Tasman Sea · New Zealand

Kaikoura Canyon fishing forecast

96 Good of 100

Kaikoura Canyon is a saltwater fishing spot in Tasman Sea, New Zealand. Anglers here target Albacore, Hapuka, Bluenose Warehou. The most productive months are typically December, January, February, March, April.

Quick answer
Best monthsDecember, January, February, March
Top speciesAlbacore, Hapuka, Bluenose Warehou
Score now96/100
Local rulesNew Zealand
Pressure trend
Pressure data unavailable
Best window today
18:00 · Light wind (0 km/h) and calm seas
Next solunar peak
minor 10:39

Current conditions

Sea surface temp12.6 °C
Wind9 km/h from W
Wave height1.1 m at 6 s
Current0.12 m/s toward NNE
Pressure1013 hPa
Depth12 m
Cloud cover15%

Last updated Jun 7, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.

Bite windows

Moon
Last Quarter · 57% lit
Solunar day rating
50 / 100

Best months for Kaikoura Canyon:

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

What you can catch

Local regulations

New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)
New Zealand

Licensing:

  • saltwater-recreational — residents No licence required for recreational sea fishing in New Zealand coastal marine area., non-residents No licence required.

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 Kaikoura Canyon 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

Frequently asked questions

What fish can you catch at Kaikoura Canyon?

Anglers at Kaikoura Canyon target Albacore, Hapuka, and Bluenose Warehou.

When is the best time to fish Kaikoura Canyon?

The most productive months at Kaikoura Canyon are typically December, January, February, March, April.

What is the fishing forecast for Kaikoura Canyon right now?

Kaikoura Canyon currently scores 96 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.

Do you need a licence to fish Kaikoura Canyon?

Fishing at Kaikoura Canyon follows the local rules for Tasman Sea, 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.

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.