Lake PearsonLake Pearson is easily accessible via several small tracks branching off State Highway 73, each leading to convenient parking areas right at the water’s edge. This lake is particularly famous for its population of Mackinaw fish, also known as Lake Trout—a species that has struggled to establish elsewhere in New Zealand but thrives here.
Local Fishing
The North Canterbury region offers much to the angler. The Rakaia, Waimakariri, Hurunui and Waiau Uwha rivers offer sea-run salmon fishing in the summer months. The best time to plan a trip is during February when river flows tend to be stable after the period of snow melt in the Southern Alps. Most salmon are caught on heavy spinning tackle upriver or on specialised long-distance surf casting tackle in the surf next to the river mouth. Sea-run salmon are one of the most highly sought-after sports fish in the country. A season bag limit applies for sea run salmon, see the notes below or Fish & Game’s website for more details.
In addition to the salmon fishery, North Canterbury also offers great fishing for other species. Over 30 high country lakes offer brown and rainbow trout with a few also offering landlocked Chinook salmon. The upper reaches of the braided rivers also offer high quality brown and rainbow trout wilderness fishing experience with some very big fish in places. Early season the lower reaches of the same rivers provide opportunities for sea-run trout fishing as well.
For more information on sports fishing in North Canterbury, consult the fishing locations and access pages of the Fish & Game website, there are downloadable pdf guides for the Rakaia River, Waimakariri River, Hurunui and Waiau Uwha Rivers, the High-Country Lakes, Junior Fisheries and Close to Christchurch.
To protect a high quality wilderness fishing experience North Canterbury has four Designated Waters fisheries requiring anglers to be holders of a full season licence and a Designated Waters licence.
For more information or to obtain a Designated Waters licence go to www.fishandgame.org.nz
Boat Fishing: To clarify for anglers, the use of boats and/or flotation devices in the North Canterbury waterbodies is set by the Regional or District councils not by Fish & Game. It is important to note that those regulations can change without any notice. Please follow the direction of the relevant council.
Lake GrasmereLake Grasmere is a small high country lake that holds a good population of brown and rainbow trout, mostly in the 1 -2 kg range. It is a beautiful lake to fish.
Lake LyndonLake Lyndon offers excellent fishing opportunities and is easily accessible from multiple routes. Anglers can reach the lake via the Lyndon Road—also known as the Dry Weather Road—from Lake Coleridge, a scenic drive that winds through the surrounding high country. Alternatively, Lake Lyndon can be accessed directly from State Highway 73, just beyond Porters Pass, making it a convenient destination for those coming from Christchurch or the Canterbury Plains.
Waimakariri RiverThis river is home to one of the country’s most iconic sea-run salmon fisheries, along with strong populations of brown and rainbow trout that offer exciting angling opportunities throughout the season.
Lake ColeridgeLake Coleridge is the largest and most popular lake for fishing in North Canterbury. It’s famous for its unique population of landlocked Chinook salmon, making it one of the few places in New Zealand where anglers can target this prized species.
Lake GeorginaA charming little lake that anglers can easily walk all the way around during a fishing session.
