Ruapehu and the surrounding area boast world-class wilderness fishing, with its crystal clear waters flowing through remote native bush away from the madding crowd.
Offering angling of all types, from trophy lake fishing in Lake Otamangakau to sight fishing for large trout in smaller streams and rivers. There are great fishing spots throughout Ruapehu with the main rivers being the Whanganui River, Whakapapa River, Manganui o te Ao River, Mangawhero River, Retaruke River and Ongarue River.
Visitors who want to go fresh water fishing must first purchase a licence from Fish and Game New Zealand. The licence fees are primarily charged to cover the cost of managing the fish and birds and the habitat they depend on.
Fishing licences can be used in any of the 12 regions however a separate fishing licence is required for the Lake Taupo fishery which is administered by the Department of Conservation. Visitors should note that Ruapehu is covered in 2 of the 12 Fish and Game regions; Auckland/Waikato and Taranaki.
Local guides are available to show visitors their favourite spots and will assist with licences and obtaining permission to cross private land where required. The Tongariro River at the southern end of Lake Taupo is a short drive from most towns and villages in Ruapehu and is considered one of the best trout fishing rivers in the world.