Top fly fishing experiences in Taupō

Another fishy tale from Taupō

Nothing makes a fish bigger than almost being caught — but with the right guided experience, you can turn tales into trophies. If you’re after a world-class fly-fishing adventure, Taupō is the place to be. From luxury lodges to backcountry heli-fishing and legendary trout-filled rivers, this region is an angler’s paradise.

To help you land the real thing, we’ve rounded up the top five operator experiences for guided fishing. And as a bonus kicker, we’ve also curated the five best fishing stores for gear, expert tips, and maybe even a great coffee!

Fishing with the experts in Taupō

Chris Jolly Outdoors – Premium fishing & lake adventures

• Best for: Lake Taupō charters and river experiences
• Why choose them? Offering high-end guided experiences, Chris Jolly Outdoors combines expert guiding with top-tier boats and equipment. Whether you want a scenic day on the lake or a heli-fishing expedition into backcountry waters, this operator knows the feeling of a heavy net.

Tongariro River Rafting – white water and wild trout

• Best for: Backcountry drift fishing
• Why choose them? Perfect for anglers who want a more adventurous fishing trip, Tongariro River Rafting gets you to untouched fishing spots via raft (most of the upper river can only be reached by kayak or raft), providing an exciting and unique way to fish the world famous Tongariro River.

Poronui – the ultimate luxury fly fishing escape

• Best for: Exclusive, high-end fly-fishing experiences
• Why choose them? Poronui is New Zealand’s premier luxury fishing lodge, offering private access to some of the best trout waters in the country. With world-class guides, heli-fishing, and five-star hospitality, this is the pinnacle of fly fishing in Taupō. Bucket list fishing is calling!

Riverstone Fly Fishing – true off-the-grid wilderness fishing

• Best for: Heli-fishing and remote trout hunting
• Why choose them? If you’re after true wilderness fishing, Riverstone Fly Fishing provides guided heli-trips and remote wading experiences. Their experiences cover single day, multi-day or overnight camping trips across Taupō, Tongariro and Central North Island.

Bonus: Independent Guides – local knowledge

Taupō is packed with skilled independent guides, perfect for anglers wanting a flexible, tailored trip. A quick Google search will bring up many operators with social media profiles showcasing their expertise.

• Best for: Personalised, one-on-one coaching and tailored trips
• Why choose them? Independent guides offer deep local knowledge of the waters and ecosystems with fully customised fishing experiences. You might even be shown a secret spot or two.
• Not sure where to start? Drop into one of Taupō’s top fishing stores (listed below) and ask the local experts for their recommendations that suit your vibe.

The 4 best fishing stores in Taupō and Tūrangi

Before you get your lines wet, make sure you’re kitted out with the best gear (all the gear… with a few ideas). These five fishing stores offer everything from high-end rods to the best local fishing advice. They are the true secret spots when it comes to fly fishing in Taupō.

Taupō Rod & Tackle – local fishing hub

• Location: Taupō Town (4 Tamamutu Street, Taupō 3330)
• Why go here? Expert advice, premium tackle, and gear hire for both self-guided trips and local charters.

Hunting & Fishing Taupō – gear up for any adventure

• Location: Taupō Town (27 Gascoigne Street, Taupō 3330)
• Why go here? A well-stocked outdoor store that covers everything from waders to flies, plus gear for hunting and other adventures.

Sporting Life Tūrangi – fly-fishing specialist

• Location: Tūrangi (60 Tūrangi Town Centre, The Mall, Tūrangi 3334)
• Why go here? This legendary shop is packed with top-tier gear and insider knowledge, making it a must-visit for any angler heading to the mighty Tongariro River. Enough flies to sink a… kayak?!

Hamills Taupō – outdoor specialists

• Location: Taupō (109 Tongariro Street, Taupō 3330)
• Why go here? A well-established store with a strong reputation, Hamills Taupō offers a great selection of fly-fishing tackle, rods, reels, and accessories, plus knowledgeable staff who know the local waters. This is a solid option for gearing up.

From expert guides to the best tackle stores, Taupō has everything you need for an unforgettable fly-fishing adventure. Whether you're chasing the trout of a lifetime in the backcountry or casting a line in the mighty Tongariro, this is where stories aren’t just told — they’re reeled in. So, book a trip, stock up, gear up, and get ready to land ‘a beaudy’. Tight lines!