Nelson Tasman Sea fishing forecast
Nelson Tasman Sea is a saltwater fishing spot in Nelson NZ, New Zealand. Anglers here target Yellowtail Kingfish, Mutton Snapper. The most productive months are typically November, December, January, February, March, April, May.
Current conditions
| Sea surface temp | 12.3 °C |
|---|---|
| Wind | 5 km/h from SW |
| Wave height | 0.2 m at 5 s |
| Current | 0.04 m/s toward E |
| Pressure | 1030 hPa |
| Depth | 6 m |
| Cloud cover | 77% |
Last updated Jul 20, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.
What the score means at Nelson Tasman Sea
Nelson Tasman Sea currently scores 93 out of 100 (Good). Water temperature is 12.3 °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 Nelson Tasman Sea:
About this spot
Open coastal saltwater — conditions and safety depend heavily on the live wind, wave, and tide forecast, so check them before you head out.
Approximate bottom depth: 6 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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Seriola lalandi
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Lutjanus analis
Best months by species at Nelson Tasman Sea
| Yellowtail KingfishSeriola lalandi | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mutton SnapperLutjanus analis |
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 Nelson Tasman Sea 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 359 km of Nelson Tasman Sea.
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Kaikoura Canyon
Kaikoura Coast NZ
Whanganui River NZ
Tongariro River NZ
Lake Taupo New Zealand
Frequently asked questions
What fish can you catch at Nelson Tasman Sea?
Anglers at Nelson Tasman Sea target Yellowtail Kingfish and Mutton Snapper.
When is the best time to fish Nelson Tasman Sea?
The most productive months at Nelson Tasman Sea are typically November, December, January, February, March, April, May.
What is the fishing forecast for Nelson Tasman Sea right now?
Nelson Tasman Sea currently scores 93 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.
Do you need a licence to fish Nelson Tasman Sea?
Fishing at Nelson Tasman Sea follows the local rules for Nelson 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 Yellowtail Kingfish: Taming the Brown BomberHow to Read Tides for FishingHow to Read a Fishing Forecast
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.