New Zealand is a dream destination for many anglers. With its snow-fed rivers, pristine lakes, and breathtaking landscapes, it offers one of the finest freshwater fishing experiences in the world. Both the North and South Islands are home to thriving populations of trout and salmon, attracting fly fishers, spin casters, and outdoor adventurers from across the globe.

But if you’re planning your first fishing trip to New Zealand, you probably have a lot of questions. To help, we’ve put together answers to the most common questions recreational anglers ask about trout and salmon fishing in New Zealand.

 1. What makes trout and salmon fishing in New Zealand unique?

It’s both the fish and the setting. Snow-capped peaks of the South Island, the deep green rolling hills of the North Island, streams with water as clear as the air and deep-blue volcanic lakes, just watching the videos or photos makes you wish you were there. The trout and salmon in New Zealand may not be as numerous as elsewhere – the density is about 50 fish per mile, whereas in the most productive waters it could be up to a thousand – but they have a chance to grow very big and fat. And catching them is a special challenge that often feels more like a big-game spot-and-stalk hunt than fishing. Combine that all,  and you’ve got a world-class angling adventure.

 2. When is the best time of year to fish?

You can fish in New Zealand at any time of the year, as most lakes and some stretches on rivers are open year-round. However, on most rivers the season is open from October 1 to April 30 (fisheries with mostly brown trout) or from November 1 to May 31 (fisheries with mostly rainbow trout). This is precisely the time that most anglers believe to be best for fishing in New Zealand. 

Within that period, each month has its highlights: 

• October brings you trout that’s hungry after winter and might have forgotten what an angler looks like
• November to December are perhaps the least crowded and see a lot of dry fly action when insects hatch
• January to February are peak touristy months, so many popular rivers and lakes might be crowded, but weather-wise the best time to explore the mountainous backcountry of the South Island
• March: Believed to be the best month for salmon, although runs may start as early as late depending on the river.
• April – May: In most rivers the water is low, bad time for float trips but excellent if you are keen on wading and ‘hunting’ trout by sight.

3. What species can I catch?

New Zealand Game and Fish recognizes ten species of fish that can be objects of recreational freshwater fishing. Of those seven belong to the trout and salmon family:

• Brown trout – Perhaps the most widespread species, especially in the South Island. Both sea-run and resident populations thrive in both rivers and lakes, take your pick!
• Rainbow trout – Mostly occurs on the North Island, but many South Island rivers have them as well.
• Chinook (King) salmon – Found mainly in South Island rivers like the Rakaia, Rangitata, and Waitaki
• Brook char – Less common but present in some alpine waters.
• Lake trout – Normally refers to brown or rainbow trout populations in isolated areas.
• Sockeye salmon – Present in some South Island fisheries, there are also landlocked populations in several lakes

There are also three “coarse” fish species: perch, tench, and rudd. 

 4. Are the fish stocked or wild?

New Zealand’s trout are 100% wild. Early settlers introduced trout and salmon in the 19th century, and populations have been self-sustaining ever since. No hatchery stocking is done in the rivers today, which makes each catch feel truly earned.

 5. How big do trout and salmon get?

 Brown trout: Average 3–6 lbs, but trophy fish over 10 lbs are not unusual.

 Rainbow trout: Typically 2–5 lbs, with some lake fish exceeding 8 lbs.

 Chinook salmon: 10–20 lbs is common, with some reaching 30 lbs in strong years.

 6. Do I need a fishing license?

Yes. A Fish & Game New Zealand license is required for all freshwater fishing. Licenses are available online or from local shops. For non-residents, the options are limited to whole season or day, adult or child/junior. For the 2025-2026 fishing season, the prices are, in New Zealand Dollars: whole season adult 270 / junior 51, one day adult 38 / junior 23.

Apart from these licenses, you may also need to obtain a Designated Waters License, a Controlled Fishery License if you intend to fish in those waters. These licenses are there to control fishing pressure in critical areas, and limit the numbers of anglers who have access to them. You will also need a special stamp for sea-run salmon.

Note that the Taupo Fishing District is managed by the Department of Conservation, and licenses issued by Fish & Game are not valid there.

 7. Are the rules different in the North and South Islands?

Yes. Fishing regulations vary by region, and each Fish & Game region sets its own rules for seasons, bag limits, and methods. Always check the local fishing regulations before you go.

