Lake Tekapo Fishing Tour

If you’re dreaming of casting a line in the clear waters of New Zealand’s South Island, the Lake Tekapo Fishing Tour promises an engaging and memorable outing. This two-hour guided experience combines expert local knowledge with the chance to catch impressive freshwater fish in some of the most beautiful scenery the region has to offer.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? For starters, it offers small group sizes, meaning personalized attention from guides who know the best spots. It caters to all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out. Lastly, the chance to fish at up to three different locations adds variety and increases your chances of landing that monster trout or salmon.

However, one consideration is the price point—at $193 per person, some might wonder if it offers good value. While it’s not the cheapest, the experience includes all necessary gear, a license, and personalized guidance, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy quality fishing in stunning surroundings. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate good instruction, scenic beauty, and a relaxed, small-group vibe.

If you’re an adventurous traveler eager to try fishing with expert locals in a breathtaking setting, this tour suits you best. It’s especially attractive if you want a quick, well-organized experience that fits into a busy itinerary.

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Key Points

Small group size: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.
All skill levels: Guides cater to beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
Expert local guides: Knowledgeable guides share tips and regional insights.
Multiple locations: Fish at up to three different spots for variety.
All-inclusive experience: Equipment, license, and shuttle are included.
Beautiful setting: Experience fishing in the scenic Mackenzie High Country.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Lake Tekapo Fishing Tour

This tour takes place in the spectacular Mackenzie High Country, renowned for its stunning landscapes and pristine waters. The Lake Tekapo Canal is teeming with Brown & Rainbow Trout and Chinook Salmon, making it a hotspot for anglers seeking big catches.

The tour lasts two hours, providing ample time for instruction, fishing, and enjoying the scenery. The tour begins at the Kiwi Treasures post office, where you’ll meet your guide, who is known for their helpfulness and extensive knowledge—a common praise from past guests. You’ll be transported in a complimentary shuttle to the fishing sites, which is especially handy in this expansive region.

Guides come fully equipped with all the necessary gear, including warm down jackets for the sometimes brisk mountain air. This setup means you don’t need to worry about bringing your own fishing equipment unless you prefer to.

The experience is designed for all skill levels, with guides providing hands-on coaching. As one reviewer noted, “Tim was super knowledgeable and friendly,” and another said, “He showed me several different fishing techniques.” Expect to learn methods suited for catching the monster trout weighing over 4.5kg or the Chinook Salmon, which can reach up to 4kg.

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The Locations: Three Different Spots

What’s particularly attractive about this tour is the opportunity to fish at up to three different locations within the canal. This variety not only keeps things interesting but also boosts your chances of a haul. While some reviews mention the conditions can sometimes prevent certain techniques like fly fishing, guides are flexible and focused on giving you the best experience possible.

The Fish and the Scenery

The crystal-clear waters of Lake Tekapo’s canal are a feast for the eyes, with panoramic mountain views in the background. The trout here are quite sizeable, with many weighing more than 4.5kg, and some guests have caught fish weighing up to 13kg. Salmon, typically weighing between 1-4kg, add further excitement.

Guests have commented on the natural beauty, with one reviewer saying, “Great experience on the river,” and praising the guides’ local knowledge. It’s the kind of setting that makes even unsuccessful fishing moments feel special—surrounded by rugged mountains and pristine water.

The Practicalities: Booking, What’s Included, and Tips

The cost of $193 per person is a fair reflection of the all-included setup: fully guided two-hour experience, equipment, fishing license, shuttle, and warm jackets. For travelers who don’t want the hassle of organizing gear or licenses, this is a significant plus.

The meeting point is the Kiwi Treasures post office, making it easy to locate. Tours are generally available in the morning and afternoon, giving flexible options to fit into your schedule.

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What to Bring

The only real requirement is closed-toe shoes. The tour provides everything else—gear, jackets, and licensing—so don’t worry about packing any fishing equipment.

