New Zealand Fishing Tours & Charters

In New Zealand, we offer a variety of fishing tours catering to diverse interests, skill levels, and fishing environments. Each tour type offers a unique way to engage with New Zealand's natural beauty and abundant aquatic life. Whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner, there's a fishing tour just right for you. Here are some types of tours you can look forward to:

• Freshwater Fishing Tours: Venture into New Zealand's pristine lakes and rivers, which are renowned for their trout and salmon populations. You can opt for a fly-fishing adventure, spin fishing, or trolling. Whether it's fishing in the famous Lake Taupo or exploring lesser-known waterways, the freshwater fishing experience in New Zealand is unmatched.
• Fly Fishing Tours: New Zealand is considered a top destination for fly fishing, with an abundance of rivers and lakes teeming with trout. Our guides will teach you the art of fly casting and the techniques to successfully hook and land a fish. These tours cater to both beginners and experienced fly fishers.
• Saltwater Fishing Tours: Experience the thrill of saltwater fishing in New Zealand's coastal waters. Catch species like snapper, kahawai, and kingfish while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. You can choose from beach, rock, or boat-based fishing tours.
• Deep-Sea Fishing Tours: For the more adventurous, we offer deep-sea fishing tours. Venture offshore into the open ocean to catch big game species like marlin, tuna, and swordfish. These trips often take you to some of New Zealand's most remote and untouched marine environments.
• Helicopter Fishing Tours: For a truly unique experience, try one of our helicopter fishing tours. Fly to remote and inaccessible fishing spots while enjoying breathtaking aerial views of New Zealand's landscapes. These tours provide an exclusive fishing adventure in some of the country's most secluded and abundant fishing grounds.

New Zealand waters are teeming with a diverse array of fish species. Here's a guide to some of the species you're likely to encounter during your fishing tour:

• Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): Found in freshwater rivers and lakes, rainbow trout are a favourite among fly-fishers. Their beautiful colours and strong, acrobatic fights make them a fun challenge for anglers.
• Brown Trout (Salmo trutta): Brown trout are native to Europe but have thrived in New Zealand's cool, clear waters. They can grow quite large and are known for their cunning and elusive nature.
• Kingfish (Seriola lalandi): Also known as Yellowtail Kingfish, these powerful fighters are a prized catch in saltwater fishing. They are found in warmer coastal waters, particularly in the North Island.
• Snapper (Pagrus auratus): Snapper are one of the most popular saltwater species in New Zealand, particularly in the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty. They can be caught year-round but are most abundant in warmer months.
• Blue Cod (Parapercis colias): Found in the cooler waters of the South Island, blue cod are a favourite catch due to their delicious taste. They are a target species in both inshore and offshore fishing.
• Marlin (Istiophoridae): New Zealand is a hotspot for marlin, especially the Bay of Islands. The Striped Marlin is the most caught, but Blue and Black Marlin are also found. These are big game fish, providing thrilling deep-sea fishing experiences.
• Salmon (Salmo): The most common salmon in New Zealand is the Chinook or King Salmon, introduced from North America. They are found in a few river systems in the South Island and are highly sought after for their size and taste.

Remember, each species has its best seasons and specific regulations regarding size and catch limits. Always respect these regulations to ensure sustainable fishing practices. Enjoy the thrill of catching these diverse species on your New Zealand fishing tour!

New Zealand is home to a vast range of fishing locations, each offering a unique angling experience. Here are some of the most popular fishing destinations that you may explore on our tours:

• Bay of Islands: Located in the North Island, the Bay of Islands is renowned for its spectacular coastal scenery and outstanding saltwater fishing. Here, you can target species such as kingfish, snapper, and even marlin in the summer months.
• Lake Taupo: As the largest lake in New Zealand, Lake Taupo is a premier location for trout fishing. The lake, along with the surrounding rivers, is teeming with both rainbow and brown trout.
• Fiordland: The Fiordland region in the South Island offers some of the best deep-sea fishing opportunities in the country. The rugged coastline and deep waters are home to a wide variety of fish, including blue cod, groper, and shark.
• Queenstown: Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown also offers fantastic fishing opportunities. The surrounding rivers and Lake Wakatipu are well-known for their abundant trout populations.
• Hauraki Gulf: Just a short distance from Auckland, the Hauraki Gulf is a popular destination for catching snapper and kingfish. The area is also a marine park, boasting a rich diversity of marine life.
• Kaikoura: On the east coast of the South Island, Kaikoura offers unique deep-sea fishing experiences. The area is famous for its crayfish, but you can also find groper, blue cod, and other species here.
• Tongariro River: Recognized as one of the greatest trout fisheries in the world, the Tongariro River is a must-visit for fly-fishing enthusiasts. It's particularly well-known for its winter-run of spawning rainbow trout.

These destinations showcase the best of New Zealand's fishing. No matter where you choose to cast your line, you'll be rewarded with not only fantastic fishing but also breathtaking natural beauty.

