The Bay of Islands produces some of the largest billfish caught anywhere on the planet. New Zealand holds 16 of the 22 line-class world records for striped marlin, and these waters continue to deliver trophy fish that draw serious anglers from around the world during the game fishing season from late December through May.
The Bay of Islands holds an impressive collection of world records for striped marlin and continues to produce some of the largest billfish caught anywhere on the planet. New Zealand’s position at the edge of the marlin’s range acts as a natural filter. Only the biggest, strongest fish make it this far south, drawn by abundant baitfish and ideal water temperatures.
If you prefer lighter tackle fishing for snapper, kingfish, and other inshore species, check out our Recreational Fishing page.
Game Fishing Charter Boats
The Bay of Islands has numerous game fishing operators, but quality and experience vary significantly. Here’s what to look for:
Vessel and Equipment
Game fishing boats range from versatile sportfishing vessels to purpose-built game boats. Larger vessels (30+ feet) typically offer more amenities for full-day offshore trips, including enclosed cabins, heads (marine toilets), and the space for fighting chairs or stand-up harnesses. Smaller, more nimble boats can be excellent for targeting species closer to shore or for shorter trips.
Quality game fishing equipment includes outriggers, appropriate reels and rods across multiple line classes, and fish-finding electronics such as sonar, GPS, and chartplotters. Ask about the boat’s equipment and what’s provided when booking.
Skipper Experience
Successful game fishing relies heavily on the skipper’s knowledge of water temperatures, current patterns, baitfish movements, and fish behaviour. Experienced skippers know where fish are likely to be under different conditions and adjust techniques based on what’s happening on the water.
When booking, ask about the skipper’s experience with your target species and what you can expect on the day. Different operators specialise in different techniques and species, so finding the right match for your goals makes a significant difference.
Catch and Release Practices
Most game fishing charters now practise tag-and-release for marlin, with the fish brought alongside the boat, tagged, and released without being removed from the water. This conservation approach ensures healthy marlin populations for future generations while providing valuable data to fisheries research. Photos are taken during the release process, capturing the moment without unnecessarily stressing the fish.
Ask about the operator’s conservation practices when booking. Many operators participate in tag-and-release programmes that contribute to the sustainability of the Bay of Islands fishery.
Cost and Inclusions
Game fishing charters represent a significant investment compared to light tackle trips, reflecting the specialised equipment, fuel costs for offshore travel, and expertise required. Understand exactly what’s included: tackle, bait, food, drinks, and any additional costs.
Some charters operate on a shared basis where multiple parties book individual positions, while others offer exclusive charters for your group. Clarify the arrangement when booking.
What to Expect on a Game Fishing Charter
Game fishing charters differ from light tackle fishing trips in intensity, duration, and the thrill of targeting trophy species. Understanding what to expect helps you prepare properly, whether you’re a seasoned angler or experiencing game fishing for the first time.
Before the Trip
Most game fishing charters require booking weeks or months in advance, particularly during peak season. When booking, discuss your experience level, target species, and any physical limitations. Game fishing can be physically demanding, and skippers need to know your capabilities to ensure everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience. If you’re new to game fishing, say so. Crews are experienced at teaching beginners and ensuring first-timers have an unforgettable day.
Seasickness is more common on game fishing trips because you’ll be spending extended periods offshore in potentially rougher conditions. Take preventative medication before leaving the wharf. Once you’re feeling unwell, recovery is difficult.
Departure and the Run Out
Game fishing charters typically depart between 5:30am and 7:00am to maximize fishing time. The run to the fishing grounds takes 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on where fish have been located recently. Many skippers use this time to rig lures, prepare bait, and brief anglers on techniques and safety.
Keep your eyes open during the run out. Dolphins, whales, seabirds, and other marine life are commonly seen. Skippers watch for signs of fish activity including diving seabirds, baitfish schools, and temperature breaks where warm and cool water meet.
The Fishing Day
Once on the grounds, lines go in the water and the serious watching begins. Game fishing requires patience and attention. Someone must watch the spread constantly, looking for strikes, clearing lines when weed is caught, and alerting the crew when fish appear.
