Fishing Shop NZ: 8 Stores Compared on Gear & Prices in 2025
Choosing a fishing shop in NZ shouldn’t feel harder than picking a lure at dawn. With chains, independents and online-only stores all shouting about “best prices” and “huge ranges,” it’s tough to know where to get the right gear at the right price—and how much things like shipping speed, returns, warranties and in‑store advice really matter. Whether you’re chasing snapper on soft-baits, rigging the boat for kingies, or just need a reliable kids’ combo, the difference between stores can mean real savings (and fewer headaches).
This guide compares eight popular NZ retailers for 2025—Action Outdoors, Complete Angler, Discount Fishing Supplies, Hunting & Fishing, Fishing Direct, Burnsco, Smart Marine and Capital Fishing. For each, you’ll see what they stock (and key brands), a quick price snapshot for common kit, how their online and in‑store experience stacks up, the fine print on shipping, returns and warranties, and who each store best suits. Prices and promos move, but the summaries below reflect typical 2025 pricing and ranges to help you decide fast. First up: Action Outdoors.
1. Action Outdoors (Auckland store and online NZ)
Action Outdoors bridges the gap between a fishing shop in NZ and a full-on marine, RV and industrial outfitter. If you want nets and tackle alongside anchors, trailer parts and even NZ‑made knives, their Auckland store and e‑commerce site make it a genuine one‑stop option.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
Beyond standard rods and reels, Action Outdoors leans into specialist gear and hard‑to‑find parts that many fishing stores skip. The range spans recreational, commercial and DIY maintenance needs, with depth in nets and marine add‑ons.
- Fishing nets: Butterfish, flounder, snapper and commercial options.
- Tackle: Rods, reels, lines, sinkers, hooks and lures.
- Marine gear: Anchors, winches, electronics and safety accessories.
- RV/motorhome parts: Electrical, plumbing, heating and windows.
- Industrial & rigging: Ropes, cordage and lifting gear.
- Brands: Victory Knives (NZ made), Trojan trailer products, Tecni‑Sport.
- Extras: “Specials” and selected dropshipping from China to broaden choice.
Price snapshot for 2025
You’ll find budget through premium options thanks to a mix of local stock and dropshipped lines, with a dedicated Specials section highlighting discounted items. As promotions change frequently, treat the site’s live listings as the up‑to‑date reference for current pricing.
Store experience (online and in-store)
The online store is supported by product videos and an enquiry form for quick advice, while the Auckland shop lets you handle nets, compare hardware and sort parts in person. It suits anglers who prefer combining fishing gear with marine or RV jobs in a single visit or cart.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Online ordering is available NZ‑wide. For the latest shipping timeframes, returns process and warranty coverage, check product pages or contact the team directly to confirm details before you purchase.
Best for NZ anglers
If you’re comparing a fishing shop NZ‑wide for range and practicality, Action Outdoors suits:
- Net users and surf/harbour anglers needing specific mesh types.
- Boat and RV DIYers bundling tackle with marine or trailer parts.
- Deal hunters who regularly check the Specials page.
- Kiwis backing local with NZ‑made Victory Knives.
2. Complete Angler NZ (online and specialist stores)
Complete Angler calls itself New Zealand’s largest specialist fishing store, and it shows when you compare a fishing shop NZ‑wide for tackle depth. If you prefer focused fishing selection over general outdoors, this is the classic angler’s pick.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
The range is tuned to saltwater and freshwater anglers, with end‑to‑end setups and plenty of small parts. You can build a full kit without hopping between categories or stores.
- Rods, reels, combos and spares
- Lines, terminal tackle, tools and storage
- Lures, baits, accessories and apparel
Price snapshot for 2025
As a specialist, pricing is competitive across entry to premium, with regular promotions and seasonal deals. For 2025, expect market‑aligned pricing; clearance and bundle offers are where the sharpest value usually sits.
Store experience (online and in-store)
The online store is straightforward to browse by technique or category, and stock depth simplifies comparisons. In store, you’ll typically find staff with first‑hand fishing knowledge to match gear to species and locations.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Nationwide shipping is available; delivery timeframes and costs vary by item and destination. Returns and warranty support follow store policy and manufacturer terms—check the site or contact support to confirm before you order.
