The Top of the South is a renowned holiday fishing destination, packed with beautiful lakes and rivers. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’re never far from a place to fish.
This summer, Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game is offering an exciting opportunity for those eager to try their hand at trout fishing. Through their ‘Take a Mate’ promo, Fish & Game is giving away 50-day fishing licences for free.
If you’ve never had a trout fishing licence or you’re interested in getting back into the sport, now is your chance! Simply have a current licence-holder nominate you, or if you don’t have a fishing buddy, reach out to the Richmond Fish & Game office.
And if you love the experience and want to continue fishing, Fish & Game will discount the cost of a whole season licence by $25 (the price of a day licence).
Lake Argyle is a must-visit for any angler. Known as the region’s most popular fishing spot, it’s perfect for first timers, thanks to regular releases of ready-to-catch rainbow trout. This summer, Fish & Game is running their Lake Argyle Tag Competition, where 200 tagged trout will be released into the lake just before Christmas. Anglers who catch one of these tagged fish could win amazing prizes, including two $500 Hendersons vouchers, rod and reel combos, free licences, and soft bait packs. The competition is now in its eighth year and has become a favourite among anglers.
Adding even more excitement to the fishing scene, Fish & Game will release double-digit rainbow trout, some weighing over 10 pounds! But the real showstopper this year is Old Blue, a rare, iridescent, pelagic-blue rainbow trout, weighing around 10 pounds. This stunning fish is one of the few of its kind in New Zealand and is sure to be a real trophy.
Fish & Game isn’t just about catching fish – they’re also committed to improving anglers’ skills. Over November and December they’ve been running free soft bait and fly-fishing workshops, which have been fully booked due to their popularity.
But don’t worry if you missed out – more workshops are coming up in the new year! Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate angler looking to improve, there’s something for everyone. A special ‘Women on The Fly’ event will also be held soon, featuring a casting workshop hosted by qualified casting instructor Kylie Sargeant, and a ‘First Steps’ session with local expert Tony Entwistle.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your free licence, sign up for a workshop, and experience the thrill of trout fishing at the Top of the South this summer!
