New Zealand is a paradise for anglers, offering everything from freshwater trout fishing to deep-sea game fishing. One of the most important parts of a successful fishing trip is having the right tackle and lures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the essentials of fishing lures, tackle shops, and equipment every Kiwi angler should know about.
1. Why Fishing Lures Matter
Fishing lures are designed to imitate natural prey and attract fish to strike. In New Zealand, where species like snapper, kahawai, and trout are popular targets, lures play a critical role. Softbaits NZ options are especially popular because they mimic the look and feel of real baitfish. Other key lure categories include plastic baits, metal lures, and trolling lures for larger species.
2. Types of Fishing Lures Popular in NZ
Here are some of the most common lure categories used across New Zealand:
- Softbaits NZ: Flexible plastic lures that mimic small fish and squid.
- Plastic Baits: Affordable and versatile, available in many shapes and colours.
- Kahawai Lures: Specially designed for targeting kahawai, one of the country’s most popular sportfish.
- Baitrunner setups: Shimano baitrunner reels are often paired with lures for maximum control.
- Marlin and Game Fishing Lures: For offshore anglers targeting tuna or marlin, large skirted lures are essential.
3. Choosing the Right Lure for Your Target Fish
Selecting the correct lure depends on the fish species, water conditions, and your fishing technique. For snapper, soft plastics with jig heads are highly effective. Trout anglers prefer fly reels and small spinners. Big game fishers rely on heavy-duty trolling lures like marlin lures NZ and Shimano Tiagra 30W reel setups.
4. Where to Buy Fishing Lures in New Zealand
New Zealand has a strong network of fishing tackle shops, both physical and online. Popular spots include Complete Angler Christchurch, fishing shops Chch, and Fishing Direct NZ. Many anglers also shop online from leading suppliers, searching for terms like 'online fishing store NZ' or 'shop fishing tackle'.
5. Fishing Accessories and Tools
Beyond lures, anglers should stock up on essentials like tackle boxes, landing nets, lead line, and fishing tools. A pink fishing rod might make a great starter kit for kids, while advanced anglers often invest in Shimano reels such as the Sedona 4000 or Ultegra 14000.
6. Tips for Success with Fishing Lures
Here are some expert tips to maximise your success with fishing lures in New Zealand:
- Match the hatch: Choose lures that resemble local baitfish.
- Adjust colours: Bright colours work in murky waters; natural tones in clear water.
- Use the right gear: Pair lures with suitable rods, reels, and baitrunner setups.
- Fish at the right time: Dawn and dusk are often the most productive times.
Conclusion
Fishing in New Zealand is all about preparation and using the right gear. Whether you’re casting softbaits for snapper, trolling marlin lures offshore, or shopping for gear at local fishing tackle shops, the right choices will make all the difference. With quality fishing lures and tackle, every trip has the potential to be a memorable adventure.