Fiordland West Coast NZ fishing forecast
Fiordland West Coast NZ is a saltwater fishing spot in Southland NZ, New Zealand. Anglers here target Pacific Albacore, Pacific Salmon, Patagonian Toothfish. The most productive months are typically November, December, January, February, March, April.
Current conditions
| Sea surface temp | 13.4 °C |
|---|---|
| Wind | 32 km/h from NNE |
| Wave height | 2.2 m at 10 s |
| Current | 0.19 m/s toward SW |
| Pressure | 1021 hPa |
| Depth | 744 m |
| Cloud cover | 100% |
Last updated Jul 22, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.
What the score means at Fiordland West Coast NZ
Fiordland West Coast NZ currently scores 51 out of 100 (Good). Water temperature is 13.4 °C. 8 forecast signals are active in this score. As a rough guide, a score above ~65 reflects conditions experienced anglers would typically fish; below ~45, consider waiting for a better window or targeting different species. The score blends live weather and ocean signals and can change through the day.
Bite windows
Best months for Fiordland West Coast NZ:
About this spot
Channels concentrate moving water and strong tidal flow. The bite often picks up at slack water and through the first hour of the flood or ebb.
Approximate bottom depth: 744 m Depth is GEBCO-derived bathymetry, approximate only — not a nautical chart. Do not use for navigation or anchoring.
What you can catch
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Thunnus alalunga
-
Oncorhynchus spp.
-
Dissostichus eleginoides
Best months by species at Fiordland West Coast NZ
| Pacific AlbacoreThunnus alalunga | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific SalmonOncorhynchus spp. | ||||||||||||
| Patagonian ToothfishDissostichus eleginoides |
Months reflect typical catchability by species at this latitude; local seasons and closures apply.
Local regulations
Licensing:
- saltwater-recreational — residents No licence required for recreational sea fishing in New Zealand coastal marine area., non-residents No licence required.
Some rules may have changed since our last verification — always confirm with the authority before you fish.
FishRadar regulations are summaries for informational purposes only. NZ fishing rules vary by Quota Management Area (QMA). Always verify with MPI at mpi.govt.nz before fishing.
Check Fiordland West Coast NZ before you go
Live scores update through the day. Get the full forecast, bite windows, and your own saved spots in the FishRadar app.
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Nearby spots
Explore 5 more fishing spots within 874 km of Fiordland West Coast NZ.
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Fiordland Sounds
Kaikoura Canyon
Kaikoura Coast NZ
Nelson Tasman Sea
Whanganui River NZ
Frequently asked questions
What fish can you catch at Fiordland West Coast NZ?
Anglers at Fiordland West Coast NZ target Pacific Albacore, Pacific Salmon and Patagonian Toothfish.
When is the best time to fish Fiordland West Coast NZ?
The most productive months at Fiordland West Coast NZ are typically November, December, January, February, March, April.
What is the fishing forecast for Fiordland West Coast NZ right now?
Fiordland West Coast NZ currently scores 51 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.
Do you need a licence to fish Fiordland West Coast NZ?
Fishing at Fiordland West Coast NZ follows the local rules for Southland NZ, New Zealand. Bag limits, size limits, seasons and licence requirements are summarised in the Local regulations section above, with a link to the official authority.
Fishing guides for this spot
- How to Catch Albacore: Chasing the Speedsters Along the Temperature BreakHow to Catch Salmon: Kings, Coho, and SockeyeHow to Read Tides for Fishing
Scores and conditions are forecasts for guidance only and can change rapidly. Always check local rules and current conditions, follow all fishing regulations, and prioritise your safety on the water.