South Island

9 Fishing Charters

South Island Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in South Island

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South Island: 9 fishing charters available

Fiordland Fishing Guide

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Te Anau
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600

Fish & Cruise Wanaka

Excellent
4.9 / 5
(40 reviews)
Wanaka
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.

Ezifish Charters

Moeraki
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.

Queenstown Fishing - Nikita

Excellent
4.5 / 5
(11 reviews)
Queenstown
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.

Reliance Fishing Charter

Bluff
trips from $90

Moeraki Fishing Charters

Moeraki
trips from $102

Kaikoura Fishing Tours

Excellent
4.9 / 5
(61 reviews)
Kaikoura
trips from $36

Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura

Excellent
4.7 / 5
(70 reviews)
Kaikoura
trips from $72

Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Excellent
5.0 / 5
(7 reviews)
Franz Josef / Waiau
trips from $117

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in South Island

According to customer reviews, Fiordland Fishing Guide, Fish & Cruise Wanaka, and Ezifish Charters are some of the most popular fishing charters in South Island. Full list of top fishing charters in South Island.
The average price for a private 4 hour South Island fishing trip is $251, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $563 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.
Fish & Cruise Wanaka and Ezifish Charters received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in South Island.
The most popular fish species you can target are Blue Cod, Brown Trout, and Rainbow Trout (Steelhead). Top fishing techniques include Light Tackle, Spinning, and Bottom Fishing. Inshore fishing, offshore fishing, and lake fishing are commonly offered by local guides.
The fishing South Island, New Zealand has in store is nothing short of superb, whether it’s freshwater or saltwater you prefer. On the South Island, you can hook your biggest Brown Trout yet or cast your line in the ocean waters for a variety of exotic game fish – everything is in the cards.
 

Types of Fishing

Freshwater Fishing

The South Island is famous for its spectacular freshwater fisheries, especially among fly anglers. From Gore, which is known as the ‘Brown Trout Capital of the World’, to Dunedin, which sports some of the best Salmon fishing in the country, there’s something for everyone.
 
Brown Trout are the most popular catch, and they come both in great quality and quantity. Haast River on the west coast is a great place to hook a Brown lunker, and if you’re looking for more of a challenge, then the Upper Clutha River will provide all that and then some.
 
Another big player in the freshwater kingdom is Chinook Salmon, aka Quinnat. They can only be found in the south of the country and weigh around 10–15 pounds on average. The best time to go after Salmon is from October–April, as Chinook begin their long journey upstream. Some of the most productive rivers to target them are Rangitata, Rakaia, and Waitaki.
 

Saltwater Fishing

If saltwater fishing is the name of your game, the South Island will not disappoint. While the North Island is a treasure trove for big game fishermen, its southern counterpart offers excellent Snapper, Kahawai, Blue Cod, Tarakihi, and Yellowtail fishing.
 
Hard-fighting Trevally, Hapuka, and sizeable Albacore Tuna are there for the taking as well, so there’s plenty to choose from, depending on your fishing appetite. The high season is from spring until late autumn, though you can find a solid bite year-round. Looking for the best spot? Golden Bay is one of the most diverse fisheries where you can catch just about any of the mentioned favourites.
 

What to Expect

Depending on your fishing preferences, you could be fishing in national parks, remote streams, or wild rivers surrounded by breathtaking mountains.
 
Local freshwater guides offer half day excursions that can turn into a fun family outing if you come with the kids. Full day expeditions are better suited for experienced fishermen, especially if we’re talking fly fishing. If you’d like to fish in the ocean, you don’t have to go far from the shore to prowl reefs and wrecks for a great catch and bring home a delicious dinner.
 
Fishing gear is usually provided, but you’re welcome to bring yours if you’d like. On some charters, you’ll have water, soft drinks, and coffee, as well as a variety of snacks and lunch on full day trips.
 
Stay in touch with your skipper, and he’ll tell you everything about fishing licences and additional equipment you might need. After that, the fishing South Island, New Zealand boasts is your oyster!
 
South Island
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Based on 27733 reviews by FishingBooker anglers
January

The beginning of the year is a great time to target just about any species on the South Island. Salmon fishing is excellent, and Trout are biting as well. Pink Snapper, Giant Trevally, and Yellowtail are the prized catch in the saltwater.

February

It’s summer in New Zealand, and that can mean only one thing – it’s time to hit the water! Whether it’s Trout or Salmon, Yellowtail or Albacore Tuna, there’s a bit of something for everyone.

March

Autumn is just around the corner, the air is getting crisp, and Albacore Tuna, Giant Trevally, and Pink Snapper are all the craze. The Brown Trout action is on, while Chinook are leaving to spawn.

