Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Waikato
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Waikato
Find A Local Fishing Guide in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Waikato
The Rotorua, Bay of Plenty and Waikato region is well known for the volcanic lakes and the river fishing it offers.
Fly Fishing
Anglers are spoilt for choice with fly fishing available on the many streams and rivers, such as the world famous Rangitaiki river or fish from a boat on one of the lakes the region boasts. Boat fishing can be a very productive method and often a few hours are all that is needed to get a good catch.
Fabled double figure (10lb+) rainbows are not an uncommon capture in the Rotorua lakes and are eagerly targeted by anglers during the later parts of the fishing year in autumn/fall.
The wildness region of the Urewera Mountains gives birth to some wonderful fishing rivers such as the Waiau. This is a very popular tourist area and offers a great all-year-round fishery.
Lake Fishing
The North Islands Rotorua Lakes enjoy a 'special' shoreline season, where trophy sized rainbows return to their release points as mature fish in the 8-15lb class. Perhaps the largest bows taken on the North Island each season. April thru July is prime time, and best of all they are fished for from the beach during the day and night and is suitable for complete beginners and experts alike
Most of the lakes are put and take fisheries and provide the best way to taste a wild trout. There is no trout farming in New Zealand so you have to catch one to have a trout served up on your evening meal. Most rivers are wild fisheries and since there is no stocking of fish most guides tend to practice catch and release to preserve the fisheries.
Salt Water Fishing
The Bay of Plenty coastline stretching from the Coramandel Peninsula through to the East Cape is New Zealand provides endless options and opportunities to the keen saltwater fly fisherman. Ohiwa and Tauranga harbour make up the inshore fisheries, popular recreational fishing areas for New Zealander's. Of most interest to the saltwater fly fisherman is the snapper, kahawai, silver trevally and the yellowtail kingfish, New Zealand's saltwater fly fishing premier fish. The last few years has seen the emergence of true world class saltwater fly fishing scene that has gained a lot of international interest thanks to the elegant yellowtail kingfish.
Tauranga Harbour the most popular saltwater fly fishing location in the Bay of Plenty, with plenty of the terrain that kingfish use to ambush their next meal. The kingfish are known to cruise the shallow flats looking for bait fish that try find refuge in the sea grass patches found throughout the flats.
All the members listed on this website have the following vital accreditations:
- Current first aid certificate
- DOC Concession to guide on the DOC estate
- Audited Health & Safety Plan
- Public liability insurance
Ollie Bassett
Kia Ora, my name is Ollie Bassett. I'm 24 years old and from Tauranga, New Zealand. I am a full time professional fly fishing guide based in Rotorua and wider Bay of Plenty/Central North Island region.
For the past three years (2024, 2025 & 2026) I have been the New Zealand National Fly Fishing Champion, and I am a current member of the New Zealand Fly Fishing Team.
I have represented New Zealand at the past four world fly fishing championships, and in the 2026 Oceania fly fishing championship. I finished in 8th place individually at the 2024 world fly fishing championship in France, and in 6th place in 2025 in the Czech Republic. In 2026 I won the Oceania fly fishing championship (Australia & New Zealand) both individually and in teams.
I've been very fortunate to have had these experiences which have allowed me to fish all over the world and learn the latest evolutions in techniques from Euro nymphing to dry fly which I teach through my guiding, tuition and clinics.
Outside of fly fishing I have a Masters of Science Degree (Ecology and Biodiversity) which has given me a greater understanding and appreciation of New Zealand's natural environment.
To book your guided trip please call on +64 21 317 978, or visit my website by clicking below.
Peter Hill
Peter lives at the base of the Te Urewera National Park in the Galatea, Murupara region. With this being his home he has a wide knowledge of rivers and streams that are all under an hours drive. He has lived for fishing and hunting all his life, specializing in nymph and dry fly, also land based streamer fishing in lakes.
He can offer his clients the following:
- Drive to upper tributaries to walk and sight fish for good Rainbows and Browns with dry fly and nymph
- Shore walk a beautiful Lake and streamer fish for smelting Rainbows
- Float down the spectacular Rangitaiki River in his certified raft and fish water that can not be accessed on foot and have a great wilderness experience with good numbers of wild trout. (This is a great option for the physically impaired)
- Helicopter into very remote scenic Rivers in the heart of the Te Urewera National Park.
Peter has the ability and patience to teach all levels and abilities, whether it is fly or spin fishing.
You can contact Peter on + 64 27243 4526 or click the link below to visit his web site
John Hamill
Cruise and Fish is your port of call when considering an idyllic trip out onto the stunning lakes around Rotorua. Run by John Hamill, you'll be treated to a personal excursion, specially tailored to suit your individual requirements. Whatever your level of experience, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, John guarantees to provide an adventure to remember.
