Southland Fish & Game

05/10/2026

We hope everyone’s fishing season has got off to a good start.

So far, high river flows have made conditions a little challenging in some places. The good news is that flows are now coming down nicely, the 7-day forecast is looking promising, and conditions are shaping up well for those who enjoy bait fishing.

Bait fishing is a great option for beginners and a good way to get out on the water and put a few fish on the table.

If you need some bait fishing tips, check out this video from the Fishing Knowledge Hub:

Bait Fishing Tips – Fishing Knowledge Hub
https://vimeo.com/1207253049?fl=pl&fe=cm

28/09/2026

Upper Oreti beat car parks temporarily moved

Please be aware that the Three Kings and Windy Hill Beat car parks will be temporarily relocated to the top of the hill on Oreti Road.

The vehicle track down the hill is currently unsafe to use. Please park at the top of the hill and walk down to the river.

Also, a few further important reminders:
No dogs are permitted.
Please keep well clear of stock as you make your way to the river on foot.

25/09/2026

🎣 Access Map Upgrades!

The Southland Fish & Game Access Map has been upgraded to put more of the information you need in one place.
On one page, you can find:
📍 Access information – discover access points and information for getting to the water
🏞️ Public property layers – see the DOC, LINZ and legal road parcels
📖 Fishing regulations – check the relevant rules for the waterway
🌧️ Environment Southland webcams – see what’s happening on the ground before you head out
📈 Live river monitoring data – check river flows and conditions before making the trip
🗺️ Google Maps links – found a new spot? One click can take you straight to directions.
Whether you're planning a familiar trip or looking for somewhere different to explore, the map is designed to make it easier to find a fishing spot, check the conditions and get there.
👉 Use it this season to help you make the most of Southland’s awesome fishing opportunities.
https://fishandgameaccessmap.org/

04/09/2026

Attention: Lake Monowai boaties and anglers.

Please factor this into your plans and keep an eye on it for further developments.

03/09/2026

Today certainly feels like spring has arrived in Southland! 🌱 The willows are starting to green up and the fishing season is just around the corner. 🎣

Grab your licence and get ready for another season on the water.

Be sure to check out the new Fishing Knowledge Hub — Southland Fish & Game staff were involved, and you’ll recognise plenty of our local waterways in the videos. 🐟

The 2026-27 freshwater fishing season opens 1 October, and licences are on sale now.

Get in early so the run-up to opening day is all about the good stuff: sorting your gear, lining up trips with mates, and choosing good spots.

New this season, we've launched the Fishing Knowledge Hub, your one-stop online home for everything freshwater fishing. From choosing gear and reading the water to techniques and preparing your catch, plus a growing library of how-to videos.

New Zealand is rated among the best freshwater fishing destinations in the world, and it's right on your doorstep. Buy your licence, explore the Hub, and we'll see you out there.

Buy your licence here: https://fishandgame.eslltd.co.nz/

New to freshwater fishing or after handy tips and info? We've got you covered. Everything you need for freshwater fishing in New Zealand, all in one place.

Check out our Fishing Knowledge Hub: https://www.fishandgame.org.nz/fishing-knowledge-hub

19/08/2026

A fantastic effort by these young artists and too good not to share! 🎨

We love the use of this medium and the creativity on display. It’s great to see our young learners connecting with their environment and expressing their appreciation for trout through art.

If there are any unwanted pieces left over, we’d be very happy to give them a home at the Southland Fish & Game office! 👀😉

05/08/2026

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Southland Fish & Game Council meeting scheduled for July 30th was unable to reach a quorum. A new meeting date has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 12th, at 6:00 pm at the Southland Fish and Game Council Office (17 Eye Street, Invercargill).

In addition to the July 30th Agenda, this meeting will cover the Operational Work Plan and Budget for the 26-27 Financial Year.

22/07/2026

CLOSING WEEKEND – just a reminder that this weekend is the final weekend of the waterfowl hunting season in Southland. We encourage you to get your hunting crew out for one last hunt. Good luck!

15/07/2026

🚨 IMPORTANT | Bird flu (H5N1) confirmed in New Zealand for the first time.

MPI has confirmed a detection of H5N1 bird flu in a Brown Skua at Petone. Fish & Game is working with MPI and DOC on the national response.

At this time there’s no evidence in mass mortality in wildlife, or transmission, or between wild birds in NZ. Also no detection in poultry

What hunters need to know:

✅ Game bird hunting can continue
�� Don't touch sick or dead birds that your hunting party haven’t shot. Watch dogs and children don’t touch the birds
🧹 Clean gear between every outing
🤲 Wash and dry your hands after handling birds
📞 Three or more sick or dead birds? Call 0800 80 99 66 immediately
We'll keep you updated as things develop.
More info: fishandgame.org.nz | mpi.govt.nz/HPAI