Whatever your level of fishing the Rotorua Lakes region offers an incredibly wide range of trout fishing opportunities. There are always fish biting somewhere in the district! Many of the 12 lakes in the area are world renowned for the quality and size of fish. Stream fishing through the centre of Rotorua, chances to catch once-in-a-lifetime trophy fish, and waters among the most scenic in New Zealand provide endless experiences to anglers. Rainbow trout are the predominant fish in most of the lakes, but Brown and Tiger trout are present in some. The Rotorua Lakes provide excellent fishing for both first-timers and experienced anglers, all within 40 minutes' drive of Rotorua city.

Lake Rotorua is the largest lake in the district and only 5 minutes walk from the city centre. It is open for 12 months of the year and is probably the easiest lake in which to catch fish in New Zealand. While rainbow trout are predominant, quality browns can be taken from July to December, usually by harling over the weed beds. Average size of fish in Lake Rotorua is between 1.5 and 2kg. Trolling and spinning are permitted anywhere on the lake, except for within 300m of stream mouths. Sulphur Point has the best all-weather launching ramp; access is through the Government Gardens.

As Lake Rotorua is shallow, high summer temperatures encourage fish to congregate at cool stream mouths. This favours the shore-based fly fishery. All the stream mouths are safe for wading. The Waiteti and Ngongotaha streams fish consistently well through the season, while the Awahou and Hamurana streams offer excellent fly fishing in January and February. Slow sinking lines are generally used, although a floating line with a dry fly can also bring success. The Utuhina and Ngongotaha streams provide opportunities for young and old alike. A large portion of the Utuhina is readily accessible through Rotorua District Council reserves. Some access on the Ngongotaha Stream has been negotiated with the landowner, and these areas are signposted.

Ohau Channel This channel links Lakes Rotorua and Rotoiti and is open from October until June to fly fishing only. In spring and early summer there is a good smelt run through the channel encouraging large numbers of trout. The most popular area is at the Rotorua end of the channel next to the weir. October/November and May/June are the best times to catch brown or rainbow trout.

Lake Rotoiti One of the gems of the Eastern region fishery, Lake Rotoiti produces very good fish ranging from young maiden fish through to trophy fish in excess of the magical 4.5kg mark. The lake is open for limited shore-based fishing in the winter. As Rotoiti is a deep lake, most fish are taken deep trolling. Harling over the weed beds provides anglers with some good sport when trout are feeding on the surface. The cooler months or early mornings and late evening in the summer are suggested. Metal cored lines are prohibited on Lake Rotoiti. The best place for ledging is tied up under the pohutukawa trees which grow on the cliff faces on the northern side of the lake. Jigging is also popular along the northern shoreline of Rotoiti. Ruato Bay and the Pipe at Hinehopu, and the Quarry are productive for fly fishing.

At the end of a days' fishing, the Rotoiti hot pools are an ideal spot to further relax. Access is by boat only, but the soak in bush-clad surroundings is recommended.

Lake Rotoehu Although the fish in this lake are not as big as the larger lakes, it can often be more productive. Shallow trolling or harling off the weed beds gives the best results. As Rotoehu is shallow, shoreline anglers can do well from the many points and sandy beaches. Smelt fly and nymph from the shore early in spring and summer are quite productive.

Lake Rotoma has the potential to produce high quality fish. Limited winter fishing opportunities are available. Because the water is so clear, as with others in the district, a trace of 10 metres is recommended. Most of the trout are rainbows. Shallow trolling or harling are popular, as is wading from Oneroa Beach. Oneroa beach is the main spawning area for Rotoma, and very good fish can be taken in early autumn.

Rotoma is the only lake in the Eastern region where tiger trout have been released. Harling a fly at the change of light may prove successful in taking one of these brown/brook crosses.

Lake Okataina The pristine beauty of Lake Okataina has to be seen to be believed. It offers an untouched wilderness experience for anglers. In addition, there are a number of walks through native bush for those not angling, while offering anglers shoreline fishing on the eastern side of the lake. An abundance of food means that the lake has been producing bigger fish in recent years. The only launching area is near the lodge. The biggest and best fish are usually caught in deep water while shallow trolling or harling over the weedbeds as the sun rises is another promising option. Fly fishing is popular at stream mouths, for example Log Pool, Rayners One and Two. Smelt and pukeko series pattern flies are favoured on this lake. Unlike most lakes, moonlight often improves night fishing on Okataina.

Lake Tarawera Lake Tarawera is deep and clear, with Mount Tarawera making a startling backdrop. It is world renowned for the size and condition of the rainbow trout. Many fish in excess of 4kg are taken. Deep trolling can produce great fish throughout the season, especially in the summer when fish move into the deeper waters. An offshore wind is best, with Humphries Bay and along under the mountain being popular spots. Fly fishing is more successful after late March, both wading and from anchored boats. Rangiuru Bay and the Tarawera landing are recommended. Harling a fly over shelves and drop offs is often productive early in the season. Hot Water Beach is reached by boat only and is a beautiful setting for a thermal dip at the end of the day. There are several Department of Conservation camping sites around the shores of Lake Tarawera.

It is illegal to take male fish within 100 metres of the Te Wairoa Stream mouth.

Lake Okareka Only 10 minutes drive from the centre of Rotorua, Lake Okareka is becoming increasingly popular for day trips and is in a very attractive setting. Good fly fishing at the stream at Boyes Beach and the ski club in autumn make up for a slow summer. Boat fishing is often productive, with the advantage that this lake is sheltered. Lake Okareka is open all year round. Boat launching facilities exist at the ski club and Acacia Bay.

Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) Because it is sheltered, Lake Tikitapu is particularly safe. Bush covered hills surrounding the lake make it a picturesque picnic spot too, and it is very popular with a wide range of recreational users. There is an all weather boat ramp at the main beach. Harling and shoreline fishing are the most productive. The western end of the main beach provides extremely good fishing during heavy rain. There is an ideal walking track around the lake, which leads to a number of serene shoreline sites.

Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake) As Lake Rotokakahi is privately owned and is not available for public angling. [This lake is owned by the local Maori, and is one of the few pieces of water that is privately owned in New Zealand].

Lake Rotomahana is an extremely scenic lake on the old site of the famous Pink and White Terraces. Strangely, Rotomahana is under-utilised. Access is via Rotoehu Forest from Waimangu Valley Loop Road. A forestry permit is required, and is available from the Forestry Corporation Information Centre in Long Mile Drive. Rotomahana is definitely worth the extra effort needed to get there. The lake contains one of the purest strain of rainbow trout left in the world today. Average size of fish taken is around 2kg. A slow sinking line is suggested.

Lake Rerewhakaaitu This is a relatively shallow lake, and very popular for picnics and camping. The best fishing is from early summer to the end of the season. Quality fish around 2kg are not uncommon. Shallow trolling or harling along the weed beds, or deep trolling with only a sinking- type fly line are recommended. The stock comprises rainbows and they can be taken by wading in the littoral areas. Smelt-type flies are recommended, but weighted nymphs and spinning may also bring success.

Lake Okaro A very under-rated lake as far as fishing goes, Okaro offers good shoreline fishing, both fly and spinner. It is especially suitable for small boats. While the lake itself may not appear particularly attractive in mid summer, it does provide good fish in the 1.5-2kg range.

Lakes Ngahiwa and Ngapouri Both are suitable for small boat fishing only. Frequently fished very early in the season, these small lakes are worth checking out as they may provide some surprises.