Anglers ‘eager' as new trout licences go on sale

Trout fishing licences for the coming year are going on sale tomorrow as freshwater anglers eagerly look forward to the start of the 2018-19 freshwater sports fishing season. 

Top right: Flashback to Opening Day 2017 at Lake Tarawera.

The season officially begins on October 1 and keen anglers are already waiting to buy their new licence.

“For those really passionate about trout fishing, the day licences go on sale is a key date in their annual diary – a sign that spring is nearly here,” says Fish & Game New Zealand’s Communications Manager Don Rood.

“While they can’t use the new licence for another six weeks, buying it is one of those stepping stones to the new season.”

The season starts on October 1 and runs right through to the end of September 2019. A range of licences are on offer, including categories for families, loyal senior anglers and people wanting to try their hand at trout fishing for the first time.

Fish & Game New Zealand’s Policy Manager Robert Sowman co-ordinates licencing and points out that two categories in particular offer great value for families and children.

“The family licence allows an angler, their partner and children or grandchildren to go fishing together for the whole year for one price,” Mr Sowman says.

“It’s a great way for families to do something together and introduce the next generation to the joys of angling.”  

 “And for young Kiwis keen on fishing, if they are under the age of 12, they are entitled to a free fishing licence,” he says.

While some types of licence are only for individual regions, others allow trout fishing for the whole season throughout the country, except for Taupo where, a specific trout licence is required from DOC.

“The whole season licence is the best deal of all the categories – it allows you to fish 365 days of the year anywhere except Taupo,” Mr Sowman says.

Fish & Game says this country’s freshwater fishing is fantastic value for the challenges and excitement it offers. 

“Around the world, New Zealand is regarded as having some of the finest trout angling on the planet,” Don Rood says.

“Kiwis can enjoy that quality fishing every day of the year, relaxing in our great outdoors and putting a meal on the table for their families at the end of a great day out.  Everyone should give it a try.”

The 2018-19 season licences are available in accredited sports shops and other outlets, or online here