Best fishing destinations in Oceania

Deep ocean trenches and clear island reef channels in Oceania

Oceania's fishing destinations are defined by the region's extraordinary marine environments and pristine freshwater systems, with deep sea game fishing grounds of global significance sitting alongside some of the world's most celebrated trout fly fishing rivers. The continent's most compelling fishing environments combine exceptional fish populations, dramatic natural settings and specialist guiding infrastructure that rewards dedicated anglers across multiple disciplines.

The region's deep sea and offshore charter operations deliver game fishing of considerable quality, with marlin, tuna and mahi-mahi among the most sought-after species across the Pacific's most productive offshore grounds. The freshwater river systems of the southern island groups hold some of the world's most significant wild trout fly fishing, with large fish in pristine environments accessible through specialist guiding operations of considerable reputation.

Licence requirements vary by country and species and checking requirements before travel is essential. Seasonal timing is critical with migration windows and water temperature defining access periods at the most significant freshwater destinations. Access to the most celebrated guide services books out well in advance and specialist operators are the most reliable route to securing the best experiences.

Country
Australia
Land of savage beauty
Barramundi grow up to 1.4 metres long and weigh more than 40 kilograms. Tidal estuaries and rivers of the Northern Territory are among the best places to catch them. The Great Barrier Reef holds more than 1,600 species of fish. Black marlin and giant trevally are caught there.
Region in Australia
Ningaloo Coast
Australia's Accessible Underwater Wonderland
Waters off Exmouth are said to hold all six Australian billfish species. Other catches include wahoo, mahi mahi, cobia, Spanish mackerel and giant trevally. The Exmouth Game Fishing Club has over 500 members. Its GAMEX tournament is held every March. Tantabiddi Boat Ramp serves Ningaloo Lagoon, Ningaloo Reef and the open Indian Ocean.
Outer Territory in Australia
Christmas Island
Island Paradise of Red Crabs
Steep drop offs near shore let anglers start trolling about two minutes from the boat ramp. Catches include giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, yellowfin tuna, wahoo and sailfish. Anglers also fish from the Flying Fish Cove jetty. Monsoon swell from December to April can limit boat fishing. Land based fishing is possible all year.
Country
Papua New Guinea
Last paradise of South Pacific
The Papuan Coast is 30 to 40 minutes from Port Moresby. Giant trevally is the most sought after offshore catch. Papuan black bass is the top river target and barramundi comes second. The Fly River is the second longest river in the country. A typical trip means six fishing days plus two travel days.
Bay in New Zealand
Bay of Islands
Sunlit coves echo with ancient legends
Author Zane Grey was invited by the New Zealand government in 1925. He reached Cape Brett in 1926 and landed a 111 pound yellowtail kingfish. He introduced marlin and shark sport fishing to New Zealanders. In 1927 he built a camp and lodge at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island.
City in Australia
Cairns
Gateway to Reef and Rainforest Wonders
The giant black marlin season runs from late September to December. Granders weigh over 1,000 pounds and several are caught each season. Most are released and only occasionally is a giant brought to the dock. Heavy tackle banks stretch more than 150 miles between Lizard Island and Cairns.
Island in New Zealand
South Island
Majestic fjords and alpine peaks
The Rai River holds over 200 fish per kilometre above the falls. It allows fly fishing only. The Motueka River has browns of 2 to 5 pounds in high density. The Eglinton River flows through a large meadow in Fiordland National Park. Haast River estuary browns are available year round.
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