🎣 Fishing in Queenstown With Kids: A Family-Friendly Lake Adventure
Looking for a fun family activity in Queenstown that gets the kids outdoors and away from the crowds?
A fishing trip on Lake Wakatipu is an easy way for families to experience Queenstown’s scenery, learn something new and share the excitement of catching a trout or salmon.
No previous fishing experience is required. We provide the fishing equipment and friendly instruction needed to get everyone involved.
Queenstown Fishing has been teaching people to fish since 1995.
Our family-friendly fishing charters operate throughout the year, making this an activity families can enjoy during the summer holidays, autumn, winter ski season or spring.
👨👩👧👦 Can children go fishing in Queenstown?
Absolutely.
Fishing is a great Queenstown activity for children, including kids who have never held a fishing rod before.
Our skippers and fishing guides take the time to show children how everything works, from holding the rod and watching for a bite to winding in their first fish.
We keep the experience relaxed, practical and fun.
Parents and grandparents are welcome to fish alongside the children or simply enjoy the journey and scenery.
🛥️ Which fishing trip is best for families?
Our two-hour and three-hour shared fishing experiences are the most popular choices for families.
⏱️ Two-hour fishing experience
The two-hour trip is a great introduction to fishing.
It is especially suitable for younger children or families with limited time in Queenstown.
It provides enough time to get out on Lake Wakatipu, try different fishing methods and give everyone a chance to catch a fish without committing most of the day.
⭐ Three-hour fishing experience
Our three-hour fishing experience is the most popular option.
The additional time allows us to explore more of the lake, visit different fishing areas and increase the opportunity to catch trout or salmon.
👨👩👧👦 Private family fishing charter
Families wanting the boat to themselves can book a private fishing charter. A private Lake Series trip gives your group the whole boat, flexible timing and a more personal Lake Wakatipu experience.
A private trip gives your family more flexibility and allows the skipper to tailor the experience around the children’s ages, confidence and interests.
It is also ideal for larger families, special occasions or multiple generations travelling together.
🎓 Do children need fishing experience?
Not at all.
Many of the children who join us are fishing for the very first time.
Our team will demonstrate the equipment, explain what to look for and help each child throughout the trip.
We teach people to fish rather than simply handing them a rod.
Children can be involved in setting the gear, watching for strikes and winding in fish under the skipper’s supervision.
Experienced young anglers are also welcome, and we can adapt the trip to suit their ability.
🐟 What fish can children catch in Queenstown?
Lake Wakatipu is home to several freshwater sport-fish species, including:
- 🌈 Rainbow trout
- 🤎 Brown trout
- 🐟 Landlocked Chinook salmon
Every fishing trip is different, and catching a fish can never be guaranteed.
That uncertainty is part of the adventure.
When a rod bends and a child realises there is a fish on the other end, it often becomes one of the biggest highlights of their Queenstown holiday.
🎣 Is fishing equipment provided?
Yes.
Rods, reels, tackle and the fishing equipment required for the charter are provided.
Children and adults should dress for Queenstown’s changeable alpine weather.
We recommend bringing:
- 🧥 Warm layers
- 🌧️ A waterproof jacket
- 🕶️ Sunglasses
- ☀️ Sunscreen
- 🧢 A hat or beanie
- 📸 A camera or phone for photos
Closed-toe footwear is recommended.
During winter, gloves and an extra warm layer are also a good idea.
📋 Do children need a fishing licence?
Anyone actively fishing requires a current New Zealand freshwater fishing licence, including children.
Short-term licences are available online through Fish & Game New Zealand.
Your booking confirmation will include information about purchasing the correct licence before your trip.
Fishing licences are separate from the charter price.
🔥 Is the boat suitable for families?
Our main Queenstown charter boat, Nikita, has an enclosed cabin, diesel heating and an onboard toilet.
These facilities make longer trips more comfortable for families, particularly during the cooler months.
The boat is operated by qualified Maritime New Zealand skippers and carries the required commercial safety equipment.
The skipper always has the final say on weather and lake conditions.
If conditions are unsuitable, we will contact you to discuss the available options.
❄️ Can families go fishing in Queenstown during winter?
Yes.
Lake fishing in Queenstown operates year-round.
Winter fishing can be a fantastic experience, with snow-covered mountains surrounding Lake Wakatipu and fewer boats on the water.
The enclosed heated cabin provides somewhere warm to sit between fishing spots.
Summer brings longer days and warmer temperatures, while autumn and spring offer changing colours and beautiful alpine conditions.
Every season provides a different view of Queenstown.
River fishing has a defined season, but our Lake Wakatipu fishing experiences are available throughout the year.
💰 Are child fares available?
Yes.
Reduced child fares are available on our shared fishing experiences.
Children aged five and under can join selected shared trips free of charge.
Current prices, available departure times and private-charter options can be found through our online booking page.
📍 Where do Queenstown fishing trips depart?
Our regular Queenstown fishing charters depart from Frankton Marina on Sugar Lane.
Frankton Marina is approximately 15 minutes from central Queenstown by car, depending on traffic.
Guests should arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Fishing trips from Glenorchy can also be arranged on request, subject to availability and operating requirements.
🏔️ A Queenstown family activity everyone can enjoy
Fishing gives families time together without queues, screens or crowded attractions.
It combines the excitement of catching a fish with a scenic boat trip through one of New Zealand’s most impressive alpine landscapes.
Even if the children have never fished before, we will provide the equipment, instruction and encouragement needed to help them enjoy the experience.
Queenstown Fishing has been introducing families to Lake Wakatipu since 1995.
Whether you have a keen young angler or simply want to try something different together, we would love to welcome your family aboard.
✅ Book a family fishing trip in Queenstown
Choose a two-hour or three-hour shared fishing experience, or reserve a private charter exclusively for your family.
Check availability online or contact Queenstown Fishing if you would like help choosing the best trip for your children’s ages and your Queenstown itinerary.
🎣 Your next adventure starts here.
explore. fish. repeat.
