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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.
$615
Per Adult
A full day fishing Lake Wānaka is the ultimate Reel South adventure. With six hours dedicated to targeting fish, we maximise time on the water — reaching prime fishing grounds just 15–30 minutes from the marina. From there, it’s all about working the lake’s most productive zones.
We fish the deep open basins where salmon cruise, troll precise contours with downriggers, and target structure around island drop-offs and rocky shorelines where trout feed aggressively. With more time comes more opportunity — switching between trolling, spinning, and jigging to match conditions and stay on active fish.
Lake Wānaka’s 192km² of clear alpine water offers diverse habitat, and a full day allows us to cover ground, adapt tactics, and focus on quality fish. Whether it’s working depth lines for big Quinnat or casting tight to structure for trophy trout, this trip is designed for serious freshwater anglers who want the full Southern Alps experience.
Lunch is served on board, so there’s no need to head back — just more time fishing.
Target species: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout & Quinnat Salmon (Jan–Apr).
Price & Duration
$615 per person
9am departure
6 hours
DETAILS
Vessel
We fish and cruise aboard a McLay 651 Custom Hardtop 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
Wanaka Marina,
Lakeside Road,
Wānaka,
9305
Requirements
Fishing licence required — available to purchase at time of booking
Capacity
We Provide
Please bring
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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 Lake Wanaka. 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-Aprilis 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.
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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