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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.
$315
Per Adult
A 3-hour Lake Wānaka fishing charter is a focused, high-energy session designed to get you straight into quality water. With prime fishing grounds just 15–30 minutes from the marina, we maximise your time where it matters most — targeting proven trout and salmon holding areas from the moment lines go in.
We fish productive drop-offs, rocky shorelines, and deep contours where Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Quinnat Salmon actively feed. Depending on conditions, we’ll troll key depth lines, spin tight to structure, or adjust techniques to stay on the most responsive fish.
Short in duration but big on opportunity, this trip is ideal for anglers wanting a premium Lake Wānaka experience within a tighter timeframe — surrounded by the spectacular Southern Alps scenery.
Target species: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout & Quinnat Salmon (Jan–Apr).**
Price & Duration
$315 per person
9am OR 2pm departure
3 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
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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