Otago Lake fishing

Central Otago / Southern Lakes

Central Otago / Southern Lakes region provides some of the most dynamic back drops and unique lake fishing experiences. Five large lakes take the centre of the region, and over 20 other mid- small lakes and tarns dotted across every corner of the region offers some of the most diverse fishery in New Zealand.

Anglers have great choices of fishing the depth of glacier fed deep blue water lakes or enjoy stalking the cruising trout in a more intimate setting of high- country lakes, surrounded by the golden tussock covered hills.

Lakes in this region provides anglers with opportunity to fish for:

  • Rainbow Trout
  • Brown Trout
  • Land locked Chinook (King) Salmon

Angling methods for targeting these fish are:

  • Fly fishing
  • Spin fishing
  • Soft baiting
  • Harling
  • Trolling
  • Bait fishing

Central Otago / Southern Lakes regions can provide easy access, great fishing options and opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Lake fishing can often be looked as secondary option to fishing the rivers, however lake fishing has its own story. With our guide’s intimate knowledge of the lakes and tarns, you will be able to enjoy the hidden treasure of this region, whilst enjoying the most breath-taking sceneries.

For more information, please contact our members below.

Jeff Forsee and Jack Scott

Jeff Forsee and Jack Scott of Aotearoa Anglers in Wanaka offer a unique still-water fishing experience from their purpose-built NRS fishing rafts. Fishing the lake edges for cruising trout from the comfort of the raft is both fun and effective.

These oar powered craft offer a stealthy and peaceful approach to a day on the water. Rafts also give access to deeper channels, weed beds, muddy flats, and hidden corners that are otherwise difficult or impossible to reach on foot. They also provide a comfortable platform and a height advantage for sight fishing, similar to the experience of fishing for bonefish from a flats skiff.

We employ a variety of tactics, from nymphs and dry flies to the classic wooly bugger. You'll actively fish from the boat as your guide skillfully navigates through the most productive waters. Along with the fishing, taking in the breathtaking scenery of Central Otago from the raft is an experience in itself.

We welcome fly fishermen and spin anglers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Our rafts are suitable for anglers of all fitness levels, accommodating up to two anglers per raft, with a maximum group size of four across our two rafts.

Both Jack and Jeff are accredited New Zealand Raft Association guides, with current swift water rescue certifications and high-level outdoor first aid training. They are also proudly certified by AdventureMark, the highest safety accreditation for adventure activities in New Zealand.

Come and explore the abundant, often overlooked still waters of the South Island with us. For more information or to book, contact us via the link below, or reach Jeff at +64 22 095 4700 and Jack at +64 21 775 210 via phone or WhatsApp.

Contact Jeff Forsee and Jack Scott

Roger Tompkins

Roger offers Drift Boat flyfishing.  Fish the edge waters and tributaries of Lake Dunstan or the Poolburn or Manorburn Dams. Dunstan is a one-day trip the Dams have two-day minimum. Hugely popular in the USA & Canada now here in New Zealand.

The drift boat offers you great fishing from a stable platform, great scenery and access to water you could never otherwise get to. Drift boat flyfishing is a great way to get a true, natural drift to your fly, access to water impossible on foot. A day is made up of fishing from the boat, sight fishing the edges.

We  fish nymphs, dries and streamers. We also offer day trips on the Clutha and multi daytrips on the Waiau or Waitaki Rivers, Hydro lakes and tributaries. Multi day expedition trips are available on request. We operate an American built, out board jet powered Pro Drifter. Our guides/skippers are MNZ certified. Call/WhatsApp Roger on +64 21 436 870 or click on the link below.

Contact Roger Tompkins