Fish and Game Urges Anglers to Follow Regulations This Season

As the summer holidays commence, Fish and Game is reminding anglers to ensure compliance with fishing regulations. Anglers are required to purchase a 2025/2026 sports fishing licence and carry it at all times when fishing in freshwater locations such as Lake Heron. This requirement is in line with the Conservation Act 1987, which mandates that all individuals targeting trout, salmon, perch, and other sports fish must hold a valid licence.

It is essential for anglers to familiarize themselves with the specific sports fishing regulations, as these can vary significantly between different waterways. Anglers who are uncertain about the regulations or licence requirements are encouraged to reach out to their local Fish and Game office for assistance. Staff members are available to offer guidance on both regulations and optimal fishing locations within the region.

Regular Compliance Checks During Holiday Season

According to Hamish Stevens, compliance coordinator for Central South Island Fish and Game, rangers will be actively monitoring fishing activities throughout the holiday season. “Fish and Game rangers will be active over the holiday season to observe the success of anglers and that rules are being followed,” Stevens stated. He cautioned that anglers fishing without a licence or violating regulations risk facing legal consequences.

“Anglers who choose to fish for sports fish without a licence or otherwise break the regulations can expect to end up in court. It’s not a risk worth taking, and it is much cheaper and less stressful to purchase a licence and follow the rules,” he added.

During the 2024/25 fishing season, which concluded on September 30, Fish and Game rangers were deployed across 44 waterways in the Central South Island, engaging with 3,290 anglers. This represents an increase of over 30% compared to the previous season. A total of 69 individuals were found to be in violation of regulations, resulting in 82 recorded offences.

Common Offences and Penalties

The majority of violations occurred at the Mackenzie hydro-electric canals near Tekapo and Twizel. The most frequently detected offence was fishing without a current sports fishing licence, with 33 unlicensed anglers identified by rangers last season. Other common violations included using unauthorized bait, fishing outside of designated seasons, providing misleading information to rangers, and exceeding the permitted number of bait assemblies and fishing rods.

Less common infractions involved continuing to fish after reaching bag limits, breaching sea-run salmon licence requirements, obstructing rangers, fishing from prohibited areas, and being more than 15 meters from the fishing rod. Of the 69 cases, 44 offenders were charged and summoned to appear in the District Court.

In the current fishing season, Fish and Game rangers have already interviewed 552 anglers, with 18 individuals found to be in violation of regulations. The maximum penalty for fishing without a licence, as well as for most regulatory breaches, can result in a criminal conviction, a fine of up to $5,000, and the forfeiture of any fishing equipment used during the offence. Recent court orders have seen individuals fined up to $1,000 for fishing without a licence.

As the fishing season progresses, adherence to regulations is crucial not only for the sustainability of fish populations but also for the enjoyment of all anglers. By following the rules, anglers can ensure a positive experience and contribute to the preservation of the natural resources they enjoy.