When a fish strikes, things happen quickly. The skipper will call out instructions, other lines are cleared, and the angler fights the fish while the crew provides support. Marlin fights typically last 20-60 minutes depending on fish size and tackle used. Tuna often fight harder for their size with more sustained runs.
Food and Comfort
Full-day game fishing charters typically run 8-10 hours. Most charters provide lunch, snacks, and drinks, though confirm what’s included when booking. Bathroom facilities on game fishing boats vary. Larger vessels have enclosed heads (marine toilets), while smaller boats may have more basic arrangements. Ask about facilities when booking if this is a concern.
Weather and Cancellations
Game fishing happens offshore where conditions can be significantly rougher than the sheltered Bay of Islands. Swells, wind, and weather systems that barely affect inshore fishing can make game fishing uncomfortable or impossible. Reputable skippers will not go out in unsafe conditions.
Weather cancellations are common. If your skipper cancels due to weather, they’re making the right call for safety and fish-finding success. Build flexibility into your itinerary with buffer days if possible.
Game Fish Species
Marlin
Striped Marlin are the Bay of Islands’ signature game fish. New Zealand holds 16 of the 22 line-class world records for striped marlin, and the all-tackle world record of 224.1kg was caught off the Tutukaka coast in 1986. Striped marlin in New Zealand waters typically range from 70-150kg, significantly larger than specimens caught in warmer waters further north.
The prime season for striped marlin runs from January through May, peaking in February and March. These fish arrive when water temperatures reach 19-20°C and remain until temperatures drop below 18°C in late autumn.
Blue Marlin are less common but appear regularly during the season, particularly in February and March. These aggressive predators are typically larger than striped marlin, with fish between 200-400kg caught each season. Blue marlin season runs from January through May, overlapping with striped marlin but extending slightly later.
Black Marlin are the rarest of the three marlin species found here but are occasionally caught between February and March. Black marlin are the largest of all marlin species, with specimens over 500kg caught in New Zealand waters, though they’re more commonly encountered in warmer tropical waters to the north.
Broadbill Swordfish
The Bay of Islands is one of the best places in the world to target broadbill swordfish. These powerful predators commonly weigh between 120-250kg, with much larger specimens caught regularly. Swordfish are primarily targeted at night using specialized deep-dropping techniques with squid or fish baits.
The best months for swordfish are March through July, when they move closer to shore and feed actively in the deeper waters beyond the continental shelf. Night fishing for swordfish has become increasingly popular, with dedicated charters offering overnight expeditions specifically targeting this species.
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin tuna arrive in Bay of Islands waters between January and July, with March being the peak month. These powerful speedsters can reach 70kg and grow up to 2 metres in length. Yellowfin are typically caught by trolling with skirted lures or live bait, though they also respond well to popping and jigging techniques.
Tuna fishing provides explosive surface action when schools are located feeding on baitfish. The combination of blistering runs, acrobatic jumps, and incredible stamina makes yellowfin tuna one of the most exciting game fish species to target on lighter tackle.
Bluefin tuna occasionally appear in New Zealand waters but are rare compared to yellowfin. When encountered, bluefin tend to be significantly larger, with specimens over 100kg caught by anglers targeting other species.
Sharks
The Bay of Islands offers excellent shark fishing throughout the year, with the best action between December and April. Four main species are commonly targeted:
Mako Sharks are the most prized game shark species, known for spectacular aerial displays and blistering runs. Mako are regularly caught between 50-150kg, with larger specimens appearing each season. These are among the fastest fish in the ocean and provide thrilling fights on appropriate tackle.
Blue Sharks are abundant and provide consistent action, particularly when other species are less active. While not as highly regarded as mako, blue sharks fight hard and can reach impressive sizes over 100kg.
Bronze Whaler Sharks frequent the Bay’s waters and are commonly encountered while targeting other species. These powerful sharks provide strong, determined fights.
Thresher Sharks are occasionally caught, identifiable by their distinctive elongated tail fin. These unique sharks use their tail to stun baitfish before eating them.
Why the Bay of Islands Produces Giant Game Fish
The Bay of Islands sits at a unique convergence point where the warm East Australian Current meets cooler temperate waters. This creates perfect conditions for big game fishing. Warm water flowing down the east coast of the North Island carries schools of baitfish, which attract the trophy billfish and pelagic predators that game fishers dream about.
