With its stunning mountains and seemingly endless stretches of untamed nature, New Zealand is easily one of the most beautiful places in the world. Add to that outstanding freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities, and you've got a combo made in heaven. If you're coming here for the first time and you're not sure where to start, don't worry – there are plenty of fishing charters in New Zealand ready to help you out.
It doesn't matter if you're a freshwater enthusiast or a saltwater trophy chaser, in New Zealand, you can do both. The North Island is game fishing central – it boasts the biggest Striped Marlin fishery on the planet! Blue Marlin are just as popular, along with Yellowfin Tuna, Yellowtail Amberjack (Kingfish), Snapper, Hapuka and Trevally.
On the freshwater front, the action is just as good. In the unspoiled streams and mountain rivers of the South Island, you'll find copious amounts of big Rainbow and Brown Trout. Oh, and did we mention that Chinook Salmon (Quinnat) is also on the cards? In spring and summer, Quinnat swarm the streams of the South Island's east coast.
With so much biodiversity and land to cover, your safest bet is to turn to a New Zealand charter for guidance. Whether you plan on fly fishing somewhere in the wilderness or you're preparing for a multi-day Marlin hunt, a trustworthy skipper will make all the difference. Anything from half day trips to the bay to week-long fly fishing expeditions are available, you just need to take your pick. Auckland, Taupo, and Tairua all hold good numbers of charter boats that are at your disposal.
Rules & Regulations
Before you start fishing, you'll need a valid fishing licence, even if you're going out with a charter. There are several types of licences, so pick the one that suits you best and hit the water.