Fishing is an incredibly popular pastime in New Zealand, and with over 15,000 kilometers of coastline to explore, finding the perfect spot to cast a line is not an issue. From subtropical bays to rugged coastal cliffs, New Zealand’s beaches offer a variety of fishing experiences.
Whether you’re an experienced angler looking to catch the big one or a novice looking to get a taste of the great outdoors, New Zealand’s beaches have something for everyone. With that in mind, here is a beachgoer’s guide to the best beaches for fishing in New Zealand.
North Island Beaches
The North Island of New Zealand is blessed with a wide range of fishing spots, from subtropical bays to rugged coastal cliffs. Here are some of the top beaches for fishing on the North Island.
Whangamata Beach – This beach is situated on the Coromandel Peninsula and is a popular spot for both surfers and fishers alike. The beach is known for its excellent fishing, with plenty of snapper, kahawai, gurnard and kingfish on offer. The beach also offers easy access to the many boat ramps dotted along the coast, making it a great spot for boat fishing.
Muriwai Beach – Situated on the west coast of Auckland, Muriwai beach is home to a huge variety of marine life. With its long expanses of sand and protected bays, the beach is perfect for fishing with the family. The beach is known to be a good spot for surfcasting and estuary fishing, and the surrounding cliffs provide a stunning backdrop.
Piha Beach – Piha Beach is another popular spot for fishing in the Auckland region. The beach is known for its good surfcasting, as well as its excellent fishing for snapper, kahawai, trevally and kingfish. Piha is also a great spot for kayak fishing, with plenty of sheltered coves and bays to explore.
South Island Beaches
The South Island of New Zealand is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Here are some of the top spots for fishing on the South Island.
Kaikoura Beach – Kaikoura beach is a mecca for fishers looking for the big one. Boasting the deepest waters off the coast of New Zealand, the beach is renowned for its excellent deep-sea fishing. The beach is known for its excellent snapper and gurnard fishing, and is also a great spot for kayak fishing.
Abel Tasman National Park – Abel Tasman National Park is a great spot for both fishing and exploring. The park is home to an abundance of rocky shorelines and sheltered coves, making it perfect for shore fishing and kayak fishing. Species on offer include snapper, kahawai, trevally and kingfish.
Punakaiki beach – Punakaiki beach is situated on the west coast of the South Island and is renowned for its excellent fishing. The beach is known for its excellent surfcasting and boat fishing, with plenty of snapper and kahawai on offer. The beach also offers easy access to the many boat ramps dotted along the coast.
Tips for Fishing on New Zealand’s Beaches
No matter which beach you decide to visit in New Zealand, here are some tips to help you catch the big one.
- Choose the right bait or lure – Different fish are attracted to different baits and lures. Make sure to choose the right one for the species of fish you are targeting.
- Be aware of the tides – Tides play an important part in fishing, so be sure to check the tide chart before you head out.
- Check the weather report – The weather can make or break your fishing experience, so be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast before you head out.
- Be patient – Fishing is all about patience, so remember to take your time and be patient when out on the water.
- Pack the right gear – Make sure to pack the right gear for your fishing trip, including a good quality rod, reel and tackle.
- Wear the right clothing – Wear clothing that is suited to the conditions, such as wetsuits and sun-protective clothing.
- Be respectful of the environment – Fishing can have a negative impact on the environment if not done responsibly, so be sure to be respectful of the local ecosystem when fishing.
- Follow the regulations – Make sure to follow the regulations and licensing requirements for the area you are fishing in.
- Bring a friend – Fishing is an incredibly social activity, so make sure you bring along a friend or family member to make your fishing experience even more enjoyable.
There you have it – a beachgoer’s guide to New Zealand’s best beaches for fishing. Whether you’re a novice looking to get a taste of the great outdoors or an experienced angler looking to catch the big one, the beaches of New Zealand have something for everyone.