April

This is the time to go after Albacore Tuna, if you’re in the mood to chase giants of the deep. Yellowtail and Hapuka are very active, and Pink Snapper isn’t far behind.

May

As the temperatures are dropping, freshwater fishing is slowing down, but you can still find a decent bite. All the saltwater favourites are still on the menu, including Hapuka, Pink Snapper, Tarakihi, and more.

June
Going after Yellowtail will prove to be most productive in June, and you can hook Tarakihi and Hapuka in great numbers. Giant Trevally and Pink Snapper are also there for the taking.
July

Fish become lazier in the winter, but you can still have a great day on the water if you know where to go. This is the time to chase Tarakihi, Hapuka, and Yellowtail without going too far from the shore.

August

Hapuka, Yellowtail, or Tarakihi – the choice is yours. You can also test your hand in freshwater fishing and stumble upon a solid Trout bite.

September

The freshwater fish are looking forward to spring, which is just around the corner. While you wait for them to become more active, set your sights on Tarakihi, Hapuku, and Yellowtail.

October

Freshwater fishing is picking up, which means Brown Trout is the star of the show in the countless rivers, lakes, and streams of the South Island. On the saltwater front, Pink Snapper, Tarakihi, Yellowtail, and Hapuka are the main catch.

November

The Salmon are coming! If you’re itching for some Chinook fishing, November is the month to hit the water for the first trip of the season. Trout aren’t far behind.

December

Go after massive Pink Snapper, Giant Trevally, and Yellowtail in the ocean waters, or focus on Trout and Salmon fishing, which is fantastic at the end of the year.