New Zealand’s location at the southern edge of many game fish species’ range means we get the largest specimens. Smaller fish lack the strength and stamina to travel this far south, while the giants arrive to feast on the concentrated baitfish populations hugging our coastline. Water temperatures between 19-22°C during summer provide ideal hunting conditions for marlin, tuna, and other game species.
The Bay’s sheltered waters and numerous islands provide excellent launching points for offshore fishing. From Paihia, Russell, and Opua, you’re typically just 30-60 minutes from productive game fishing grounds, making even half-day charters viable for serious fishing.
The Game Fishing Season
The Bay of Islands game fishing season typically runs from late December through May, though timing varies by species and water temperatures.
Early Season (December-January): The season begins as water temperatures rise above 19°C. Early striped marlin start appearing, along with the first yellowfin tuna. Shark fishing picks up as temperatures warm. This period sees fewer boats on the water and good availability with charter operators.
Peak Season (February-March): This is prime time with striped marlin abundant, blue marlin arriving in numbers, and yellowfin tuna schools active. Most tournament fishing happens during these months. Book well in advance as this is the busiest period.
Late Season (April-May): Striped marlin and blue marlin remain catchable, though numbers decline as temperatures cool. Swordfish fishing improves significantly. Some yellowfin tuna remain active. This period offers excellent fishing with fewer boats and better charter availability.
Winter (June-August): While not traditional game fishing season, winter offers specialized opportunities for swordfish and some yellowfin tuna. Experienced anglers targeting these species during winter months often find success with less competition.
Game Fishing Techniques
Trolling
Trolling remains the most common technique for marlin and tuna. Charter boats typically troll multiple lures or rigged baits at varying distances behind the boat, covering water to locate feeding fish. Lure selection varies by conditions, target species, and skipper preference, but skirted lures in various colors and sizes form the backbone of most spreads.
Speed is critical when trolling for billfish. Most skippers troll at 7-9 knots, creating the right action on lures to trigger strikes. When a fish is hooked, the boat slows or stops to allow the angler to fight the fish without the boat’s momentum.
Live Baiting
Live baiting with skipjack tuna, kahawai, or other baitfish is deadly on marlin, tuna, and sharks. Once baitfish are caught, they’re kept alive in circulation tanks and deployed when game fish are sighted or in known productive areas. Live baits swim naturally and trigger aggressive strikes from predators.
Chunking and Berleying
Chunking involves cutting up baitfish and deploying pieces to create a scent trail that attracts sharks, tuna, and other predators. This technique works particularly well for sharks and can bring fish up from depth to the boat. Berley trails combined with live or dead baits suspended at varying depths produce consistent results.
Stand-Up and Heavy Tackle
Game fishing tackle has evolved considerably. Traditional fighting chairs remain available for targeting the largest fish, but stand-up fishing with appropriate harnesses has become increasingly popular. Stand-up tackle allows anglers greater mobility and a more active fight, though it requires more physical fitness and technique.
Tackle classes vary from 15kg (37lb) line for smaller yellowfin tuna up to 60kg (130lb) for the largest marlin and sharks. Most charter boats carry a range of tackle to suit target species, conditions, and angler preferences.
Regulations and Conservation
Bag Limits and Size Restrictions
Marlin, swordfish, and sharks have specific regulations governing recreational catch. Current regulations require all marlin to be released unless dead or dying, in which case they must be reported. Swordfish have minimum size requirements, and various shark species have different regulations.
Always check current Ministry for Primary Industries regulations before fishing, as rules change. Your charter operator will ensure you’re fishing legally.
Tag and Release Programs
New Zealand’s billfish tag-and-release program has operated for decades, providing valuable data on fish movements, growth rates, and population health. The data collected from tagged fish contributes to conservation and management decisions that protect these species for future generations.
Tournament Fishing
The Bay of Islands hosts several prestigious game fishing tournaments during the season, including the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club’s various competitions. These tournaments bring together top anglers and boats, showcasing the best of the sport. Even if you’re not competing, visiting during tournament periods lets you experience the excitement and see serious game fishing operations in action.
