New Zealand, or the Land of the White Cloud, is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. Spectacular views, friendly people living at one with nature and “waters as clear as air” are only a few of the things that will steal your heart. The fact that locals are master fishermen and that fishing in New Zealand is fantastic only adds to its already significant appeal.
The country consists of North Island and South Island, both of which offer an abundance of fishing opportunities. Whether you’re looking for ocean fishing in the north or freshwater action in the south, the sky is the limit.
Best Fish to Catch in New Zealand
The better question is what can’t you catch. New Zealand is known for its premier saltwater fishing, as well as some of the world’s most prolific Trout fisheries. But where do you start? We’ll talk you through all the most sought-after catches, and it’s up to you to decide what you’d like to try first.
Billfish in All Their Splendour
Let’s start with saltwater fishing in New Zealand, which in itself merits an encyclopedia. The first thing that’s on everyone’s mind when someone mentions deep sea fishing here is Billfish. Specifically, Blue and Striped Marlin.
From January to May, the king of game fish show up in the South Pacific. Some of the biggest Striped Marlin live and hunt in these waters. The current world record Stripey was caught here. They can weigh anywhere from 50 kilograms to more than a whopping 200 kilograms. Since commercial fishing for Marlin is prohibited, trophy-sized catches are reserved for recreational fishermen.
It’s a similar story with the mighty Blue Marlin. They can be twice as big as their Striped relatives (up to 400 kilograms!), though they usually average out at 200 kilograms. Both Marlin love warm waters 75–220 metres deep. Marlin stick to the northern end of the North Island, where sometimes you have to brave choppy waters and long distances to find them.
Broadbill Swordfish are another prized catch that thrives in the Bay of Islands and beyond. They’re most active in late summer and fall when sport anglers venture far offshore to get to their domain. Swordfish prefer the waters hundreds of meters deep, and deep dropping live bait will get their attention. These magnificent beasts can weigh well over 200 kilograms and will gobble down live bait if you dangle in front of them.
Care for some Tuna?
Where there’s a clear warm ocean, you’ll find Tuna. These fish love New Zealand’s offshore waters, and in the summer months, Southern Bluefin, Yellowfin, Skipjack and Albacore Tuna are on the menu.
Just like Billfish, Tuna prefer Northland waters, where they camp out in the summer months. Yellowfins are most common – they’re smaller than their northern counterparts, rarely weighing over 40 kilograms.
Southern Bluefin Tuna are rarer, and you usually need to go on multi-day expeditions to get to them. Bluefins can be ten times the size of Yellowfins and reeling one in is like battling a freight train. Night fishing can be particularly productive because that’s when they feed close to the surface.
You can entice Tuna with different kinds of setups, from trolling lures on downriggers to cubing dead bait and throwing it around the boat. They respond well to a variety of live bait as well, including squid, flying fish, small Skipjack Tuna and anchovies.
Fishing for Kingfish in New Zealand
You didn’t think world fishing records in New Zealand were limited only to Marlin, did you? Yellowtail Kingfish are one of the most abundant species in the country and the biggest one ever caught was reeled in the NZ’s waters.
Kingfish are among the most popular and beloved catches in the country. That’s got to do with the fact that they’re fierce fighters that make for fabulous eating. They can weigh 10–25 kilograms, which doesn’t hurt their reputation either. Kingfish usually move around in schools, so the chance of multiple hook-ups is always an option.
These beauts like to feed around reefs and rocks, and all are a good place to look for them. You can find them in sheltered bays, while bigger specimens roam the open ocean. Kingfish are one of New Zealand’s “bread and butter” fish and they live around both main islands, though more of them prefer northern parts of the country.
Everybody Loves Snapper
When in doubt about what to fish for, you can always go after Snapper. Similar to Kingfish, Snapper can be found in most habitats, only there’s even more of them. They’re probably the most commonly caught fish in New Zealand.
Snapper prefer shallower coastal areas, though you’ll frequently find them around reefs. Bigger fish hunt in the waters up to 200 metres deep. This species varies in size, from 2–15 kilograms, and they’re the perfect fish to target on family fishing trips.
You can often go after Kingfish and Snapper on the same outing because they feed in similar conditions. Another reason these pinkish fish are so loved is because of their superb taste. When you go fishing for these fellas, you can be sure you won’t stay hungry.
