Spin & Softbait Fishing in Queenstown for Beginners

Posted: July 30, 2025Category: Blog

🎣 Spin & Softbait Fishing in Queenstown – An Easy Adventure for First Timers

If you’ve never tried freshwater fishing before, spin and softbait fishing is the perfect place to start — and Queenstown is one of the most stunning places to do it.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing half-day in nature or want to feel the thrill of reeling in your first wild trout, this trip is beginner-friendly, scenic, and seriously fun.

Let’s dive into what makes this one of the best outdoor adventures for first-timers in Queenstown. 👇

✅ What Is Spin & Softbait Fishing?

Spin fishing uses a rod and reel to cast lightweight lures or soft plastic baits. It’s simple to learn, highly effective, and great for kids and adults alike.

You’ll be actively casting and retrieving, which keeps it engaging — especially when the fish strike!
🎯 Softbaiting takes it a step further with ultra-realistic, soft lures that mimic small fish or insects.

👌 Why First-Timers Love It

Easy to learn with help from your guide
Lightweight gear makes it comfortable for all ages
Instant feedback — you feel the fish bite and fight
Hands-on and active, unlike waiting with a bait rod
No experience needed — we’ll coach you through every cast

“I’d never held a fishing rod before, and I landed two trout in the first hour!”
– Matt, Auckland 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

🐟 What You Might Catch

Queenstown’s alpine lakes and rivers are home to:

Rainbow Trout – acrobatic, aggressive, and super fun to catch
Brown Trout – clever and rewarding
Chinook Salmon (in certain locations/seasons)

🧰 All Gear Included

We provide everything you need:

Spin rods & reels
Softbaits and lures matched to conditions
Waders/boots if you’re fishing rivers
Fishing licence guidance
Life jackets & safety gear

🎣 Gear hire is just $95 per person per day, and we make sure it’s all rigged and ready to go.

🗺 Where We Go

Depending on the season and weather, we take you to:

Remote rivers and lakes via 4WD
Hidden local spots that few visitors ever find
Drift boat missions (when in season — Oct to May)

These trips are all about fishing in peace, away from the crowds.

📅 When’s the Best Time?

Spin & softbait fishing is best from October through May
We run winter trips too — just ask what’s available
Half or full day options available

🧒 Is It Good for Kids?

Absolutely. We often take families with children aged 6 and up.
The casting and reeling keeps kids engaged, and it’s a great way to get them hooked on the outdoors.