Lake Wakatipu: 3 Hour Fishing Adventure by Boat

Traveling to New Zealand’s South Island, you’ll find countless ways to enjoy its stunning landscape. Among these, a fishing trip on Lake Wakatipu offers a calm, scenic escape that combines the thrill of catching fish with some of the most breathtaking mountain views around. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a true highlight for anyone keen to enjoy Queenstown’s natural beauty in a relaxed setting.

What we like about this experience is the quiet, eco-friendly boat powered by an electric trolling motor that lets you glide smoothly across the water without disturbing the environment. We also appreciate the expert guidance from a seasoned skipper, which makes even novice anglers feel confident. One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need a valid New Zealand fishing license, which can be purchased online or on the boat—an extra step but worth it for the experience.

If you’re someone who loves stunning scenery paired with a laid-back fishing adventure, this tour could be just right. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a half-day outing that combines nature, skill-building, and the chance to possibly bring home a fresh catch. Families with older children or those wanting a peaceful interlude in Queenstown often find this trip aligns well with their needs.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly and quiet: Powered by an electric trolling motor, ensuring a peaceful experience.
• Expert guidance: Led by a knowledgeable skipper with over a decade of experience.
• Top-tier gear: Premium rods, reels, and advanced downrigger techniques included.
• Flexible timing: Available morning, afternoon, or evening during summer.
• Catch and keep: You can keep your fish within local limits, and they’ll help you clean and vacuum pack it.
• Limited group sizes: Small groups of up to 6 participants for an intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Lake Wakatipu Fishing Trip

Setting out on this 3-hour fishing adventure immediately suggests a laid-back, approachable excursion suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, you’ll find plenty of value here, especially with the professional guidance and top-quality gear.

The journey begins at the designated meeting point at the jetty in Queenstown, where you’ll easily spot the blue “Catch a Fish” boat flying a flag with their logo. From there, the boat is powered by an electric motor, which means almost no noise—just the gentle hum of the motor as you glide across the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu. During the trip, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, and The Remarkables—each adding a sense of grandeur to your fishing experience.

The Itinerary

The actual fishing session is centered around using advanced downrigger techniques to target lake trout and salmon, which are abundant in these waters. The use of downriggers is a highlight, because they help position bait at specific depths, increasing your chances of a bite. This is a real advantage for anglers aiming for a successful catch, and it indicates the tour’s focus on efficiency and skill.

The guide will be with you every step, offering expert advice on how to cast, reel, and best target the fish. Based on reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and approachable, making even beginners feel comfortable. One reviewer mentioned the “great strike rate on all bites,” which hints at the effectiveness of their techniques and the guide’s expertise.

The Catch

If luck is on your side, you might land a trout or salmon fresh from the lake. The guides are happy to help you clean and vacuum pack your catch, so you leave with a tangible memory of your trip. This option is great if you want to enjoy your catch later or share it with friends and family.

Snacks and Flexibility

During the trip, complimentary snacks are provided, adding a nice touch of comfort. The tour is available during various times of the day—morning, afternoon, or evening—giving you flexibility to fit fishing into your schedule. Keep in mind, all participants need a valid NZ fishing license, though purchasing it is straightforward either online or on the boat.

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The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out?

One thing that comes through strongly in reviews is the professional and friendly nature of the guides. One traveler from Australia mentioned, “Great morning out ticking off a couple of bucket list fish on a very nice boat with good gear and an excellent skipper.” This positive sentiment highlights how well the guides do their job—making the trip feel both fun and productive.

We also love the stunning scenery—with views of Cecil Peak and The Remarkables providing a beautiful backdrop to your fishing efforts. It’s not just about the fish; it’s about soaking in the tranquility of Lake Wakatipu, which, according to the reviews, is pristine and perfect for a calm day on the water.

The Downsides

While the tour is largely praised, it’s worth noting that the experience requires at least two bookings to run, which could be a drawback if you’re traveling alone or with a very small group. Also, if you’re not comfortable with fishing or don’t want to purchase a license, this activity might not be ideal. But for those who love a relaxing day on the water with a chance to catch something fresh, it’s a solid choice.

How Does It Compare in Value?

At three hours, the tour offers a decent slice of time for a fishing adventure—long enough to get a good chance at catching fish but not so long that it becomes tiresome or overly expensive. Considering the inclusion of high-quality gear, expert guidance, scenic views, and the option to keep your catch, it seems like a fair value for a memorable experience.

You aren’t just paying for fishing; you’re also paying for the chance to relax in a stunning natural setting, with the comfort of a small group and professional support. If you’re keen on a quiet, scenic day on the water—especially if fishing is your thing—you’ll likely find this trip worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for adventurers interested in fishing who want to maximize their chances with quality gear and expert advice. It’s suited for all skill levels, making it accessible for beginners and enjoyable for seasoned anglers alike. Because of the scenic backdrop and peaceful ambiance, it also appeals to travelers who want a laid-back day immersed in nature.

Families with children over 12 may enjoy it, especially if they’re interested in fishing or simply want to experience Lake Wakatipu from a different perspective. The small group size and flexible timing make it a personalized outing that can easily fit into a day of exploring Queenstown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license for this tour?
Yes, you must have an NZ fishing license. You can purchase this online or on the boat, which is a simple step that ensures you’re ready to fish legally.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s suitable for all ages, but children under 12 need to be booked with at least one adult.

What is included in the trip?
You get expert guidance, top-quality fishing gear, and the use of advanced downriggers. Snacks are also provided, and if you’re lucky, you can keep and take home your catch.

Can I keep my fish?
Yes, within local limits, you can keep your catch. The crew will help you clean and vacuum pack your fish to take with you.

What if I don’t catch anything?
While no fishing trip can guarantee a catch, the expert guidance and high-quality gear boost your chances. Many reviews mention good success rates, but it’s always part of the fishing adventure.

How long is the trip?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day in Queenstown.

What other experiences are similar?
If this piques your interest, you might also enjoy other Queenstown adventures like Milford Sound cruises, jet-boat rides, or canyoning. Check the links provided for more on local activities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic fishing trip that combines expert guidance with the chance to catch fresh fish, this Lake Wakatipu adventure stands out as a great choice. The combination of stunning mountain views, a quiet electric boat, and knowledgeable guides create a relaxed yet engaging experience perfect for those who love nature and fishing alike.

While it might not be for the highly competitive angler or someone strictly after a high-energy day, it’s an ideal option for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic interlude in Queenstown. The small group format, quality gear, and flexible scheduling make it a personalized outing that’s worth considering if fishing or simply soaking in the mountain vistas appeals to you.

In the end, this trip offers more than just fishing—it’s a chance to enjoy Lake Wakatipu’s tranquility and beauty while trying your luck at landing a trout or salmon. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with a sense of calm, a few stories, and maybe even a photo of that perfect catch, all set against some of New Zealand’s most impressive scenery.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic day with a good chance of catching your dinner, this trip could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for those who value expert help, quality gear, and peaceful surroundings—making it a memorable part of any Queenstown visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: