Lake Taupō

Taupō, Waikato, New Zealand · Freshwater · Beginner

A vast volcanic caldera lake holding wild rainbow and brown trout in extraordinary numbers. Troll the drop-offs, harl the river mouths, or fish the shoreline drift at dusk under the Kaimanawa ranges.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat

The Taupō district has its own DOC-issued licence — Fish & Game New Zealand licences are not valid here. There is no closed season, and the licence year runs 1 July to 30 June. Shore anglers work the long sandy bays, rocky headlands and stream mouths, where trout concentrate. Dinghies and kayaks suit calm weather only and are best kept to the sheltered bays west of Taupō and Tūrangi; the lake is large, exposed and its weather turns quickly. Take care wading at river mouths, where steep pumice drop-offs shelve away sharply underfoot.

Access information source

Species

  • rainbow trout
  • brown trout

Best times to fish

  • Winter spawning run (May-Sep)
  • Evening smelting at river mouths
  • Summer deep trolling

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 6-7 weight fly rod or light spin combo
  • Smelt patterns and Tasmanian Devils
  • Warm layers
  • Landing net

Optional

  • Boat or guided charter
  • Downrigger for deep trolling
  • Headlamp for evening rise

Regulations and requirements

  • A DOC Taupō Fishing District licence is required — Fish & Game licences are not valid here
  • Fishing permitted only between 5am and midnight; 35cm minimum size
  • Felt-soled boots are banned nationwide to prevent didymo spread

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

Nearby fishing spots

More fishing spots in New Zealand · Browse all fishing spots · View the fishing map