Lake Wanaka

Wanaka, Otago, New Zealand · Freshwater · Intermediate

Deep glacial water ringed by the Southern Alps, holding browns, rainbows and landlocked quinnat salmon. Fish the shoreline shelves, or head up the Makarora and Matukituki inflows for sight fishing.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: boat

Queenstown Lakes District Council requires a boat ramp permit for each trailer launched on Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea. Permits are sold at the council offices in Queenstown and Wanaka and must be displayed on the trailer. Check the council's Navigation Safety Bylaw for current boating rules.

Access information source

Species

  • brown trout
  • rainbow trout
  • landlocked salmon

Best times to fish

  • Summer sight fishing (Dec-Mar)
  • Early morning shoreline
  • Cicada season (Jan-Feb)

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 6-weight fly rod or light spin combo
  • Small spinners and damsel patterns
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Layered clothing

Optional

  • Boat or kayak
  • Guide for backcountry rivers
  • Hiking boots

Regulations and requirements

  • Fish & Game Otago or national licence required
  • Backcountry rivers may need a separate backcountry licence endorsement
  • Check season dates — many tributaries close over winter

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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