particular but also Rotorua. Personally I would go straight to Turangi and fish the Tongariro with Size 8 rod and heavily weighted nymphs for migrating rainbows from Lake Taupo. Numerous other rivers and lakes are also in the immediate vicinity. Also, keep in mind that the Tongariro trout average around 4-6 lb (20-26 inches) and thus will be more like fishing for North American steelhead.

The South Island is more of a problem in that although the scenery and fishing can be better than the north, you will have to travel further and local knowledge is paramount. My best suggestion for plenty of variety would be Nelson and the Nelson Lakes, Buller river system. Most of the Southern lakes are great, but don’t go past the Waitaki River in North Otago. Under the Avimore dam, there are some reed beds which produced some of the most pleasant evenings fly fishing I’ve had in years. The Waitaki is best fished in the clear side streams away from the main river. A good spot being 1-2 km downstream from the junction of the Hakataramea river on the north side. For staggering scenery and fine trout fishing check out the North Mavora lakes, or if you enjoy arid country, consider Lake Benmore.

Fishing Licences

Don’t forget to get a fishing license, and take note of what region it covers and the restrictions on lures etc. Fishing licences are available from fishing guides, lodges, visitor centres and charter boat operators. The cost is about NZ$18 per day but it depends on the time of the year. Keep in mind a different fishing licence is required to fish Lake Taupo.

Boat Fishing

Lake fishing from charter boats either trolling or fly fishing is available around the North Island lakes of Rotorua and Taupo, and the Nelson and Southern Lakes regions of the South Island.

Some areas are able to be fished year round and provide excellent sport. Boats range from 14ft runabouts to 52 ft launches catering for larger groups, incentive parties and those wishing to overnight onboard. Charter boat skippers supply all fishing gear and offer expert advice and knowledge on the area.

Guides

New Zealand is a wild trout fishery and the emphasis is very much on quality rather than quantity. We certainly have got the trophy fish - but big fish are generally smart fish. To make your visit a successful one, we strongly recommend making use of a professional guide.

Experienced guides know the moods of local rivers and the weather, often have access arrangements and will provide transport, and they can help you adjust your technique to the different conditions.

Because our resource is a precious one, professional guiding is normally on a catch and release basis.

Accommodation

A key feature of fishing in New Zealand is the warm hospitality encountered by the visiting angler. Specialist fishing lodges, often located in pristine wilderness settings, have won worldwide renown. Fresh local produce and New Zealand wines are a highlight of a New Zealand lodge experience.

Also available is a range of accommodation options from 3-4 star hotels, self-contained motel units, and bed and breakfast accommodation - all catering to the visiting angler.