Canterbury Lakes
Most of the fishing lakes in the North Canterbury Fish and Game region are located in the high country at least 90 minutes drive west of the coast. The notable exceptions are Lakes Ellesmere and Forsythe on the southern side of Banks Peninsula. The high country lakes all contain good populations of rainbow and brown trout. Lake Heron, Lake Coleridge and Lake Sumner also contain large numbers of resident King (Chinook) salmon, which although not large, provide anglers with great sport fishing.
Further to the south, in the Central South Island Fish & Game Region, are the picturesque hydro fishing lakes: Tekapo, Alexandrina, Pukaki, Ohau, Ruataniwha, Benmore, Aviemore and Waitaki.
Lake Lyndon Trout Fishing
Nestled near Porters Pass, Lake Lyndon is Canterbury’s most accessible high country lake. It offers great fishing for all skill levels for both brown and rainbow trout. Learn the top spin, fly, and winter glo-bug techniques to land your next catch in this spectacular barren tussock landscape.
High Country Lake Fishing in Canterbury: Tactics & Top Spots
Unlock the secrets of Canterbury’s high country lakes with expert advice from Peter Langlands. Discover how to locate elusive trout, master shallow weed beds, and choose the perfect fly patterns for a successful angling adventure.
Fishing Under The Stars – Night Fishing Lake Ellesmere Tributaries
Fishing under the stars on Lake Ellesmere’s tributaries offers some of the best chances to catch trophy sea-run brown trout in New Zealand. This guide covers the Selwyn, Harts, Irwell, Halswell and LII rivers, with proven night fishing tactics, lure selection tips, and the best times to fish when trout move in to feed under darkness. Perfect for anglers chasing big fish and unforgettable night-time action.
Lake Fishing Strategies: How to Catch Trout in NZ Lakes
Master New Zealand lake fishing with expert strategies for catching trout. Learn the best spots, from stream mouths to drop-offs, and which fly patterns to use. Locations: Inflowing streams, cold springs, rocky points, and drop-offs. Techniques: Fishing the “wash” in windy conditions and stalking cruising fish in the shallows. Fly Patterns: Damselfly nymphs, snails (Black and Peacock), and bullies. Specific Lakes: Lake Coleridge, Lake Pearson, and Lake Ellesmere.
Night Fishing with Lures – Hart’s Creek, L2, Halswell and Selwyn Rivers
Night fishing with lures on Hart’s Creek, the L2, Halswell and Selwyn Rivers offers some of the best chances to catch large sea-run brown trout in Canterbury. This guide covers proven lure patterns, the best times to fish, techniques for working sinking lines after dark, and key conditions to look for at the Lake Ellesmere river mouths.
Night Time Lurking – Fishing Lake Ellesmere and its Tributaries
Experience the thrill of night-time trout fishing on Lake Ellesmere and its tributaries in Canterbury. Discover the best spots along the Selwyn, Harts, Irwell, and Halswell rivers, learn effective lure techniques, and target sea-run brown trout, eels, and smelt under the cover of darkness. Perfect for adventurous anglers seeking trophy catches and multi-species action.
Lake Marymere Trout Fishing
Lake Marymere offers challenging fly-only trout fishing for wild Loch Leven browns in a pristine Canterbury high-country setting. Learn the best access, fishing tips, seasonal tactics, and regulations for this unique New Zealand trophy trout lake.
Maori Lakes in the Central South Island Fish & Game Region
Maori Lakes – O Tu Wharekai – Hakatere Heron Road The Maori Lakes are a.
High Country Open Weekend 2022
Join the Lake Coleridge High Country Open Weekend and kick off the Canterbury fishing season! Held at Harper Campground, this family-friendly event features adult and junior trout and salmon competitions, spot prizes, and over $7,000 in prizes. No pre-registration needed—bring your catch and fishing license for a chance to win while enjoying stunning high-country scenery.
Lake Emily – Ashburton Lakes, Canterbury high country trout fishing
Lake Emily Brook Trout Fishing Contains Fontinalis (Brook Trout or Char) Turn right off the.