Otago-Southland-West Coast
Fishing in Southern New Zealand - Otago, Southland, West Coast, and Fiordland
The southern part of the South Island is a popular destination for fresh water fishing with a number of lakes and rivers to choose from.
The large Waitaki river has abundant salmon runs, and the smaller rivers and high country lakes are habitat to significant brown and rainbow trout fisheries. Hydro lakes and canals are home to massive trout which feed in close proximity to the prolific salmon farms.
Saltwater fishing for blue cod and hapuku is also a great option. Pacific bluefin tuna are a target species in the winter months off the West Coast. Fish up to 300kg have been caught by recreational boats.
Spot X: Stewart Island
May 2024For this instalment of our Export Spot X series, we venture south to one of New Zealand’s gems - Stewart Island/Rakiura.... Read More >
Southern Bluefin Tuna in Fiordland
July 2023Matt Jones had an awesome experience fishing for southern bluefin tuna in Fiordland... Read More >
Milford Sound Southern Bluefin Tuna
August 2022"It was late midday on a Sunday when my phone rang. It was Raymond. He said come to Tui’s right now – there's something important I... Read More >
South Island West Coast Fishing
March 2022For Nelson contributor Dan Govier there is as much enjoyment in planning a mission as actually being out on the water. Deciding where to go, what... Read More >
Trout Fishing in The Mackenzie Country Canals
February 2022On a recent trip to the Mackenzie Country canals, Mark Kitteridge learnt a few important lessons the hard way. Thankfully, after receiving a rapid rundown of... Read More >
Troutfishing Options From Twizel
January 2022The trophy trout are just one of many things Mainland contributor Peter Langlands loves about Twizel. He shares a few tips for any anglers lucky enough... Read More >
Shallow Water Maniototo Angling
December 2021There is no hesitation for Greg Morton in suggesting he prefers shallow freshwater fishing over the deeper runs. He feels every cast thrown in skinny water... Read More >
Targeting Tekapo Canal Trophies
November 2021Everyone knows there are monsters lurking in the Mackenzie Country canals, but as many a travelling angler can confirm, hooking them is never straightforward. Jacob Willets... Read More >
Winter Fishing in the Alps
August 2021The Southern Alps are a defining part of our island nation. Spanning the entire length of the South Island, the alps, valleys and basins have a... Read More >
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Latest Articles
Smoking Fish (Part 1)
February 2025Although fish was originally smoked for preservation, it is now more commonly smoked to enhance flavour and offer an alternative appearance and texture.... Read More >
Interesting Facts About Blue Cod
February 2025It’s time to put the fishing stories to one side for a mo’ – here is a quick review of the current scientific facts about the... Read More >
Freespool Reels Versus Baitrunner Reels for Fishing
January 2025Mark Kitteridge believes a freespool/overhead casting reel and suitable rod are far more effective for straylining techniques.... Read More >
How to Dry Age Fish
January 2025Dry ageing is a culinary technique that has long been associated with beef, but this method can also work wonders for fish.... Read More >
How to Catch Skipjack and Albacore Tuna: Part 2
January 2025Sam Mossman covers saltwater flyfishing, livebaiting, and cubing for skipjack and albacore tuna.... Read More >