GREYMOUTH FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Two Days on the Edge: Winter Game Fishing off Greymouth’s Hokitika Trench
A private, two-day winter expedition from Greymouth targeting Southern Bluefin Tuna and Bluenose; this guide lays out what to expect, what to pack, and how the trip runs.
Two Days on the Edge: Winter Game Fishing off Greymouth’s Hokitika Trench.
Off New Zealand’s West Coast, winter seas hide some of the planet’s most formidable game fish. This private, two-day expedition launches from Greymouth, crosses the bar and rides out to the Hokitika Trench to chase legendary Southern Bluefin (often 80–300+ kg) and the powerful Bluenose—an intense mix of daylight trolling and bait work followed by deliberate night chumming with fresh hoki.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hunt for Southern Bluefin and Bluenose
The trip targets iconic West Coast game species, notably Southern Bluefin Tuna—fish often measured in the hundreds of kilograms—and the potent Bluenose that make this fishery renowned.
Trolling by day, chumming by night
Anglers alternate between trolling with lures and bait during daylight and deploying fresh hoki for chumming after dark—three complementary approaches that create varied action across the multi-day window.
Overnight fishery on the Hokitika Trench
Expect an overnight fishery experience framed by rugged West Coast seascapes, where strategy, camaraderie, and the long haul of a two-day quest define the trip.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
This is concentrated, high-stakes fishing: a safety briefing and quick stow in Greymouth, a crossing of the bar, then sustained periods of trolling and bait fishing in prime trench water by day and deliberate chumming with fresh hoki through the night. You fish in shifts, manage lines and tackle for big sport, and return after two days of continuous action that demand focus and stamina.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The winter fishing window runs from June through 30 August; departures are limited and highly weather- and tide-dependent.
Bring warm clothing and waterproof gear, night-fishing essentials, a sleeping bag and pillow (berths available but no bedding provided), and a large chilly bin for your catch (ice supplied).
Meet and depart from Greymouth; the operator caps groups at four for vessel compliance, and exact departure timing will depend on weather and tides.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
This is a two-day expedition.
Where do we meet and depart from?
The trip departs from Greymouth.
When is the fishing window?
The winter fishing window runs from June through 30 August.
How many people are allowed per trip?
Maximum group size is four to meet vessel survey requirements.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm, waterproof clothing, night-fishing essentials, a sleeping bag and pillow (the vessel has berths but no bedding), and a large chilly bin for your catch—ice is supplied.
Are departures guaranteed on advertised dates?
No—departure windows are limited and highly dependent on weather and tide conditions, so schedules may shift for safety.