Ready, steady, fish! Freshwater season licenses now on sale

Fishing licenses are on sale today as anticipation builds for the upcoming season.

“Spring is on its way, and today marks a key date in the diary for keen anglers,” said Fish & Game New Zealand chief executive Corina Jordan.

“With the season starting on October 1, it’s a good idea for anglers to get in early and grab their licence so they can focus on sorting their gear and planning trips with friends.

“Fishing is great for physical and mental well-being; you can’t focus on problems when you are focused on a trout at the end of your line. 

“Fishing is also a great way to connect with whānau and friends, to teach children skills, instil a desire to protect the environment and help them learn independence.”

Jordan said women were increasingly giving angling a go.

“My experience is that it’s liberating. It’s time to yourself, but it also means you can bring back something delicious and healthy for dinner.” 

New Zealand’s freshwater fishing offers great value for the challenges and excitement it provides. 

“Around the world, New Zealand is regarded as having some of the finest trout angling on the planet,” Jordan said.

The 2024-25 season licences are available in accredited sports shops and other outlets or online.

Caption: Pictured is wee Finn Wright from the Marlborough Region with a 5.2lb rainbow trout he caught at lake Argyle earlier this year. He was five at the time and his folks tell us he is hooked for life.