Best for NZ anglers
Best if you want a fishing shop NZ anglers trust for tackle breadth and advice, rather than general outdoors gear. Great when you’re comparing combos, lures and lines side‑by‑side.
- Tackle‑first shoppers who want choice
- Saltwater and freshwater anglers across NZ
- Gift buyers and beginners needing guidance
3. Discount Fishing Supplies (online NZ)
Discount Fishing Supplies is an online-only fishing shop NZ buyers use when they want fishing, boating and diving gear in one cart. They position themselves as a comprehensive NZ online store with around 20 years of expertise, which suits anglers who prefer ordering from home or the bach without a store visit.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
The focus is breadth across fishing tackle, marine add‑ons and dive essentials, so you can stock up on hooks and lures while adding boat or snorkel bits to the same order. It’s a practical pick if you’re juggling multiple categories and want to keep it simple with one checkout.
- Fishing tackle: Rods, reels, lines, terminal tackle and lures.
- Boating gear: General marine accessories and safety add‑ons.
- Diving: Core snorkel/dive items and accessories.
- Extras: Tools, storage and useful small parts.
Price snapshot for 2025
As an online specialist, pricing is competitive across everyday tackle and accessories, with frequent specials. Expect value to swing with promotions—clearance and multi‑category deals are usually the sharpest. Use the live product pages as your price reference in 2025.
Store experience (online and in-store)
It’s a digital-first experience: straightforward category browsing, product pages that cover the basics, and support from a team that markets itself as “marine masters” with years of hands‑on know‑how. If you’re comparing a fishing shop in NZ purely on online convenience, it ticks the box.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Nationwide delivery is available. Shipping costs and timeframes vary by item size and destination; returns and warranties follow the store’s policy and manufacturer terms. Check the product page or contact support to confirm details before ordering bulky or restricted items.
Best for NZ anglers
- Online-first shoppers: Want a fishing shop NZ wide without the in‑store run.
- Mixed carts: Buying fishing tackle plus boating or diving gear together.
- Regional buyers: Need nationwide delivery to coastal or remote spots.
- Deal hunters: Regularly scan specials for everyday savings.
4. Hunting & Fishing New Zealand (nationwide chain and online)
As one of the biggest outdoors retailers, Hunting & Fishing is the easy, mainstream answer when you want a fishing shop NZ anglers can find almost anywhere. Their mix of online convenience and physical stores makes them a safe bet for kitting out a trip without juggling multiple retailers.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
The range spans fishing, hunting and camping, so you can sort rods, lures and terminal tackle alongside tents, cooking and apparel. It’s a practical one‑stop if you’re setting up for a long weekend or building a family kit and want everything in one basket.
- Tackle essentials: Rods, reels, combos, line and terminal tackle.
- Lures and accessories: Hardbaits, soft‑baits, tools and storage.
- Outdoors add‑ons: Camping basics, clothing and general accessories.
Price snapshot for 2025
Expect market‑aligned pricing across entry through mid‑premium gear, with regular promotions and seasonal catalogues. The sharpest value typically appears on advertised specials; check product pages for current 2025 pricing as deals rotate frequently.
Store experience (online and in-store)
Online, navigation by category makes it simple to compare like‑for‑like gear. In‑store, the ability to handle rods and reels and size apparel on the spot suits buyers who prefer to touch and test before they commit.
Shipping, returns and warranties
You can shop online or use the store locator to buy in person. Nationwide delivery is available; costs and timeframes vary by product size and address. Returns and warranty support follow store policy and manufacturer terms—confirm details on the product page before purchasing bulky items.
Best for NZ anglers
If you’re weighing fishing shops in NZ for convenience and breadth rather than niche parts, this fits.
- Trip planners: One cart for fishing plus camping bits.
- Beginners and gift buyers: Clear categories and easy comparisons.
- Families and holiday makers: Reliable nationwide access and stock depth.