Tips for Successful Game Fishing
Physical Preparation
Game fishing is physically demanding. Fighting a large marlin for 1 to 2 hours requires strength, stamina, and technique. If you’re planning a game fishing trip, basic fitness helps enormously. Core strength, leg strength, and cardiovascular fitness all contribute to successfully landing fish.
Practice with stand-up harnesses if possible before your trip. The motion and technique differ significantly from rod-and-reel fishing, and familiarity with the equipment helps when you hook into a fish.
What to Bring
Sun protection is critical on game fishing trips. Bring high-SPF sunscreen and reapply regularly. Long-sleeved fishing shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and polarised sunglasses protect you from intense UV exposure reflected off the water. Layered clothing works best. Mornings offshore are cold even in summer, but midday sun can be intense. Bring a warm jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles. Remove all jewelry before fishing, as it can catch on lines or equipment. Pack additional snacks and plenty of water, as the sun and salt air increase dehydration.
Learning the Techniques
If you’re new to game fishing, tell your skipper. They’ll teach you proper technique for fighting fish, using the harness, and working with the crew. Don’t be embarrassed to ask questions or request help. Watch and learn from the crew during the day. Professional mates demonstrate line handling, bait rigging, and fish handling techniques that make the difference between success and failure.
Photography and Memories
Game fishing provides incredible photo opportunities. Bring a waterproof camera or protect your phone in a waterproof case. The best photos happen during the fight and release, when everyone is focused on the fish. Designate someone to take photos if possible, as the angler and crew will be occupied.
Many charters now use GoPros and action cameras to record fights, providing video memories of your experience. Ask about photo and video services when booking.
Beyond the Bay: Other Game Fishing Locations
While the Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s most famous game fishing destination, other North Island locations offer excellent opportunities:
Tutukaka (1.5 hours south) is another top game fishing port with easy access to deep water and productive grounds. This coastline produced New Zealand’s world record striped marlin.
Great Barrier Island offers remote game fishing opportunities with less fishing pressure and excellent catches for those willing to make the journey.
Planning Your Game Fishing Trip
Best Time to Visit
For the best chance at marlin, plan your visit for the peak season. This period sees the highest fish numbers and best weather, though availability and prices reflect demand. Early season (late December to January) and late season (April to May) offer good fishing with better availability and sometimes lower prices.
If targeting swordfish specifically, March through July provides the best opportunities, with winter months producing excellent catches despite being outside traditional game fishing season.
Length of Stay
Game fishing requires commitment. A single-day charter provides a taste of the experience, but fish don’t cooperate on schedule. Serious anglers typically book multiple days to improve their chances of success.
Minimum commitment: 2-3 days allows for one or two fishing days with a weather buffer. This provides a reasonable chance of getting offshore and hooking fish.
Ideal trip: 5-7 days with 3-4 days fishing and buffer days for weather. Multiple days on the water dramatically increase your chances of success and allow you to fish different techniques and areas.
Serious campaigns: Extended trips of 10+ days allow you to fish consistently, work through weather systems, and experience everything game fishing offers. Many overseas anglers spend 2-3 weeks targeting New Zealand marlin during peak season.
For detailed advice on accommodation and planning your overall Bay of Islands visit, check out our planning your visit guide. For accommodation options, visit our accommodation page.
Getting There
Game fishing charters depart from Paihia, Russell, and Opua. These towns are easily accessible:
From Auckland Airport: 3.5 hours drive north via State Highway 1, several daily coach services, or 35-minute regional flights to Kerikeri Airport followed by a 20-minute drive.
From Whangārei: 1 hour drive north via State Highway 1, with multiple daily bus services.
For detailed directions, visit our directions page.
Ready to Battle Giants?
The Bay of Islands offers world-class game fishing in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. From trophy striped marlin and massive blue marlin to hard-fighting yellowfin tuna and acrobatic mako sharks, these waters deliver the experiences serious anglers travel the world to find.
Whether you’re an experienced game fisher or dreaming of your first billfish, the Bay of Islands’ combination of proven productivity, stunning scenery, and professional charter operators creates the perfect destination for serious fishing.
The giants are waiting. Start planning your Bay of Islands game fishing adventure today.
