New Zealand has many saltwater fly options. We have some beautiful harbours and bays where several quality species can be sighted and taken on fly. Fish like the fearsome Yellowtail Kingfish, The super shy Red Snapper, the Silver Trevally and the ever popular Kahawai (Australian Salmon).

The mainstay of New Zealand's saltwater fly fishing is the Yellowtail Kingfish. These hard fighting fish are found throughout NZ during summer. Popular destinations to target them on fly are the harbours of the Eastern North Island. North of Auckland several clear harbours are able to be fished. These picturesque locations are perfect for stalking Kingfish in their shallows. Access can be difficult across private land and permission must be sought.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tauranga harbour is the most popular saltwater fly fishery in the country. The easily accessible flats are frequented by local Kiwi anglers throughout the months between October and May. "Ray Riding" Kingfish are commonly encountered here and there are even local guides who are experts on the harbour. These guides have intimate knowledge of the fishery, fully licensed boats and all the rods and flies you will need to tackle the Kingfish. A short drive from here is the central North Island trout fisheries. At the top of the South Island is Golden Bay. This is the newest and most exciting destination to target Kingfish on fly. Vast expanses of shallow flats greet the visiting angler.  This is a remote and windy location but the fishing and scenery make up for the extra travel time and windy conditions. This area is a hop skip and a jump from the world famous trout fishery in the Nelson region. 

All these fisheries offer an opportunity for by-catch species. Kahawai are found in most Harbours, bays, inlets and river mouths around the country. They fight very hard and put on some outstanding aerial displays. Most fish range from 20 to 30 inches and give a great account of themselves on a 6 weight rod.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Silver Trevally are a top species. Often feeding small crustaceans and baitfish in the shallows. The Trevally is also known to ride atop of the Stingrays too, occasionally alongside the Kingfish. These are a shy fish and require a stealthy approach. 

The last of the flats species are the Red Snapper. These are NZ's most popular sports fish and can at times be available in really shallow water. A couple of places in the far Northern harbours Snapper are regularly taken in super shallow water. 

Other opportunities are Albacore, Skipjack and Bluefin Tuna on fly. During summer these Tuna are found close to shore around most of NZ. On Shallow reef areas Snapper, Gurnard, Trevally, Kahawai, Trumpeter, Moki, Blue Cod, John Dory, Barracuta and a few other species can be targeted and caught. 

We are able to advise you on what is the best fit for your fishing trip to New Zealand. We can send you to the right places, find the right Guide or Charter and book you the most comfortable accommodation for your saltwater fly fishing excursion. Contact us now to start planning your trip.  

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