Freshwater fishing

New Zealand is one of the world's great fishing countries. Trout are plentiful throughout the country.

Lakes, rivers, backcountry streams and spring creeks all offer fantastic opportunities to fish for brown and rainbow trout. In the South Island, you can also fish for salmon in many places. Most waters in New Zealand are in the public domain. Many are easily accessed via a public right of way and the Queen's Chain. Others can usually be visited through landowner permission.

Please be aware of local regulations regarding seasons, catch limits, licensing laws and fishing methods. Fishing in New Zealand is administered by local Fish & Game Councils.  Each region has a section on this website that will keep you updated with local news, regulations, fishing licence agents and more. If you are heading to a region you are unfamiliar with, please take a moment to visit the local section of this website.

You need a current Sports Fishing Licence for all waters. A range of licences are available, and there are special licence requirements for Non Residents and anglers who want to fish Designated Waters Fisheries.