5. Fishing Direct (Silverdale, Auckland and online)
Fishing Direct positions itself as Silverdale’s leading fishing tackle retailer and online store. If you’re comparing a fishing shop NZ anglers use for big-name brands and fast selection, this is a straight-shooting option with a strong focus on proven saltwater tackle.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
The emphasis is mainstream gear that works across harbours, rocks and boats, with recognised brands front and centre. You can build or upgrade a full setup without bouncing between sites or stores.
- Brands: Shimano, Daiwa, Z‑Man and Gulp.
- Tackle: Rods, reels, combos, lines and terminal gear.
- Lures: Soft‑baits and hard lures suited to common NZ species.
- Accessories: Tools, storage and rigging essentials.
Price snapshot for 2025
Pricing is competitive across everyday tackle and popular lures, with specials rotating through the year. For current 2025 pricing, use the live product pages—deals and availability change quickly on high‑turnover items.
Store experience (online and in-store)
In Silverdale, you can handle rods and reels and compare like‑for‑like before you buy. Online, the store is straightforward to browse by category, so you can add core tackle and lures to cart fast without hunting through unrelated gear.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Nationwide shipping is available; costs and delivery times depend on item size and destination. Returns and warranty support follow store policy and manufacturer terms—check the product page or contact the team to confirm details before purchasing.
Best for NZ anglers
- North Auckland locals wanting an easy in‑store run.
- Shimano/Daiwa fans who prefer mainstream, proven gear.
- Soft‑baiters chasing Z‑Man and Gulp staples.
- Online buyers comparing a fishing shop in NZ for quick, brand-led setups.
6. Burnsco (marine and fishing, nationwide and online)
Burnsco is the classic marine-first retailer that also covers your core tackle, making it a handy fishing shop NZ boat owners gravitate to. With an online store and a nationwide branch network, it’s ideal when you want boating necessities and fishing gear sorted in one run.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
You’ll see a practical spread of marine and fishing gear geared to everyday boat and trailer use. It’s less about niche tackle and more about the essentials you actually rig, mount and carry on the water for weekend missions and holiday trips.
- Rods and reels: Everyday combos and separates.
- Bait tanks and tackle: Stock up for the season.
- Fishing accessories: Knives, bait boards, nets and gaffs.
- Boat add‑ons: Marine bits to support on‑water use.
- Storage and tools: Useful small parts for upkeep.
Price snapshot for 2025
Expect market‑aligned pricing on staples with regular promotions cycling through popular categories. The sharpest value usually lands on advertised specials; use the live product pages for current 2025 pricing and availability.
Store experience (online and in-store)
Online navigation keeps fishing and marine categories clear, so you can compare like‑for‑like quickly. In store, you can handle rods, size up nets and gaffs, and match bait boards or bait tanks to your setup—useful when you’re rigging a boat and don’t want returns hassles.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Burnsco offers nationwide delivery; costs and timeframes vary by product size and address. Returns and warranty support follow store policy and manufacturer terms—check the product page or ask in store for confirmation before buying bulky or restricted items.
Best for NZ anglers
If you’re choosing a fishing shop in NZ to sort both boat and tackle in one stop, Burnsco is an easy win.
- Boat owners: Pair marine bits with rods, reels and tackle.
- Weekend fishos: Grab knives, bait boards, nets and gaffs fast.
- Travellers: Consistent experience across branches plus online.
7. Smart Marine (super stores and online)
Smart Marine positions itself as a go‑to boating, fishing and outdoors retailer with “Best Prices, Service and Range” across four specialist super branches and a huge online store. If you’re comparing a fishing shop NZ‑wide that caters strongly to boat owners while still covering core tackle, this is a natural shortlist pick.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
Smart Marine leans boating‑first, then rounds out your cart with fishing staples and useful outdoors accessories. It’s set up for shoppers who want to rig the boat, refresh tackle and grab practical add‑ons without hopping between stores.
- Boating gear: Practical on‑water parts, add‑ons and accessories.
- Fishing tackle: Rods, reels, combos, line and terminal essentials.
