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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.
$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.**
Price & Duration
$350 per person
9am OR 2pm departure
3 hours
Children (3–12 yrs): $315 · Under 3: Free
DETAILS
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
We Provide
Please bring
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.
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 ready to 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 peak season. 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.
Where do I meet for my trip?
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Hāwea trips depart from the jetty at The Camp, Lake Hāwea, about 20 minutes from Wānaka town. Full meeting details are confirmed when you book.
Is there cell phone coverage out on the lake?
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Yes, in most places — coverage across both lakes is generally solid, though it can get patchy for some networks in certain spots. Honestly, that's not always a bad thing. Putting the phone away and taking in the scenery is part of the appeal.
Is there a toilet on board?
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There's no toilet on the vessel, so please use the facilities at the marina (or around town) before you depart.
What's the best way to get to you from Queenstown?
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It's about an hour from Queenstown to Wānaka via the Crown Range Road — the shorter, more scenic route, though it can close in snow or ice over winter — or around 1 hour 15–30 minutes via the Gorge Road through Cromwell, which stays open year-round. From Wānaka, allow another 20 minutes on to Lake Hāwea to reach the jetty.
What if I don't have a car?
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Lake Hāwea is further from town, so you'll need your own transport or a taxi to reach the jetty at The Camp.
What's your cancellation policy?
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If you need to cancel or reschedule, we ask for at least 24 hours' notice — we're not able to offer a refund for cancellations within 24 hours of departure. If we need to cancel due to weather or safety concerns, we'll be in touch to offer a full reschedule or refund.
Is there a minimum number of guests?
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Yes — shared trips need a minimum of 2 guests to run. If you're travelling solo, you're welcome to purchase two seats to secure your spot. If the minimum isn't met, we'll cancel the trip and offer you the choice of rescheduling to another date or a full refund. Apologies for any inconvenience.
Can I Bring a Drone?
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No — drones aren't permitted on our charters. Queenstown Lakes District Council requires a permit for drone use, and we operate within active helicopter flight paths out on the lake, so it's not something we're able to accommodate.
Do I Need to Sign a Waiver?
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There's no separate waiver to sign in person. Our terms and conditions are viewable at checkout, and booking a trip with us means you're accepting those terms at that time.
Will My Travel Insurance Cover This?
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Most standard travel insurance policies cover recreational boat tours and fishing charters, but coverage varies by provider and policy. If you're unsure, it's worth a quick check with your insurer before you travel.