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Cancellation Policy

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Reviews: What Past Guests Say

The tour has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from eight reviews, which is quite impressive. Visitors consistently mention the helpfulness and friendliness of guides like Tim, who “was super” and “happy to share his knowledge.” Many reviewers highlight the expertise of guides and describe the experience as “fully recommend[ed].”

Some guests note weather or water conditions can occasionally hinder specific fishing techniques like fly fishing, but guides make adjustments to keep the experience rewarding. One reviewer shared, “Tim was a great guide,” and another remarked that their guide showed various techniques, making the outing both fun and educational.

Even those who didn’t land a huge fish appreciated the relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery. One traveler from Denmark said, “Very helpful guide, although a bit pricey,” which suggests the experience is valued for the personal touch and quality.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you value guided expertise in a stunning setting and want to learn some effective fishing techniques. The inclusion of all gear and licenses means you won’t need to fuss about anything except showing up ready to enjoy. The small group size guarantees personalized guidance, a rarity that enhances the overall experience.

The scenery alone makes this tour worthwhile—fishing in the Mackenzie High Country is unlike anything many travelers have experienced before. For avid anglers, the prospect of catching large trout or salmon adds an exciting element. For casual fishers or curious travelers, the educational aspect and natural beauty make it a memorable activity.

Value-wise, it’s a premium experience, but one that offers convenience, expert guidance, and access to prime fishing spots that are hard to beat in New Zealand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This fishing tour is perfect for small groups looking for a personalized experience and all skill levels. It suits those who enjoy outdoor adventures in scenic landscapes and are interested in learning new techniques or simply soaking in nature’s beauty while trying to land a big catch.

If you’re a serious angler, the chance to fish at multiple sites with local guidance could be very appealing. Casual vacationers who want a hassle-free, well-organized activity will also find this a suitable choice, especially given the inclusive setup.

Travelers who are short on time but want a high-quality, memorable fishing experience in a breathtaking setting will find this tour highly valuable. Conversely, if you’re interested in combining fishing with other activities, exploring the region further might be advisable.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?

All necessary equipment, a fishing license, a fully guided two-hour experience, shuttle service to and from the office and fishing locations, and warm jackets are included.

How many people are in each group?

Groups are limited to a maximum of four participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What skill level do I need?

The tour caters to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced anglers.

Where does the tour start?

Meet at the Kiwi Treasures post office for check-in before heading to the fishing sites.

When can I book?

Tours are usually available in the morning and afternoon, with the possibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?

Just closed-toe shoes—everything else, including gear and jackets, is provided.

Can I do fly fishing?

While guides will teach various techniques, some reviewers noted conditions may prevent trying fly fishing specifically, but guides adjust accordingly.

How long is the experience?

The entire fishing experience lasts two hours.

Is transportation included?

Yes, a complimentary shuttle takes you to and from the office and fishing locations.

What happens if it rains?

Since jackets are provided, you’ll stay warm and dry, but it’s wise to check the cancellation policy if bad weather is forecast.

Final Thoughts

The Lake Tekapo Fishing Tour offers a well-rounded, personalized adventure in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions. With experienced guides, all equipment included, and the chance to fish at multiple sites, it’s a solid choice whether you’re an experienced angler or a curious beginner.

Expect stunning scenery, expert guidance, and the potential to land a trout or salmon that could make your trip unforgettable. While it’s a pricier activity, the convenience, comfort, and quality instruction justify the cost for many travelers.

This tour is most suited to small groups seeking a relaxed yet educational fishing outing. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of New Zealand’s renowned fishing culture without the hassle of organizing their own gear or licensing. If you’re craving a scenic, hands-on outdoor experience with a local touch, this fishing tour in Lake Tekapo is worth considering.

In summary, the Lake Tekapo Fishing Tour is a great option for travelers wanting an authentic, guided fishing experience in a stunning setting. With knowledgeable guides, all-inclusive amenities, and multiple locations, it provides good value for those eager to learn and catch big in New Zealand’s outdoors. Whether you’re after a fun family activity, a new hobby, or just a memorable day amidst breathtaking scenery, this tour ticks all those boxes.