Snapper eat crustaceans and shellfish, but they won’t turn down squid either. There’s plenty of them around the North Island, especially in the Doubtless Bay, Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Plenty and Bay of Islands.
And So Much More…
While the above fish are the stars of recreational fishing in New Zealand, there’s a lot more to catch here.
Kahawai and Tarakihi are local favorites, both because there’s a lot of them and because they’re fun to catch. Hapuka, Gurnard and John Dory are also on the cards, as well as Blue Cod, Trevally and Maomao. Depending on where you go, most of these species are available to you. If there’s one thing you can say about New Zealand’s fisheries, it’s that they’re as diverse as they are abundant.
Freshwater Fishing Species in New Zealand
The beating heart of the Land of the Kiwis is its fast-running rivers, countless mountain streams and gorgeous lakes. In most of these waterways, Trout reign supreme. Add to that Quinnat (King Salmon), and you’ve got a dream-come-true fishery.
South Island is the epicenter of freshwater action – just about anywhere you go, you could hook into something good. Let’s talk more about what makes freshwater fishing in New Zealand special.
Trout: The Unquestioned Champions
There’s an ongoing debate about whether Rainbow or Brown Trout are more loved around New Zealand. Both species enjoy the crystal clear waters that abound in the country’s wilderness. You can go Trout fishing any time of the year and be successful, but late autumn is their peak.
Brown Trout are considered the trickiest to catch because they spook easily. They’re also bigger of the two species and can weigh anywhere from 2–10 kilograms. Fly casters agree that this is the hardest fish to deceive using a fly – this is where the sport of fly fishing turns into an art.
There are also sea-run Brown Trout, silver with dark spots, very different from their river-dwelling relatives. Sometimes these guys look more like Rainbows at a glance, but local anglers can tell the difference.
All this doesn’t mean that Rainbows are any less popular, not by a long shot. There are fewer of them, but they still fight with wild abandon – their jumps and acrobatics will wow you. Rainbow Trout are smaller too, and usually weigh up to 2 kg, but there are trophies that can grow to be twice as big.
Fly fishing for Trout is a big deal in New Zealand and one that can provide days of excitement in the untouched nature. There are many expert guides who offer tailored fishing expeditions, so all you need to do is choose.
A Word on Salmon
While Trout are the most numerous freshwater fish in NZ, Chinook Salmon, aka Quinnat, are the biggest. A lot of people don’t even know that the country has a Salmon run in spring and summer. But if you head to the rivers on the eastern part of the South Island, you’ll be treated to a strong Salmon bite.
These Spring Salmon are smaller than those in the northern hemisphere. That’s because they feed in the ocean only for a few years before returning to the rivers. As they make their way upstream to their spawning grounds, they weigh 5–7 kilograms.
If you plan on going after Quinnat, bear in mind that they travel and feed close to the bottom and prefer the deepest parts of the rivers. As the season progresses, they move from east to west of the South Island and fishermen religiously follow. Some of the top Salmon fishing spots in New Zealand are Waitaki, Waimakariri and Rakaia Rivers.
How to Go Fishing in New Zealand
Deep Sea Fishing with a Charter
If you’ve set your sights on the most prized game fish, the first order of business is finding a skipper. The weather in New Zealand is unpredictable, the swell even more so, and having a professional lead the way makes all the difference.
All the tackle, a boat, and a trusty crew are included in your trip, so you don’t need extra preparations. Setting out to search for a grander Marlin or a Tuna isn’t for the faint of heart, so it’s important to communicate your expectations clearly to your guide.
To make things easier, skippers offer different types of expeditions for every preference. If you’re still getting your sea legs, we’d recommend day trips. On the other side, seasoned anglers spend days on the ocean, prowling the deep for the biggest fish they can find. It’s all about what you’d like to do and how.
Fly Fishing in New Zealand
Going fly fishing in mountainous New Zealand is something that has to be experienced. Thanks to some fantastic Trout fisheries, fly fishing holds a special place in Kiwis’ hearts, and traveling anglers flock here for the taste of the action.
Both North and South Islands have their own distinct fly fishing scenes, though the first is better known for Rainbow and the latter for Brown Trout. The choice of gear, spots, and time of day is a science in itself, and there are a lot of skilled guides to help you out. The best time to go fly fishing is in spring and summer.