Methods we use are jigging, soft baits, trolling and depending on the time of year, fly fishing. The boat can take you on your choice of lakes, depending on the fishing season. All year round are Lakes Rotorua, Rotoma and Ōkareka. Lake Tarawera and Rotoiti between 1 October - 30 June (they close 1 July-30 September for boat fishing). The 6m Buccaneer cabin boat is fitted out with quality gear. An electric trolling engine makes for quiet and environmentally friendly times, with a 150hp Yamaha to get you to the spots in comfort and speed. Named after a famous trout fishing fly developed for the Rotorua Lakes by John’s father ‘Hamills Killer’ is comfortable for 4 people and up to 6. Certified to MaritimeNZ requirements, it has all the safety equipment and safety management systems to look after you while on the water.
Great for friends or family occasions, to have time on some of the most scenic lakes in NZ. Time allowing, enquire about the natural hot springs to enjoy and walks around the lakes. You can reach John via his website or call him on: +64 21 951 959
Dyl Eyeington
Hi I’m Dyl from Trout Fix Nz,
I am based in Otorohanga West Coast of the North Island and guide the Waikato, King Country and Bay of Plenty areas. I’ve spent years learning the river systems and fisheries and know the waters well.
From low land streams to the amazing backcountry rivers Nz has to offer, I'm here to help you have a great day/days out. I’m happy to take out beginners right through to well seasoned anglers.
I have a passion for all styles of fly fishing but have a particular love for dry fly dropper fishing in small tributaries chasing both brown and rainbow trout.
A bit about me I am born and bred in New Zealand I’ve been fishing since I was old enough to hold a rod and that fishing addiction turned in to fly fishing over the years. My love for fly fishing has taken me all around the beautiful country of New Zealand and abroad.
Once becoming a seasoned angler in fly fishing, I found a love of teaching and seeing my friends and family catching fish on a fly rod in some of New Zealand's amazing locations that fly fishing takes us. So of course guiding professionally came along as no surprise. I have modest accommodation available in Otorohanga if required, there is some gear and rod hire available also if needed.
Let’s chat and set up a day suited to you and create some rad memories together.
For bookings and enquiries you can reach me on either Facebook or Instagram @troutfixnz or by phone +64 21247 0990 or email me by clicking the link below
Miles Rushmer
Miles Rushmer operates out of the sunny Bay of Plenty region, on the North Island, where he has developed a global reputation as a master trophy guide - particularly for double-digit browns. The region encompasses such famous waters as Rotorua, Taupo, Tauranga and the wilds of East Cape. Featuring in numerous books, movies and magazines around the World is testimony to the thrilling sight fishing adventures he provides and the sheer quality of the waters he works with. Guide to such legends as Sir Billy Connolly, and the current Prime Ministers husband, is also testimony to the professionalism and service Miles provides. From single day trophy stream and lake experiences, to multi-day and helicopter tours covering numerous rivers and streams in the iconic Bay of Plenty region. There is something for everyone, beginners and experienced alike. With a distinct knack for hosting, and an infectious personality, a trip with Miles will be one you remember for a lifetime. Monster trout in crystal clear small spring creeks? What are you waiting for!
Julian Danby
Julian Danby is the owner and head guide of Rotorua Trout Guide, offering customised and professionally guided fly fishing experiences throughout the Rotorua and Bay of Plenty region. Boat fishing charters on the Rotorua Lakes are also available, providing another great way to experience the region's exceptional fishing.
Julian specialises in back country and wilderness fly fishing and also targeting the world-renowned spring creek brown trout fisheries that have made Rotorua a premier destination for discerning anglers from around the globe.
Internationally recognised for producing exceptional rainbow and trophy brown trout, the fisheries surrounding Rotorua deserve a place on every visiting angler's New Zealand itinerary. Whether you are seeking backcountry fly fishing, spring creek fly fishing for big browns, saltwater fly fishing for kingfish, or boat fishing charters on the Rotorua Lakes, every trip is tailored to exceed expectations.
Rotorua Trout Guide is committed to delivering world-class angling, personalised service, and unforgettable days on the water.
To book your guided fishing experience or discuss a customised itinerary, contact Julian on +64 27 339 7468 or click the button below.
Colin Heard
Colin Heard is thrilled to share his passion for fishing with everyone at Hooked Rotorua, nestled in the stunning Rotorua region! Hailing from Galatea, close to the enchanting Te Urewera National Park, Colin is excited to continue a family legacy of hunting and fishing that has been passed down through generations. Guided by the wisdom of his late grandfather and father, he has truly embraced the joy of fishing. Having honed his skills at Lake Aniwhenua and navigated the vibrant tributaries of the Rangitaiki River, Colin has become an expert in Nymphing and dry fly fishing. With his trusty fly rod always ready for the next thrilling adventure, he can't wait to share those experiences with fellow enthusiasts! For Colin, fly fishing isn’t just about the excitement of the catch—it’s about exploring breathtaking, remote backcountry that reveals delightful surprises at every turn. As he continues his journey, Colin finds so much joy in sharing his knowledge with passionate anglers. There's nothing quite like the thrill of watching others enhance their skills and achieve those incredible hook-ups!
Colin offers full-day and half-day guided fishing experiences in Rotorua and its scenic surroundings. He eagerly looks forward to welcoming you on your next unforgettable fishing adventure! Phone +64 27 467 6467
