Taupō is a world-renowned fly-fishing destination. Rainbow and brown trout are the resident inhabitants, and they spawn by the hundreds of thousands in Taupō’s rivers every year. Trout can’t be bought or sold commercially in New Zealand, which means you won’t find trout on the menu at your favourite Taupō restaurant. This prohibition is aimed at protecting the sustainability of recreational trout fishery.
While you cannot purchase trout at a local eatery or shop, you can catch it wild and fresh yourself for a memorable foodie experience.
The region’s chefs are skilled at preparing your fresh catch to enhance its delicate texture and unique flavour – smoked overnight, fresh to savour its pure, clean taste, pan-fried with simple ingredients to enhance its sweet notes. Or baked whole at Vine Eatery & Bar, the richness balanced by tangy black olives, sharp sundried tomatoes and fresh herbs.
You can book a fishing charter where the skipper will prepare your fish onboard.
Or take your catch in to one of the local restaurants. The chefs at Taupō restaurants and luxury lodges will be happy to prepare your catch for you – just book in advance to savour the ultimate taste of the region.