Another advantage of fly fishing is that you can do it very close to urban areas or lose yourself in the wilderness. There are lodges deep in the mountains where you can spend days enjoying premier Trout fishing.
Some guides even organise helicopter fishing adventures. They’ll take you by helicopter to the most remote and unspoiled fishing grounds, where only gurgling water and thrashing Trout will keep you company.
Kayak Fishing in New Zealand
Maybe, when it comes to fishing, you prefer to take matters into your own hands. For self-reliant anglers, kayak fishing is a great way to see the country from a new perspective. Not to mention that you might get a few fish on the line for dinner.
With its many bays and sheltered waters, New Zealand has a lot to offer passionate kayakers. There are plenty of kayak rental shops and operators that can help you sort everything out. Cast a line around the nearby reefs for Snapper and Kingfish; head a few miles out, to choppier waters, and you might snatch a Trevally or smaller game fish.
The beauty of kayak fishing in New Zealand is that it can be as relaxing or demanding as you’d like. As long as you’re being careful, you’ll have a blast.
New Zealand Fishing Spots
Finding a place to fish won’t be hard in New Zealand. As long as you’ve got your basic gear and a body of water close to you, chances are you’ll have fun. Here ar some hotspots worth your attention and time!
Saltwater Fishing Spots
- Wellington: The capital of New Zealand is a must-fish destination. From the harbor, you can target Tarakihi, Kahawai, Kingfish and Snapper, and there are plenty of charters to take you deep sea fishing.
- Bay of Islands: Arguably the best saltwater fishing spot in the country, the Bay of Islands in Northland is famous for its Marlin and Tuna. Dubbed as “Angler’s Eldorado,” the bay offers quick access to a slew of species, big and small.
- Dunedin: If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, the name rings a bell, but if you’re a fisherman, even more so. This is one of the top spots for targeting Salmon and all kinds of reef fish in Wickliffe Bay.
- Bay of Plenty: A popular gathering place for game fish chasers, Bay of Plenty is a treasure trove. If you feel like you’re ready for a Yellowfin Tuna hunt, this is the place for you.
- Marlborough: With its sounds and bays, Marlborough is a great place for kayak fishermen. Kingfish and Snapper are on the menu, and of course, beautiful nature.
Freshwater Fishing Spots
- Lake Taupo: This body of water needs no introduction. It offers some of the best freshwater fishing grounds in New Zealand, with plenty of Rainbow and Brown Trout only a cast away.
- Tongariro River: Locals swear by this river’s mighty waters and the Trout that live in them. The town of Tūrangi, on the river’s coast, is where Trout chasers come to test their skills against the resident Rainbows and Browns.
- Rotorua: The lake and the city share a name and a stellar fishing reputation. With the Ngongotaha Stream in the middle of it all, and several interconnected lakes, you better believe that the Trout population is thriving.
- Haast River: This is the place to be when you’re going impressive-sized Brown Trout. You’ll find it on the west side of the South Island, and the best time to visit it is in late spring.
- Gore: Nestled right on the Mataura River, Gore is the home of an excellent Brown Trout bite in Southland. Come down as soon as the weather gets warmer, and you’ll see just how thrilling the action can get.
New Zealand Fishing Rules and Regulations
Kiwis are extremely mindful of the impact they have on their fisheries, and their environmental awareness is exemplary. That’s why there’s a set of country-wide fishing regulations that should be followed, and every region has its own rules as well.
Before you hit the water, you’ll need to buy an appropriate fishing licence. This is the case whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater, solo or with a guide. There are different types of licences to choose from, depending on where and how long you’d like to fish.
If you’re fishing on your own, make sure you’re familiar with daily limits and seasons for different species. Some regions, like Hauraki Gulf have special rules in place, so educate yourself before you go. You can also download the official NZ Fishing Rules app, to always stay on top of things.
Fishing in New Zealand, the Land of Infinite Wonder
There’s no word to describe the unique beauty of New Zealand, one has to get immersed in it to feel it fully. The same goes for local angling thrills. Reading about it won’t cut it – you’ve got to feel it first-hand. In the end, fishing in New Zealand is a mix of everything outdoor enthusiasts could hope for – stunning views and crystal clear waters brimming with fish!
Have you ever been fishing in New Zealand? What are your experiences? Is there something we missed? Let’s talk in the comment section.
