Ocean, lakes, rivers, tributaries – it’s all here. Whether you prefer the experience of boat fishing, or tossing your line in from the seashore, riverbank or one of the region’s many fishing piers, Nelson Tasman is every angler’s dream.
Relax and take a load off, while you soak up the views of our stunning natural landscapes, and catch yourself some snapper, kahawai, kingfish or brown trout, or gather a fresh feed of mussels and scallops.
Back country fishing abounds amongst our stunning natural landscapes, from the abundant Travers and Sabine rivers nestled deep in the Nelson Lakes National Park, to the superb wilderness fishing at Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa, and in the Aorere Catchment in Golden Bay. But perfect fishing spots are not only limited to remote locations, and those less confident in going out alone can opt instead for a guided fishing tour or charter a boat.
You’ll often see people reeling in their catch along Rocks Road in Tahunanui, or returning from an expedition in glorious Tasman Bay, which is renowned as one of Aotearoa’s best snapper fishing locations. The picturesque destinations of the Motueka River, Rabbit Island and Mapua are all less than one hour’s drive from Nelson City, whilst a slightly longer venture out to Adele Island in the Abel Tasman National Park promises a truly spectacular fishing experience.
If river and trout fishing is your passion, you’ll find plentiful brown trout rivers throughout the region including the Buller River and its tributaries, which offer some of the country’s finest fly fishing environments. Land your next catch at one of the specialist fly fishing lodges dotted along the banks of our premier rivers, such as the Owen River Lodge in Murchison and Stonefly Lodge in Motueka. Here, you’ll get to stay in luxury with all the home comforts, and enjoy delicious meals and exceptional hospitality only a few steps from the riverbed.
For a fun family experience, feel the thrill of catching your own dinner at Anatoki Salmon in Golden Bay. Cast your line, and then relax on the riverbank or at a picnic table with your freshly-caught and smoked salmon.
