Celebrating 150 years of licensed freshwater sports fishing in New Zealand

A historical re-enactment took place in Dunedin at the weekend to mark the 150th anniversary of the nation’s first licensed freshwater sports fishing season.

On December 1, 1874, the Otago Acclimatisation Society — the forerunner to Otago Fish & Game Council — launched the historic three-month trout fishing season, laying the foundations for a longstanding Kiwi tradition of freshwater angling.

Pictured: Otago Fish & Game councillor John Highton re-enacts the scene at the weekend on the Water of Leith, Dunedin, where Alexandra Campbell Begg became the first licensed angler to catch a trout on December 1, 1874. Photos: Bruce Quirey, Otago Fish & Game

On that first opening day, Alexander Campbell Begg cast his line in the Water of Leith, Dunedin, and made history by catching the first legal trout under licence in New Zealand.

That day, Mr Begg basketed 20 fish weighing 13lb (almost 6kg), all caught on the fly, historical records show.

In several streams in and near Dunedin, “good baskets” of trout were made by anglers in a few hours’ fishing.

What began in Otago has grown into a popular national pastime today with more than 130,000 anglers each year heading to New Zealand’s rivers, lakes, and streams.

“While rods and reels may have changed, the core experience endures — the pursuit of an elusive fish with a fly, lure or bait,” Otago Fish & Game chief executive Ian Hadland said.

“Freshwater angling is deeply embedded in our national identity.

“For generations, angling has connected Kiwis to a shared passion to escape into nature, reflect and unwind, enjoy each other’s company, and bring home fish for the table.”

Left: Descendants of Alexander Campbell Begg, Nick Brady (left) and Lal Mulligan, chat with Otago Fish & Game councillor John Highton at the Water of Leith in Dunedin. 

The anniversary was not only a celebration of sporting history but also a testament to anglers’ enduring commitment to conservation, Mr Hadland said.

Securing a licence in 1874 cost one pound — equivalent to about $160 today — for access to Otago waters for three months. In comparison, today an adult whole-season fishing licence, covering most of the country for 12 months, costs slightly less.

The licensing system remains central to Fish & Game’s efforts to manage freshwater fisheries across New Zealand, except for Taupo, and to protect and enhance freshwater ecosystems. Anglers’ licences fund vital conservation programmes, habitat restoration projects, and water quality monitoring.

This user-pays model ensures that anglers actively contribute to safeguarding these waterways for future generations, preserving fish populations, and enhancing habitat across the country.

“Angling is woven into the fabric of New Zealand’s outdoor heritage. Trout are a part of our ecosystem, recognised as a valued introduced species,” Mr Hadland said.

Right: Using a split cane rod and historical reel, Cr Highton prepares to cast a line on the Leith. 

“Looking back on the last 150 years, we are proud of the unbroken history of fisheries management for people to enjoy, and the benefits that has brought to the environment. We are well set up to continue that work.

“As we look ahead, we are committed to working alongside mana whenua, communities, and all New Zealanders to ensure that our freshwater ecosystems thrive.

“We encourage all New Zealanders to celebrate this anniversary by casting a line, exploring a nearby river, or simply appreciating the beauty of our natural environment.”