Trout fishing licences on sale now

The freshwater fishing season is approaching and licences are now available

The trout and salmon fishing season begins in about six weeks on October 1, and buying a licence is "a milestone on the way to the new season," says Fish & Game New Zealand's communications manager Don Rood.

"While they can't use it for a month and a half, getting their licence signals the worst of winter is over, spring is coming and their favourite little trout stream or river will soon be open for fishing," Mr Rood says.

Nine different types of licence are on offer, including those catering for families, older anglers, and people who want to try their hand at trout fishing for the first time.

Mr Rood says that this is the time to review the licence options and decide which one is the best fit for your lifestyle - or in other words, figure out how much time you can put aside for freshwater fishing and where you plan to fish.

Mr Rood says all categories offer great value but the premium types are the whole season and family licences.

"These two types of licence provide value and flexibility - a year's worth of fishing anywhere in the country, except for Taupo where the trout fishery is administered by the Department of Conservation," Mr Rood says.

"The family licence in particular allows an angler, their partner and children or grandchildren to go fishing together. It is a great way to introduce the next generation to the joys of fishing.

"Young anglers get the best deal of all - if they are under the age of 12 they are entitled to a free fishing licence," Mr Rood says.

Fish & Game says freshwater fishing in New Zealand is fantastic value.

"Internationally, this country is regarded as having some of the world's finest trout angling.

"We have a website that caters especially for overseas visitors called www.fishaway.co.nz with information on licences, rules and regulations and fishing spots around the country.

"And while overseas anglers view coming here as a once in a lifetime opportunity, Kiwis can enjoy it every day of the year.

"On top of that, they can put a meal on the table for their family. There aren't many recreational pursuits which feed body and soul for so little," Mr Rood says.

"I urge everyone to get out there and give it a try."

Mr Rood says that the "newbie" who simply wants to give trout fishing a crack with some simple spinning gear is catered for with the One Day Licence, at $20.

"The Kiwi going on holiday who's done a bit of fishing but wants to do more is also well served with the Short Break three day licence or Long Break for nine days of fishing."

The 2017-18 season licences are available now in accredited sports shops and other outlets, or on line through the Fish & Game website, www.fishandgame.org.nz

"Buying online is straightforward - all people have to do is review the licence options, decide which category is the best for them and a few clicks later they will have bought it.

"The plastic licence will be mailed within ten days of completing your order and because it is credit card-sized, it can be stored in your wallet," says Mr Rood.