About Kaikoura Fishing Charters
Kaikoura Fishing Charters, also trading as South Bay Fishing Charters, runs guided fishing and crayfish trips from 120 South Bay Parade at Kaikoura's sheltered South Bay marina. Skippered by Ian, who brings more than forty-five years of local fishing experience, the operation combines productive bottom fishing with the chance to pull up the region's famous crayfish straight from the pots.
Trips run for four to six hours aboard the vessel Kai Moana, which carries up to ten guests though eight is recommended for comfort. A typical charter starts by checking the crayfish pots before moving on to fish for blue cod, sea perch, tarakihi, Ray's bream, bluenose and groper, with the abundant Kaikoura canyon waters producing strong results across the seasons. Catch-and-release options, sightseeing for coastal wildlife, and shorter custom trips are all available on request.
The charter suits everyone from complete beginners to experienced anglers, with all gear, bait and guidance provided and free parking at the marina. Private and corporate bookings are welcome, and the laid-back, local approach — plus the prospect of landing fresh crayfish and a feed of blue cod — makes it a memorable way to get out on the water in one of New Zealand's richest fishing grounds.