South Island Fishing Calendar

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Do it. Kaikoura is a great spot for fishing and usually always go home with a good amount of fish
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Do it. Kaikoura is a great spot for fishing and usually always go home with a good amount of fish
Jo B.
Jo B. Christchurch, Canterbury
We picked Koura Bay fishing charter as they were recommended to us by my cousin who did a 2 hr fishing trip last month with them. Both 1st time anglers as we were ! They were very happy with the fishing experience, the service and the catch. We shared the same sentiments. Very experienced Captain Andy and crew. Great time. Would have been heaps better if the Mrs didn't get sea sickness !!
Excellent
4.7 / 5
We picked Koura Bay fishing charter as they were recommended to us by my cousin who did a 2 hr fishing trip last month with them. Both 1st time anglers as we were ! They were very happy with the fishing experience, the service and the catch. We shared the same sentiments. Very experienced Captain Andy and crew. Great time. Would have been heaps better if the Mrs didn't get sea sickness !!
John T.
John T. Auckland, Auckland
Level of experience not relevant - anyone can learn and the guide is happy to teach!
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Level of experience not relevant - anyone can learn and the guide is happy to teach!
Leonie C.
Leonie C. Brisbane, Queensland
Bring changeable clothing and listen to the captain advise about how to land your catch and you will have a great time with great veiws
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring changeable clothing and listen to the captain advise about how to land your catch and you will have a great time with great veiws
Robin K.
Robin K. Salisbury North, SA
It was my first experience fishing with Alan and he was great, tried different lures and areas of the lake to ensure we caught fish. Couldn't have asked for more.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
It was my first experience fishing with Alan and he was great, tried different lures and areas of the lake to ensure we caught fish. Couldn't have asked for more.
Keisha B.
Keisha B. New Zealand
Book a trip with Glacier Country Lake Tours. It's a great place to start and you won't be disappointed.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book a trip with Glacier Country Lake Tours. It's a great place to start and you won't be disappointed.
Mike B.
Mike B. Nelson, Nelson
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
I'm korean It was amazing and fantastic I caught a lot of fish in a short time since I was born I had a good experience
Jung A. L.
Jung A. L. Christchurch, Canterbury
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(70 reviews)
My son and granson wnet for two hours. They had a ball!! Caught some lovely fish that grandson helped crumb and cook for tea... very tasty. Great experience for an 8 yo ! Definately recommend doing this if you have time whilst in Kaikoura. Thank you to all concerned !
Kay B.
Kay B. New Zealand
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(70 reviews)
Awesome 3hr trip, didn't get to take pictures of the actual fish as was too busy fishing! Once one line was pulled up, bate was already put back on by Malcolm and it was time to send it back down. We caught heaps of yummy Perch and crayfish! Fantastic spots and we were accompanied by several Albatrosses and Mollymawks. Great experience, we definitely will be back.
Agata B.
Agata B. Christchurch, Canterbury
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip, it was the first experience fishing on the ocean, and the crew made it an effortless, enjoyable trip. Super friendly and helpful with everything! We'll start planning the next one...!
Vahur O.
Vahur O. Christchurch, Canterbury
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Who would have thought that you can catch loads of fish, watch the albatross, see dolphins and have a crayfish for lunch all in one package ??
Oscar O.
Oscar O.
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Our family had an amazing time fishing with the crew. It was a great experience for our 5 & 7 year old children and they were engaged for every minute of it. It was great that they shared rods with us as it was a little too heavy for them to reel up the fish! We would highly recommend this tour.
Ingrid F.
Ingrid F. Christchurch, Canterbury
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Fishing charter in Franz Josef / Waiau
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(7 reviews)
3hour fishing trip with my wife and 4 other guests. Captain Dale was friendly and informative, eagerly sharing knowledge and experience in fishing and all things New Zealand. Had a great time enjoying the views and company even though we were unable to bring home a prize despite our efforts. Cheers to Capt Dale for getting his feet wet in hopes to catch us a fish!
Dillon K.
Dillon K. Christchurch, Canterbury
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Highly recommended fishing charter. Tomo, Shane & Luca were amazing hosts and took great care in ensuring that the 6 of us on board had a safe and enjoyable experience. Fantastic value for money. Heaps of fish and Cray's caught that was prepared and bagged ready to take away once we returned. Look forward to doing again sometime when we're back in the area.
Luke T.
Luke T. New Zealand
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Very experienced and kind crew. We had a great time and recommend it to everyone experienced or not. Thank you, guys! Hans and Lisette
Hans U.
Hans U. New Zealand
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(70 reviews)
The booking app is really set for the Yankee market & NOT NZ. The wharf location ?description could be a bit better detail/location wise - I say that because IF you're a local it;s no issue, but if not & unfamiliar with the area could be a little problem, it's easily sorted though. Skipper was and is FIRST CLASS.
Russ W.
Russ W. Harrison Township, NJ
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
Hi .The fishing trip was very successful .Caught loads of fish .Malcolm was very knowledgeable and did a fantastic job .I would recommend it to everyone ,Cheers Malcolm
Andrew L.
Andrew L. South Harrison, NJ
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
I personally didn't attend the trip today but my partner and his brothers did. They returned to Christchurch over the moon about their time out on the boat today. They had an extremely great time so much fun,very sick haha. Captain Malcom was a breeze to contact and always responded fast, the guys had a blast today so thank you so much! They will definitely be back.
Holley F. F.
Holley F. F. Christchurch, Canterbury
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Fishing charter in Franz Josef / Waiau
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(7 reviews)
Great trip, relaxed, informative and I caught some fish - 6 salmon hubby caught 3 salmon. Dale was friendly, professional and easy to talk to. Recommended!!
Roseanne G.
Roseanne G. Christchurch, Canterbury
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Big thanks to Thomo and Shane. Challenging conditions led to some sea sick fishermen who were kindly returned to shore then back out to fish with only 3 sturdy customers remaining. Caught plenty of fish and pulled two loaded cray pots. Great trip with great people.
Geoff S.
Geoff S. Auckland, Auckland
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
Captain Malcolm guided his craft to perfection through some tricky water and was not happy until we were right on the fish. Everyone caught plenty of fish and a highlight on the way back was pulling a pot loaded with lobsters. What a great trip!!
Geoff S.
Geoff S. Auckland, Auckland
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
Malcolm is a knowledgeable and fun skipper. We felt safe and in good hands in his great boat. Highly recommend!
Hugo Z.
Hugo Z. Nelson, Nelson
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Kaikoura Fishing Tours
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Best fishing experience myself and the rest of the team have experienced, conditions couldnโ€™t of been better. The crew have this down to a fine art with how they work. We will be back again with the team for another adventure, blue nose maybe next time? 10/10 for Kaikoura fishing tours
Graham B.
Graham B. Oxford, Canterbury
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
Great trip Malcolm. Thanks for your flexibility and looking forward to adding in the hunting to a fish as well, next time weโ€™re up your way.
Blair R.
Blair R. Mantua Township, NJ
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
Great time with Malcom and a great haul of fish to bring home. Really worth the trip and experience.
Melanie U.
Melanie U. Springfield, NJ
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Top Catch Charters โ€“ Kaikoura
Fishing charter in Kaikoura
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(70 reviews)
Great to spend the morning with Malcolm. Was lucky enough to come away with a delicious Cray. Catch up again soon Malcolm, many thanks Vince
Vince K.
Vince K. Christchurch, Canterbury