Fishing In Wellington

Wellington Harbour: A Fisherman’s Playground

Overview
Wellington Harbour, also known as Te Whanganui-a-Tara, is a bustling hub that offers a variety of fishing experiences. The harbour’s sheltered waters are home to numerous species, making it a popular spot for both shore and boat fishing.

Key Locations

• Oriental Bay: A favorite among locals, Oriental Bay’s wharves and jetties provide easy access for shore fishing. Anglers often catch kahawai, snapper, and trevally here.
• Evans Bay: Located near the airport, Evans Bay is known for its calm waters and is ideal for targeting species like gurnard and tarakihi.
• Petone Wharf: This historic wharf offers ample space for anglers and is renowned for catches of kahawai, snapper, and occasional kingfish.

Species to Target

• Kahawai: Abundant year-round, especially during summer months.
• Snapper: Best targeted from late spring to early autumn.
• Tarakihi: Common in deeper parts of the harbour; best caught during warmer months.

Tips

• Tides: Fishing during incoming tides often yields better results.
• Bait: Pilchards and squid are effective baits for most species in the harbour.

South Coast: Rugged and Rewarding

Overview
Wellington’s South Coast is characterized by its rugged terrain and deep waters, offering anglers the chance to catch larger species. The coastline stretches from Owhiro Bay to Sinclair Head, providing numerous fishing spots.

Key Locations

• Red Rocks (Pariwhero): Accessible via a coastal walk, this area is known for blue moki and butterfish.
• Lyall Bay: Popular among surfcasters, Lyall Bay is ideal for catching kahawai and gurnard.
• Island Bay: Offers both shore and small boat fishing opportunities, with species like blue cod and tarakihi commonly caught.

Species to Target

• Blue Moki: Best targeted during winter months.
• Blue Cod: Available year-round, with larger specimens caught in deeper waters.
• Gurnard: More prevalent during summer.

Tips

• Weather: The South Coast can be exposed to strong winds; always check the forecast before heading out.
• Gear: Due to rocky terrain, using stronger tackle is advisable to prevent line breakage.

West Coast: Kapiti Coast and Beyond

Overview
The West Coast, extending from Makara Beach to the Kapiti Coast, offers diverse fishing environments, from sandy beaches to rocky outcrops.

Key Locations

• Makara Beach: Known for its rocky shoreline, it’s a great spot for targeting blue cod and tarakihi.
• Paekakariki Beach: A sandy beach ideal for surfcasting, with species like snapper and kahawai.
• Kapiti Island Marine Reserve: Accessible by boat, the waters around Kapiti Island are rich in marine life, including kingfish and snapper.

Species to Target

• Snapper: Best during late spring to early autumn.
• Kingfish: Summer months are ideal for targeting these powerful fish.
• Tarakihi: Available year-round, especially in deeper waters.

Tips

• Regulations: Some areas, like the Kapiti Marine Reserve, have specific fishing restrictions; always check local regulations.
• Access: Certain spots may require a 4WD vehicle or a bit of a hike; plan accordingly.

Hutt River: Freshwater Fishing Haven

Overview
Flowing through the Hutt Valley, the Hutt River is a prime spot for freshwater fishing enthusiasts, particularly those targeting trout.

Key Locations

• Upper Hutt: The river sections around Upper Hutt are known for brown trout.
• Melling Bridge: Closer to the river mouth, this area can yield both trout and perch.

Species to Target

• Brown Trout: Common throughout the river, especially during cooler months.
• Perch: Occasionally caught in lower stretches of the river.

Tips

• Licenses: A valid fishing license is required for freshwater fishing in New Zealand.
• Fly Fishing: The Hutt River is popular among fly fishermen; matching the hatch can increase success rates.

Lake Wairarapa: A Hidden Gem

Overview
Located to the east of Wellington, Lake Wairarapa offers a tranquil fishing experience amidst scenic surroundings.

Key Locations

• Lake Shorelines: Accessible spots along the lake’s edge are ideal for shore fishing.
• Ruamahanga River Mouth: Where the river meets the lake, providing opportunities for both lake and river species.

Species to Target

• Perch: Abundant in the lake, especially during warmer months.
• Brown Trout: Found in the Ruamahanga River and occasionally in the lake.

Tips

• Access: Some areas around the lake can be marshy; appropriate footwear is recommended.
• Conservation: Be mindful of protected bird areas, especially during nesting seasons.

Essential Tips for Fishing in Wellington

• Regulations: Always check the latest fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
• Safety: Wellington’s weather can be unpredictable; always inform someone of your fishing plans and check weather conditions.
• Tackle and Gear: Wellington’s rocky coasts require stronger tackle, while freshwater spots may benefit from lighter fly fishing gear.
• Fishing Charters: For those looking to explore further offshore, Wellington has several fishing charters available that can take you to deeper waters and introduce you to local fishing hotspots.

Conclusion

Wellington offers a wide array of fishing experiences, from the calm waters of Wellington Harbour and the rugged South Coast to the tranquil Hutt River and scenic Lake Wairarapa. With so many diverse spots to choose from, anglers of all levels can find an ideal fishing location that suits their preferences and experience. Whether you’re hoping to catch kahawai off Petone Wharf, chase blue moki at Red Rocks, or reel in a trout from the Hutt River, Wellington’s fishing spots promise excitement, relaxation, and a unique connection to nature.

From beautiful coastal views and scenic rivers to abundant fish species and vibrant marine life, Wellington’s fishing spots showcase the best of New Zealand’s capital city. With the right preparation, awareness of regulations, and a bit of patience, Wellington can provide unforgettable fishing experiences. So grab your gear, plan your adventure, and enjoy all the fishing opportunities that Wellington has to offer!