 8. What are the bag and size limits?

Bag limits are generally two trout per day, but this varies widely depending on the water. Some rivers and lakes are catch-and-release only. For salmon, daily bag limits also differ depending on the river.

 9. Can I bring my own fishing gear into New Zealand?

Yes, you can, but all fishing gear goes through strict biosecurity checks at the border. Waders, boots, and nets must be thoroughly cleaned and dried to prevent the spread of invasive species like didymo. Felt-soled boots and waders are prohibited for freshwater fishing. 

If the border personnel rules that some of your gear is wet, soiled, or in need of disinfection, it will be seized and returned to you after the necessary procedures. Those usually take at least one working day, after which it’s your responsibility to collect your property at the airport. This can be a big problem on a tight-scheduled trip, so make sure you comply with all New Zealand regulations before leaving your home. 

Tip: If you buy any new gear specifically for the New Zealand trip, leave the labels on. 

10. Where are the most famous trout rivers?

New Zealand is not a very big country, but both islands are criss-crossed with hundreds if not thousands of rivers and streams. Nearly each of them has trout to spare. Some have legendary status, but many experts point out that those may see too much angling pressure, and the fish may be more ‘educated’. So the “most famous” list may just as well be used as the list of rivers to avoid:

• Tongariro River (North Island) – Sung by the famous American author Zane Grey and is renowned for its winter spawning run of the rainbow trout that enters it from the Taupo Lake.
• Mataura River (South Island) – One of the most famous rivers on the South Island, is known as the “world’s most prolific mayfly river.”
• Oreti River (South Island) – Another river of the Lower South Island known as ‘a small river with big fish’ and prized as trophy brown trout water.
• Waiau and Ahuriri Rivers – Located in the Southern Alps, they are famous for the stunning backcountry fisheries.

11. Where are the best salmon rivers?

The South Island’s east coast is home to New Zealand’s salmon runs, and as opposed to trout rivers, here you are well advised to follow the fame:

• Rakaia River – The most famous salmon river
• Rangitata River – Consistent runs and great access.
• Waitaki River – Larger, powerful water with good salmon potential.

12. What are the best lakes in New Zealand? 

New Zealand’s lakes are also prime destinations for trout and salmon fishing. Here are some of the most renowned: 

North Island:

• Lake Taupō: the largest lake in New Zealand and arguably the country’s most famous trout fishery, home to huge rainbow trout. 
• Lake Rotoiti: produces trophy-sized rainbow trout, often 8–10 lbs or more, and also has big brown trout, particularly around the Ohau Channel.
• Lake Rotorua: known for its brown trout runs, especially in the Ngongotaha and Waiteti Streams.

South Island

• Lake Wakatipu: a massive alpine lake surrounded by mountains, offers both rainbow and brown trout, with some salmon present as well.
• Lake Coleridge (Canterbury): a top spot for landlocked Chinook salmon as well as trout.
• Lake Wānaka: similar to Wakatipu in size and beauty, with plentiful rainbows and browns

13. Are the fisheries different between North and South Islands?

Yes. The North Island is best known for rainbow trout, volcanic lakes, and rivers with easy access. The South Island offers big brown trout in remote, scenic backcountry streams, plus the salmon runs.

14. Are there remote or backcountry fishing options?

Absolutely. Helicopter-access fishing in the Southern Alps is a bucket-list experience. You can find gin-clear streams with trout that have rarely seen a fly, and walk or drift through a country that looks like God has only done creating it a few minutes ago. If you are short on money but have a bit of time, a backpacking trip into the wilderness will ensure an unforgettable experience, and drift trips may be an option, too. 

15. Can I fish in national parks?

Yes, many rivers in national parks are open to licensed anglers, though regulations may be stricter. Always confirm the specific rules before fishing.

16. Is fly fishing the only method allowed?

No. While fly fishing is the most popular, spin fishing is also legal in many waters. Some special rivers are fly-only, so check local rules. For lake trout and landlocked salmon in the lakes, the fly is actually not the recommended technique. Casting heavy lures from the shore, as well as trolling with downriggers, leadlines, and paravanes is required to bring the lure down to the necessary depths.

