What does South Island Fishing Spots offer?
The New Zealand South Island offer some of the world’s most spectacular scenic views with a vast amount of attractions to visit. One of these is to experience the multitude of great South Island fishing spots, both inland and off-shore.
While the North Island is known for their Snapper, Kingfish and Trevally, the South Island delivers in Trout, Blue Cod, Trumpeter and Tarakihi in abundance! Then there is the crayfish found along most of its coastline!
Some of the key South Island fishing spots include:
Nelson & Marlborough Sounds Area
The island rich waters shelters the bays of this region, creating ideal fishing waters for both the experienced and newbie boaties. The waters here deliver excellent catches of Blue Cod, Hapuka and Kingfish!
West Coast
During the months of September to mid November, the rivers of the South Island west coast delivers Whitebait. The small little fish is a New Zealand delicacy! The shoreline deliver large rock Crayfish, but we recommend catching up with locals to get to those dead sure spots.
The area also delivers the opportunity to catch a Bluefin Tuna in the Westport and Greymouth areas. These fish grow up to 300kg and should not be attempted without professional guidance and help!
Southland & Stewart Island
Amongst the South Island fishing spots, this region is the most productive due to its sparse human population. Fewer people means less over fishing and higher catch rates. Under the big skies and surrounded by mountain ranges, you can catch Brown, Rainbow Trout and Salmon in the abundance of rivers. Going off shore will deliver Blue Cod, Trumpeter and Tarakihi.
Canterbury
The Canterbury region is well known for its beautiful Trout fishing rivers meandering from the Southern Alps all the way to the coast. The shoreline has an abundance of rock Crayfish (try some at one of the crayfish stalls along the road at Kaikoura) and also delivers Blue Cod, Trumpeter and Hapuka in deeper waters.
The South Island is a must visit! Even if your not that into fishing, the area has something for all and definitively for you too.
