LAKE Hawea 
FISHING CHARTERS

Fishing is on

Our fishing trips on Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea are available as private group charters or shared trips with other anglers. This gives you the freedom to book the experience that suits your style and budget. Perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike, our guided trips include local knowledge, quality equipment, and access to productive fishing areas—so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

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PM 
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Half day fishing charter

$350

Per Adult

A half-day fishing charter on Lake Hāwea offers a focused and rewarding freshwater experience on one of the Southern Lakes’ most pristine waters. With three hours on the lake, we quickly reach productive fishing areas just 15–30 minutes from the ramp — maximising your time in proven trout habitat.

Lake Hāwea is renowned for its clear depths, steep drop-offs, and structure-rich shorelines. We target Brown and Rainbow Trout along key contours, rocky points, and feeding zones where fish patrol the edges. Depending on conditions, we’ll troll depth lines, spin tight to structure, or work deeper water to stay on active fish.

With fewer boats and vast open water, Hāwea offers a quieter, more remote feel — perfect for anglers wanting quality fishing in a spectacular alpine setting.
‍Target species: Brown Trout & Rainbow Trout.**

All anglers must purchase a valid NZ fishing licence online before arrival. Please visit Fish & Game

PURCHASE YOUR LICENCE HERE

Price & Duration

$350 per person
9am OR 2pm departure
3 hours

Children (3–12 yrs): $315 · Under 3: Free

DETAILS

  • Meet and board at the jetty at The Camp, Lake Hāwea
  • Travel to your first fishing destination
  • Fishing is on
  • Quick refreshments
  • Head back to the jetty at The Camp, Lake Hāwea

Vessel

We fish and cruise aboard a McLay 651 Custom Hardtop; a purpose-built charter vessel designed for exactly this kind of water. She's comfortable, capable, and built for the Southern Lakes.

departure point

The Jetty
The Camp,
Lake Hāwea
9382

Requirements

Fishing licence required — available to purchase at time of booking

Capacity

  • Maximum 6 persons on board.
  • We fish up to 3 lines at once.
  • We require a minimum of 2 persons to run any charter.

We Provide

  • All fishing rods, reels, downriggers & tackle
  • Snacks & beverages throughout
  • Safety gear & life jackets on board
  • Fish cleaning & filleting at end of trip
  • Multiple techniques: trolling, downrigging, spinning & jigging

Please bring

  • Sunscreen
  • A warm layer (it can be breezy on the lake)
  • Sunglasses
  • A camera
Fishing on Lake HāweaReel South Charters boat on Lake HāweaGuided fishing charter on Lake HāweaAerial view of Lake HāweaLake Hāwea scenery with the Southern AlpsTrout caught while fishing with Reel South Charters
Decorative mountain, fish, and hook divider

Why Choose Reel South Charters?

From the moment you leave the marina to your final cast or sunset return, every detail is designed to leave you with stories worth sharing.

  • Local Passion & Knowledge – We live here, fish here, and love sharing this place.
  • Personalised Journeys – Small groups and flexible trips tailored to you.
  • Scenic Alpine Backdrops – Some of New Zealand’s most dramatic lake views.
  • Comfort & Quality – Great equipment, snacks, and friendly service.
  • Memories That Last – Whether it’s your first catch or a peaceful cruise with loved ones.
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

Species & FAQ

Target species

Brown Trout

Year-round

Rainbow Trout

Year-round

Quinnat Salmon

Jan–Apr (Wānaka)

Fishing methods we use

Trolling — covering water to find active fish

Downrigging — targeting depth for salmon & large trout

Spinning — casting lures near structure and river mouths

Jigging — vertical technique on rocky drop-offs

Frequently asked questions

Do I need fishing experience?

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None at all. We love teaching first-timers and are patient with all skill levels. If you've never held a rod before, you're in good hands.

Is fishing guaranteed?

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We can't guarantee a catch — that's fishing. But local knowledge of these lakes puts you in the best possible spots, and we work hard to give every guest a real chance.

What fish can we catch?

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Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout are available year-round on both lakes. Quinnat Salmon join the mix between January and April.

What techniques do you use?

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Trolling, downrigging, spinning, and jigging depending on conditions, species, and time of year. On a full day we'll usually use a mix of methods.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

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Yes — within New Zealand bag limits. We'll clean and fillet your catch at the end of the trip so it's readyto take away.

Do I need a fishing licence?

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Yes — a valid NZ fishing licence is required for every guest who intends to use a rod. NZ residents need a standard licence; international visitors must purchase a non-resident licence. Both available at fishandgame.org.nz. We strongly recommend purchasing in advance.

What's the best time of year to fish?

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Autumn (March to May) is often the most productive overall. For Quinnat Salmon, January to mid-April
is essential. Trout fishing is good year-round on both lakes.

Is gear provided?

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Yes — all rods, reels, tackle, and lures are included. Just bring yourself, a valid fishing licence, and layers.

Wanaka tree, boat trolling, and Southern Alps mountains

COMING SOON

We're busy getting everything ready for launch and are excited to welcome you aboard soon.
Thank you for your patience—we're not far away! Stay tuned for updates, and we'll be opening bookings shortly.

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