When the temperature drops, the fishing fires up. Winter is one of the best times to be on the water in New Zealand. Trout are in peak condition, rivers are clear, and the crowds have thinned out.

Winter fishing is running hot

Whether you’re chasing hard-fighting rainbows or stalking big browns, this is your season. And now there’s even more reason to get out there because we’re running a winter fishing photo competition with Latitude Fly Gear with a premium prize pack up for grabs. 

 

Share your best winter fishing moment

Winter fishing is an experience worth having, so get out there and have it. The crisp air, the quiet water, the thrill of a fish on the line. When a moment like that comes together, snap it.  

Share a photo from your winter fishing adventure for your chance to win a premium Latitude Fly Gear prize pack worth hundreds of dollars and receive a 20% discount code off the full BackcountrySkinz product range just for entering.  

  • Enter your details below to enter your photograph
  • Entries close 31 August 2026. 
     
The prize pack

The winner receives a premium kit from Latitude Fly Gear: 

  • SherpaShell 30L Submersible Backpack fully waterproof 900D TPU construction, 30L waterproof main compartment, submersible pouch, multiple attachment points and internal organisation. Built to keep your gear and electronics protected in all conditions. 
  • Z-Series Neoprene Compression Pants1mm ultra-stretch neoprene, compression fit, ideal for wet wading, kayak fishing, surf fishing, hiking and hunting. Available in Forest or Stealth Camo (subject to stock availability).
  • 1st Gen Z-Drainz Gravel Guard Wading Socks 3mm neoprene construction with built-in gravel guard, reinforced lace hook, and advanced drainage technology. Available in S, M, L, XL and 2XL.
  • Backcountry Cap
  • Plus: every entrant receives a 20% discount code off the full BackcountrySkinz product range, valid until 31 August 2026. Subject to stock availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. 
     
Why fish in winter

Fewer anglers on the water means more room to explore your favourite spots or find new ones. Trout are strong and healthy through the winter months, and spawning activity can make them more aggressive and more likely to take your fly or lure. 

 

Winter licences

Winter season licences are on sale now, giving you access right through to the end of September. An adult winter season licence is $94 which is outstanding value for months of fishing. Adult day licences are available for $25, junior day licences (12–17 years) are $6, and under-12s fish for free.

Buy your licence online

 

Winter fishing locations by region

Great fishing is within reach no matter where you are in New Zealand. Browse your region by clicking the link to find your nearest winter waters. 

Winter fishing

 

Thank you to our sponsor

A huge thank you to our competition sponsor Latitude Fly Gear for making this prize pack possible. Latitude Fly Gear design and build serious outdoor gear for serious outdoor people and this prize pack is a brilliant example of what they do. We’re stoked to have their support for our winter fishing campaign and can’t wait to see the entries come in.

 

Terms & Conditions

View Terms & Conditions here.

 

Step 1: Select your photo.

Step 2: Tell us about it.

Step 3: Accept T&C's and upload your entry