Embarking on a fishing tour in New Zealand can be a thrilling experience, even if you've never held a fishing rod before. Here's a beginner's guide to help you prepare for your first fishing adventure:

• Understanding Fishing Basics: Familiarize yourself with the basic principles of fishing, such as understanding the equipment (rod, reel, line, and hooks), learning how to cast, knowing how to bait a hook, and practicing the art of patient waiting.
• Types of Fishing: Learn about the different types of fishing you could be doing on your tour. For instance, fly fishing involves casting a lightweight lure that mimics a fly, while deep-sea fishing involves dropping heavy lines into the ocean to catch larger fish.
• Safety First: Safety is crucial when it comes to fishing. Always listen to your guide, wear a life jacket when on a boat, use sun protection, and stay hydrated. Handle hooks and other sharp equipment with care.
• Fish Species: Research the different species of fish you may encounter on your tour in New Zealand. Understanding the habits and diets of these fish can make your experience more successful and enjoyable.
• Reading the Water: Learn how to identify promising fishing spots. This might mean looking for areas where fish feed, such as near structures in the water or where currents converge.
• Catch and Release: In many locations and for certain species, you'll be practicing catch and release to conserve fish populations. Learn the proper techniques to handle and release fish to minimize harm.
• Local Rules and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local fishing rules and regulations, such as fishing seasons, bag limits, and size limits. In New Zealand, these can vary depending on the region and species.
• Respect Nature: Remember that you're a guest in nature's home. Leave no trace, respect wildlife, and help protect the beautiful environments you're fishing in.
• Learn from the Experts: As a beginner, don't hesitate to ask your guides questions. They have a wealth of knowledge and are there to help you.

Remember, fishing is as much about enjoying the experience and connecting with nature as it is about the catch. Enjoy your time in the great outdoors, and welcome to the world of fishing!

As we engage in fishing tours across New Zealand, we're deeply committed to preserving the health and vitality of our natural resources. Below are some of the sustainable practices that we adhere to:

• Catch and Release: In many cases, we encourage catch-and-release fishing. This practice helps maintain fish populations and ensures future anglers can enjoy the same thrill of fishing. We provide guidance on proper catch-and-release techniques to minimize stress and injury to the fish.
• Adherence to Regulations: We strictly follow all local fishing regulations, including respecting fishing seasons, size limits, and bag limits. These rules are designed to manage fishing pressure and protect fish stocks.
• Responsible Gear Use: We utilize fishing gear and techniques that minimize harm to fish and other marine life. This includes using circle hooks when appropriate, which are designed to hook fish in the mouth and reduce the chance of fatal injuries.
• Habitat Conservation: We strive to protect the waters and surrounding environments where we fish. This includes maintaining clean boats, disposing of all waste properly, and ensuring that we leave fishing spots as pristine as we found them.
• Eco-Friendly Operations: Beyond fishing, we aim to minimize our overall environmental footprint. We implement eco-friendly practices in our operations, such as using energy-efficient boats and promoting recycling.
• Education: We believe in educating our clients about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of conservation. We provide information on local ecosystems, the impact of overfishing, and how each person can contribute to preserving our fisheries for future generations.

Our commitment to sustainability ensures that our fishing tours not only provide an enjoyable experience for you but also contribute to the preservation of New Zealand's precious aquatic ecosystems.

New Zealand offers year-round fishing opportunities, but the availability of certain species varies throughout the year due to seasonal changes and conservation regulations. Here's a rough guide to the fishing seasons for some popular species:

• Rainbow Trout: The season typically runs from October through April, with the peak in summer months. The spawning run-in winter (June to August) can also be productive, especially in the Tongariro River.
• Brown Trout: Similar to rainbow trout, the brown trout season generally runs from October through April, but certain areas allow year-round fishing. The early season (October-November) and late season (March-April) are often the most productive.
• Kingfish: Kingfish can be caught year-round, but the peak season is usually during the warmer months, from December through April.
• Snapper: Snapper are present year-round, but they are more abundant in the warmer months, from November to April. The peak often occurs in February and March when they come inshore to spawn.
• Blue Cod: Blue cod can also be caught year-round, but the best fishing often happens during the cooler months (May through September) when they move into shallower waters.
• Marlin: Marlin fishing is seasonal, with the best catches typically happening from January through April.
• Salmon: The salmon runs in South Island rivers usually happen from November to April, with the peak in February and March.

Please note that these are general guidelines and can vary by region. Always check local regulations and consult with your fishing guide to understand the best times for fishing during your tour. Moreover, some areas may have specific closed seasons for conservation purposes.

While we provide most of the essential gear for your fishing tour, there are a few personal items you should consider bringing for your comfort and convenience. Here's a list to help you prepare:

• Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Bring a waterproof/windproof jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes. Gloves can also be useful in colder conditions.
• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the sun in New Zealand can be strong. Bring sunscreen with high SPF, lip balm with SPF, and a hat to shield your face.
• Personal Medication: If you have any personal medication or need seasickness remedies, ensure you bring them along.
• Fishing License: For freshwater fishing, you'll need a fishing license, which you should purchase prior to your tour. Saltwater fishing does not require a license in New Zealand.
• Food and Drinks: While some tours may provide food and drinks, you may wish to bring additional snacks or specific dietary items. Always check with your tour provider.
• Camera: You'll want to capture the beautiful scenery and your proud fishing moments, so don't forget your camera or smartphone.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important. A reusable water bottle is good for the environment and ensures you always have water on hand.
• Personal Fishing Gear: If you prefer using your own fishing gear, feel free to bring it along. However, it's always best to check with your tour provider about any specific equipment requirements.

Remember, the goal is to ensure you're comfortable and prepared for a day (or several days) out on the water. By having these personal items on hand, you can focus on the fishing and enjoy your New Zealand fishing tour to the fullest!