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!
Brown Trout
Hapuka
John Dory
Kahawai
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Salmon (Australian)
Salmon (Chinook)
Snapper (Pink)
Tarakihi
Trevally (Giant)
Tuna (Albacore)
Yellowtail Amberjack
