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Fishing in New Zealand > Getting started
Getting started
Fly Fishing
Spin Fishing
Where to fish
No matter what fishing experience you seek you can find it. Anglers can stalk trout in small West Coast spring creeks, go trolling around a North Island lake, tramp into headwaters to target trophy sized trout, chase salmon in the large braided South Island rivers or cast to cruisers around high country lakes in Canterbury.
It is important to have realistic expectations. Often people have visions of catching large numbers of big fish. This is seldom the case, but if you have the time to maximise your opportunities then your chances improve. Some areas and fisheries offer good opportunities to catch trout while some rivers and lakes in other parts of the country contain less fish which are more difficult to catch
Each region has its own fishing regulations and it is important to ensure you comply with them. Regulations are printed in a booklet which is provided free of charge when you purchase a licence. The booklet also contains access and fishing information for every region. Fishing guides and fishing access
Overseas anglers do not require the services of a guide to fish in New Zealand. While many anglers do use guides, detailed fishing information and pamphlets can be easily acquired from local sports shops and Fish and Game New Zealand offices. Seasons
Each season offers its own unique fishing experience. Spring is a great time to target hungry trout that are feeding hard and trying to regain condition after the winter. It is also a great time to catch large sea run trout that enter many coastal rivers from the sea.
In Summer epitomises, warm days and well conditioned free rising trout typify the fishing experience throughout the country. Summer is also the time that lake trout are busy feeding on smaller fish and trolling is an effective method to target them.
January, February and March also offer the best opportunities to catch large salmon in the braided rivers of the East Coast of the South Island as they enter the rivers from the Pacific Ocean to begin their epic spawning journey.
Autumn offers superb fishing. The water is cooler and the fish more active. With few people around it is easy to find a secluded spot, and mid afternoon insect hatches can encourage fish to feed actively.
Winter offers differing degrees of fishing opportunities and each region has its own winter regulations. In some areas such as the Rotorua lakes and Lake Taupo the fishing is stunning as large numbers of trout move into the rivers to spawn. In other areas there are less opportunities to fish during the winter, often the result of the cooler weather temperatures. Equipment
Equipment will vary depending on the location and timing of your fishing. For fly fishers a six or seven weight fly rod with a weight forward or double taper line, nine foot leader and plenty of backing will be adequate for most fishing conditions. If you wish to target smaller waters a five weight rod would be more appropriate as would an eight weight rod when targeting large rivers or lakes in the winter.
Shore based spin anglers should use a 6’6 or 7’ rod and good quality reel with 6 pound line. Small 7gram or 10gram lures such as Cobras, Rapalas and Tobys work most effectively. Salmon fishing requires specialised equipment.
Anglers wishing to target lake trout can also use techniques such as jigging, lead lining, trolling and harling.
Local sports shops and Fish and Game New Zealand offices provide detailed information on all fishing techniques.
Fishing flies are not confiscated by New Zealand Customs officials when you arrive in the country. While it can be tempting to carry a large number of different patterns and sizes most New Zealand anglers agree that it is better to carry a smaller selection of patterns in a good variety of sizes. Most North American and British patterns work effectively in New Zealand.
A wide brimmed hat is essential as is quality sun screen during the summer. Generally you can wade in shorts but lightweight trousers or waders are often used.
For more information, contact a regional Fish & Game office or the New Zealand Council on (04) 499 4767 or fax (04) 499 4768
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