MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS FISHING

View the sounds from the locals perspective in our vessel MV Tory

Sounds Connection offers several charter packages to accomodate all parties who are keen to get out on the Queen Charlotte Sound. Our skippers, no the area like no one else, and can accomodate your interests whether you are a seasoned fisherman or just keen to get out on the water and take a look around. With beautiful landscapes, an abundance of wildlife and a vessel that is comfortable for all, you’re in for a real Marlborough experience.
Please select a fishing tour from the below options to find out more information and book online.

“I would rate this tour as absolute value for money, and my choice of another trip with the Sounds Connection team was the highlight of my visit to Marlborough.

Barry, from Perth

Marlborough Sounds Fishing Charters

Hungry for some self caught Kai Moana? Keen to get out and see what the sounds are all about? Check out the video below!

BOOK NOW
TRY YOUR LUCK WITH OUR HALF DAY FISHING CHARTER
Our fishing charters are famous! Get out on the water and try your luck.

Why Choose A Sounds Connection Fishing Charter?


KNOWLEDGEABLE & CONNECTED

Our local, experienced guides never tire of sharing their slice of paradise with you! Our strong partnerships with accommodation providers and tourist attraction operators means we can work collaboratively to create magical memories for you

IN YOUR OWN TIME, IN YOUR OWN WAY

We’ll do our best to focus the tour on what you are most interested in. Whether you would like to take it slow and have a look around, or you want to chase the big ones - we can find what you are looking for.

Comfortable, Safe & Fun

MV Tory offers in door and outdoor seating so everyone is comfortable and warm. Her design ensures a comfortable movement in the water and our skippers are experts at finding conditions that are fun for everyone. Learn more



What Customers Say


  • “I cannot thank you enough for making our day out with you to the Sounds last Wednesday so memorable, and for the bus service on the Thursday to the car museum. Your driver gave a fascinating run-down on the route, and the Tory was exactly right for our group of twelve.”
    Bernard
    Group Tour (with transfer, wine tour & fishing all in one)
  • “This was one of the best days we have ever had as a family. The Marlborough Sounds are one of New Zealand’s best holiday spots and Mark is so knowledgeable and so willing to share this knowledge. We caught so many fish and so many different varieties. After the most amazing day out on the water Mark filleted our fish for us.”
    Bernadette
    Fishing Charter
  • “A quick note to say thanks to you and Capt Mark (& First Mate Hamish) for a fantastic day on the water. The boys thoroughly enjoyed the experience of fishing with the extra bonus of seeing birds, seals and dolphins.”
    Liz Young
    Fishing Charter

Fishing Charter FAQ

What kind of fishing trip can I take?

Sounds Connection offers a half day (4-hour) fishing trip in the idyllic Inner Queen Charlotte Sound, or a full day (8-hour) trip in which you can venture further afield and even include a stop at one of the great Sounds resorts for lunch, if you fancy. We can also tailor trips to suit your specific group, interests and needs. Talk to us today to get the trip that’s right for you.

Where do your charters depart from?

Our fishing charters usually depart out of Picton. Our Fishing Charter depart from Picton Commercial Wharf – located on the Picton waterfront (first jetty, first vessel). The name of our vessel is “MV TORY”. If you’re staying in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and wish to be collected from your resort, holiday home or family bach – that’s not a problem! Sounds Connection can collect you from one of the many resorts or holiday homes in the Queen Charlotte Sound. Please note additional charges may apply. 

How much do your fishing charters cost?

We offer a vast range of options, depending on how long you want to go for, your group’s level of experience, your budget and so on. Please get in touch with us and we can have a chat about what you’re interested in – and we can tailor a package to suit.

Do you provide fishing tackle and gear?

Yes, we provide everything! This includes the experienced skipper, tackle, rods, bait, tea and coffee. Bring your own lunch with you or we can arrange to stop at one of the great Sounds resorts for a bite, if you’re on one of our longer charters.

What should I bring?

Bring a camera for the fantastic photo opportunities! Sunhat, sunscreen and a light jacket to ward off any sea breezes are also important.

How many people can you take on a fishing charter?

All charters are suitable for 1–12 passengers although larger vessels are available on request.

What kind of fish can we catch in the Marlborough Sounds?

The fish species we most commonly land include blue cod, snapper, terakihi, kingfish, butterfish, hapuku, skate, and perch. Please note that at certain times of the year blue cod is catch and release only. Get in touch to organise your dream fishing trip, and let us know if there’s something in particular you’re after. Obviously we can’t pre-order the fish to jump on your line, but we can let you know if it’s the right season to catch and keep blue cod, or whether it might be possible to come home with some shellfish, for example.

What are the rules about blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds?

The main regulations you need to know about fishing for blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds are:

The season is open every year from 20 December – 31 August (both days inclusive).
The season is closed every year from 1 September – 19 December (both days inclusive).
You can only take or possess 2 blue cod per fisher at any one time. This applies even if you caught the fish from outside the area and you are transporting the fish through the area.
You can only have blue cod that are a minimum of 33cm in length. There is not a maximum size stipulated.
Full fish must be brought ashore before filleting.

We make it a priority to remain familiar with all relevant regulations, and abide by them – so we can help you with any questions you may have about your specific situation. You can also find out more on the Ministry for Primary Industries website.

View all Tours
Find more unforgettable Marlborough experiences!