17. Do I need special gear?

A 5- or 6-weight fly rod is perfect for most trout fishing, while an 8-weight setup is ideal for salmon. Waders are useful in cooler waters, but wet-wading is comfortable in summer. Make sure you have appropriate clothes. New Zealand fishing guides tend to emphasize silent, unobtrusive approach, and usually wear clothes that blend with the environment – green and brown, drab olive, khaki. When in Christchurch, do as the Kiwis do! 

18. What are the best flies and lures?

Most experts seem to agree that you shouldn’t pack a whole lot of lures and flies to New Zealand – it may even delay your going through customs, as they may want to check each fly for potential contamination. The general tip is to bring only a few of your personal trusted patterns, and get more in New Zealand, trusting to the choice of your guide. 

For trout, mayfly and cicada imitations are a must, as well as several nymphs and streamers. 

For salmon, anything bit and bright goes.  Large spoons, spinners, and zed spinners are the go-to choices.

19. How do I catch the New Zealand trout? 

You can catch trout and salmon in New Zealand using just about any technique you like – including trolling in the bigger lakes (not all lakes allow motorized boating though) and spinning. The trout fishing that made New Zealand famous, however, is fishing by sight. You and your guide move silently upstream, trying to make out a fish before it notices you. Then you may even spend a few minutes observing it – whether it is feeding or just resting, does it stay near the bottom or on the top – and only after that choose your fly and present it to the fish.All the difference between just casting blindly into a muddy pool hoping that there’s a fish there that might just go after your lure! 

20. Are New Zealand trout difficult to catch?

Most stories about New Zealand trout fishing are unanimous: it’s about quality over quantity: big fish, but wary and hard to catch, therefore rewarding. So it’s a bit of a destination for an expert angler, or at least someone who doesn’t need to sharpen their basic skills. Yet one occasionally meets the story that runs: “I thought New Zealand trout were impossible, but these fish proved to be ridiculously easy!” 

That could depend on what New Zealand trout you’re trying to seduce. A fish that sees several flies in a day on a ‘famous’ river is one thing, one that might have never seen an angler this season – quite a different story. So, is New Zealand trout wild and wary or ‘crass and unsophisticated’? Wherein lies the truth? Why don’t you come and find out for yourself! 

21. Can I combine fishing with other activities?

Definitely. Many anglers combine fishing with hiking, wine tours, Lord of the Rings sightseeing, or skiing (if visiting in winter).

22. What’s the weather like during fishing season?

Summer (December–February) is warm, with daytime highs of 20–30°C (68–86°F). Spring and autumn are cooler, with changeable weather. Always pack for rain and sun. And don’t forget that New Zealand has some of the highest and most dangerous solar radiation levels in the world – use sunscreen like your life depended on it (it actually does)! 

23. How much does a guided trip cost? 

Guided fishing trips in New Zealand are actually less expensive than you may think – just don’t forget to convert the prices from the NZ Dollars into your currency. As of September 2025, they start from US$ 300 an angler a day, more if the trip involves lodging, meals, or helicopter transport. 

24. Should I hire a guide?

Not necessary, but strongly recommended. Regulations are sophisticated and wary by region. Access to fishing grounds can be even more complicated, and it goes beyond 4×4 transport, boats, and helicopters. Even though NZ Fish and Game publishes detailed access guides on their website, figuring out where you can go, where you should ask permission from the landowner, and who that might be, could be a challenge. Local guides know their way about, and as often as not have access to private land that may be off limits to other anglers. And of course they have the right equipment for backcountry trips. 

Last but not least, New Zealand salmon and trout fishing is about challenge, not hooking with every cast; anglers who haven’t yet fish the Kiwi streams and lakes can’t really go far without tips from experienced local guides. 

Final Cast

New Zealand offers one of the most remarkable trout and salmon fishing experiences anywhere on Earth. Whether you dream of stalking trophy browns in crystal-clear backcountry streams or chasing powerful Chinook salmon in South Island rivers, this is a destination that should be at the top of every angler’s bucket list.

Next in ‘Fishing Destinations’

BaitYourHook’s Suggestions: Twelve Epic Autumn Angling Adventures Around the World

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, autumn unveils some of the most exhilarating fishing opportunities across the globe. From the vast wilderness of Canada and Alaska to the remote rivers of Mongolia, fall offers anglers a chance to experience fewer crowds, aggressive fish, and breathtaking landscapes. Here are five top destinations to consider for your next autumn angling adventure. CONTINUE READING