Salmon Season has Begun!
It’s that time of the year when Salmon is back on the menu and we’re catching more than we can keep count. Starting 1st October until 30th March join us aboard our vessel the Hanna-K and cast a line in search of Quinnat Salmon that thrive here in Lake Mapourika.
How did they get there?
Originally from the Pacific North West, Quinnat Salmon were released into NZ waters in the late 1800’s. They are the largest of all Salmon in New Zealand, averaging about 75 cm in length and weigh about 8 kg. The prime time for the larger sea run Salmon is December and January. However Lake Mapourika also has plentiful number of stock Salmon which are slightly smaller but a lot tastier!
Breeding Cycle
In March the breeding Salmon enter rivers, stop feeding and begin their upstream migration to spawning grounds. This is when they characteristically flush red in colour. The female lays her eggs into the stream bed before the male fertilises and buries them in the gravel. Within the next 1-2 days both mature parent Salmon will die. The eggs then hatch 60-200 days later.
Our Tours:
We offer 2hr and 3hr Fishing Charters in which you will make your way around the best fishing spots on Lake Mapourika. Your guide will assist you with the fishing. No need to bring any gear as we provide everything you need.
We even have Soy Sauce and Wasabi ready for you to enjoy the freshest sashimi caught on the boat by you! Feel free to BYO drinks too!
Fishing Licences are required and can be purchase on the day of your tour in our office.
