Catch-A-Fish
The Ultimate Guided "Big Fish" Salmon Fishing Experience!
Have you ever wanted to catch your own salmon, but thought it would be too hard? Now you can experience catching a beautiful glacial mountain salmon with no hassles at all! No experience required, no gear required, and suitable for all ages!
High Country Salmon is now offering an amazing "Catch-A-Fish" salmon fishing experience at our farm near Twizel in the Mackenzie District. All you have to do is book online, turn up and catch yourself a glacial mountain salmon!
IMPORTANT! This experience may not operate occasionally, due to short staffing. If you don't book online, we can't guarantee you will be able to do this activity.
To book online, click here!
To view our information sheet, click here!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How much does it cost?
A: You only pay for the weight of the salmon you catch at $35 per kg. There is also a $10 booking charge that also includes the guide and equipment hire. For example, the total cost of the experience and the salmon when you catch a 2.5kg fish would be $97.50.
Q: Can I bring my own fishing rod?
A: No, due to biosecurity issues we can't allow rods that have been used in other locations.
Q: How old do you have to be?
A: Any age! Children 12 years and under must be supervised by an adult.
Q: If I catch a salmon and don't want it, can I put it back?
A: No you can't - you have to purchase what you catch. We have a "no catch and release" policy.
Q: How big are the salmon I can catch:
A: The pen has salmon that range from 2.0kg to 5.0kg. This size is significantly larger than other operators, so you can get to feel what it is like to reel in a big fish! The average size of salmon caught is displayed in our cafe. If you catch a fish larger than 5kg and want a smaller one, we can swap this out for you.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: We recommend bringing some warm clothes and a rain jacket in case of bad weather. You can also bring a chilly bin to take your salmon home in if you would like.
Q: What happens once I've caught a fish?
A: Once you have landed your salmon, one of our staff will remove it from the hook for you and humanely kill it. They will then weigh the salmon (and record the weight) then clean it by removing the gills and guts. The salmon will then be taken cafe/fish shop for pickup and payment. We will pack your salmon in a box with ice to keep it cool for no extra cost.
Q: How likely is it that I will catch a salmon?
A: It is highly likely you will catch a fish! Occasionally the salmon are stressed (lots of lines, new fish added) and they won't be biting. We may need to close the experience and decline walk-ins when the probability of catching a salmon is low.
Q: I have my whole family with me - can they watch?
A: Of course! The area where you catch the salmon is next to our floating deck, and there is a landscaped area with picnic tables where your family can watch the action from. Just book for the number of fish you want to catch - not how many people in your group.
Q: What days and times can I do this?
A: Our Catch-A-Fish runs from 10am until 2pm Monday to Friday, and 9am until 2pm on weekends, public holidays and school holidays.
Q: Do I need to book?
A: Yes please! This will guarantee your spot. We may accept walk-ins depending on availability, but it is safest to book.
Q: Can I get my salmon filleted, and can you cook it for me?
A: Filleting and vacuum packing is available for and extra $10 per fish. We can't cook it for you but in the future we hope to also have some wine-barrel smokers you can hire so you can cook your salmon on the spot - keep an eye out here, and on our Facebook page for updates.