Rotorua Lakes

Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand · Freshwater · Beginner

A dozen geothermal lakes within easy reach of each other, most stocked with hard-fighting rainbows. Jigging over the thermal springs on Rotoiti and fly fishing the stream mouths are local traditions.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat

Fish & Game's Eastern region describes thirteen lakes open to fishing in the Rotorua district with both shoreline and boat fishing, and publishes angler-access brochures for individual lakes. Lake Okataina is under an MPI Controlled Area Notice: boats must first be washed at The Wash Place, 338 Te Ngae Rd, Rotorua, and a PIN issued after the online form opens the automated gate at the lake. Any boat that has been in the Waikato River in the previous 30 days must be cleaned at a designated wash station before entering other Rotorua lakes, in addition to Check Clean Dry. Confirm current biosecurity requirements before launching.

Access information source

Species

  • rainbow trout
  • brown trout

Best times to fish

  • Winter jigging (Jun-Aug)
  • Stream mouths after rain
  • Summer evening rise

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 6-weight fly rod or light jigging outfit
  • Smelt flies and small jigs
  • Warm layers
  • Landing net

Optional

  • Boat or charter
  • Fish finder
  • Headlamp for night jigging

Regulations and requirements

  • Fish & Game Eastern or national licence required (not the Taupō DOC licence)
  • Season and method rules vary lake by lake — check Eastern Fish & Game
  • Felt-soled boots banned; check and dry gear between lakes

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

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