Rotorua & Taupo

There numerous lakes that dot the region from ones formed by volcanic eruptions, blocked of valleys and hydro schemes. None are more famous than the lakes of the Rotorua and Taupo regions.Rotorua has 15 lakes all within an hour of the city centre, most have rainbows with some browns and with some having brook and tiger trout.

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in the North Island and is famous for the rivers that flow into and out of it as well as the rainbows and browns.Secluded scenic lakes like Waikaremoana and the hydro lakes add to the diverse fishing opportunities of the region.
All methods of fishing using artificial lures and fly’s are allowed and bait is only allowed in a few locations. Boat fishing methods of trolling and harling with fly rods are preferred but during the summer months a form of jigging has become the most popular in the deeper lakes. Spin fishing is a great way to target fish along the lake edge margins. The region is famous for fish up to and in excess of the magic 10lb mark and give a great fight on the light tackle used.

The North Islands Rotorua Lakes enjoy a 'special' shoreline season, where trophy sized rainbows return to their release points as mature fish in the 8-15lb class. Perhaps the largest bows taken on the North Island each season. April thru July is prime time, and best of all they are fished for from the beach during the day and night and is suitable for complete beginners and experts alike

Most of the lakes are put and take fisheries and provide the best way to taste a wild trout. There is no trout farming in New Zealand so you have to catch one to have a trout served up on your evening meal. Most rivers are wild fisheries and since there is no stocking of fish most guides tend to practice catch and release to preserve the fisheries.