- Lures and tools: Everyday soft‑baits/hardbaits plus tools and storage.
- Outdoors accessories: Handy bits to support trips and weekend missions.
Price snapshot for 2025
Their pitch is sharp value, with frequent specials reflecting the “Best Prices” mantra. Expect market‑aligned pricing day‑to‑day, with standout savings on advertised promos. Use live product pages for current 2025 pricing as deals rotate quickly.
Store experience (online and in-store)
The four super branches make it easy to handle rods, compare combos and match boating accessories in person. The online store is built for quick category browsing, so you can assemble a boat‑plus‑tackle cart fast and check availability before you visit.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Ordering runs through the online store with delivery options shown at checkout; costs and timeframes vary by item size and address. Returns and warranty support follow store policy and manufacturer terms—confirm on the product page if you’re buying bulky or restricted gear.
Best for NZ anglers
- Boat‑first buyers: One stop for boating parts plus fishing tackle.
- Hands‑on shoppers: Prefer big‑store stock depth and in‑person checks.
- Deal hunters: Track promos aligned to the “Best Prices” promise.
- Trip planners: Build full carts across boating, fishing and outdoors in one go.
8. Capital Fishing (Wellington store and online)
Capital Fishing is a well‑established central Wellington specialist with a reputation for one of the biggest in‑stock rod, reel and tackle selections. If you’re weighing fishing shops in NZ and want hands‑on advice plus online convenience, this store blends both cleanly.
What you’ll find (range and brands)
This is a tackle‑first retailer with depth where it counts—rods, reels and the small parts that make rigs work. Their team draws on years of shore and boat fishing around New Zealand, so the range reflects real‑world techniques and species.
- Rods and reels: Broad choice across styles and power ratings.
- Terminal tackle: Hooks, sinkers, swivels and leaders.
- Lures and lines: Soft‑baits, hardbaits and braid/mono options.
- Tools and storage: Pliers, cutters, trays and bags.
- Know‑how: Practical set‑ups for Wellington harbours and beyond.
Price snapshot for 2025
Expect market‑aligned pricing from entry to enthusiast gear, with sharp value on promoted combos and rotating specials. For 2025, treat live product pages as your price source—stock and deals move quickly.
Store experience (online and in-store)
In store, you can shoulder a rod, balance a reel and leave with a dialled‑in setup, backed by staff who fish local water. Online, navigation is straightforward, making it easy to compare like‑for‑like before you buy.
Shipping, returns and warranties
Online ordering is available; delivery options, costs and timeframes are shown at checkout and may vary by item and address. Returns and warranty support follow store policy and manufacturer terms—check the product page or contact the team to confirm details.
Best for NZ anglers
If you’re comparing a fishing shop NZ‑wide but want Wellington‑based expertise, Capital Fishing is a strong pick.
- Wellington locals: Hands‑on fitting and fast advice.
- Tackle‑focused buyers: Big choice of rods, reels and small parts.
- Shore and boat anglers: Practical, species‑driven recommendations.
Key takeaways
The best fishing shop in NZ is the one that fits your mission. If you want deep tackle choice and hands‑on advice, the specialists shine. If you’re rigging a boat and need practical bits with your rods and lures, the marine‑first chains make life easy. For pure convenience, the online‑forward stores deliver. Prices, promos and stock move constantly, so use live product pages as your source of truth, and weigh shipping, returns and warranty support—especially for bulky gear. When in doubt, in‑store fitting saves time and buyer’s remorse.
- One cart, maximum practicality: Action Outdoors for nets, tackle, marine and RV parts—plus NZ‑made Victory Knives.
- Tackle‑first depth and advice: Complete Angler and Capital Fishing.
- Boat owners’ shortcut: Burnsco and Smart Marine for marine bits plus core tackle.
- Online convenience and value: Discount Fishing Supplies and Fishing Direct.
- Shop local smarts: Wellington—Capital Fishing; North Auckland—Fishing Direct.
Ready to kit out your next mission? Start with the range and current specials at Action Outdoors to compare gear and build a cart that actually fits your trip.