Finding the best fishing charters in Napier starts at the port, where skippers head out into Hawke Bay for snapper, gurnard, tarakihi, kingfish and, further offshore, marlin, tuna and mako shark. A fishing charter in Napier supplies the boat, rods, tackle and bait, so families, visitors and keen anglers can spend a half or full day bottom fishing, light tackle fishing or game fishing with a skipper who knows the local grounds. Rampant Charters and Mr Fishing Adventures both run private trips from Napier for small groups.
1Rampant Charters
Rampant Charters is a Hawke’s Bay fishing and boat charter run by owner and skipper Graeme Bee from Napier Port on Breakwater Road. Trips run aboard a purpose-built 7m catamaran with all tackle and bait supplied, and cover everything from bottom fishing for table fish to game fishing and shark encounters further out. It suits families with children, groups of friends and experienced anglers wanting a light tackle challenge.
Services
- Game fishing for marlin, tuna and kingfish
- Bottom fishing for snapper, gurnard and tarakihi
- Light tackle fishing
- Shark encounters with mako and blue sharks
- Private cruises for up to 7 people, with a BBQ on the water
Highlights
- Established in 2005
- 7m Blade Runner alloy catamaran with twin 100hp four-stroke Honda outboards and an enclosed cuddy cabin
- Skipper born and bred in Hawke’s Bay with over 20 years’ experience and several senior and junior club records
- Kid-friendly charters, with dolphins, orca, seals and albatross often seen on trips
Location & Contact
Name: Rampant Charters
Address: Napier Port, Breakwater Road, Napier 4110
Phone: 027 726 7268
Website: rampantcharters.co.nz
2Mr Fishing Adventures
Mr Fishing Adventures is a tailor-made fishing charter led by skipper Hamish Williams, who grew up fishing the East Coast. Its Hawke’s Bay ocean fishing trips depart from the Hawke’s Bay Sports Fishing Club in Napier as half or full-day bottom fishing charters, and the business also guides trout fishing and scenic trips further afield. It suits groups of mates, families and corporate outings who want the day built around their own goals.
Services
- Half-day and full-day bottom fishing from Napier for gurnard, snapper, blue cod, tarakihi, groper and kingfish
- Big game saltwater fishing at Waihau Bay
- Lake Taupō trout fishing and Tongariro delta fly fishing
- Scenic tours
Highlights
- 8.5m Pinnacle vessel named “Next Level”
- Skipper with over 20 years’ fishing experience
- Rods, reels, terminal tackle, bait, berley and salt ice supplied, for groups of up to 6
Location & Contact
Name: Mr Fishing Adventures
Address: Hawke’s Bay Sports Fishing Club, Napier
Phone: 027 248 2327
Website: mrfishing.nz
How to Choose the Right Fishing Charter in Napier
- Match the trip to your target: bottom fishing for snapper, gurnard and tarakihi stays closer in, while game fishing for marlin, tuna and mako means a longer run offshore.
- Check the boat size and passenger limit, as most Napier charter boats take a small private group rather than individual bookings.
- Ask what is supplied, such as rods, reels, bait, berley and ice, and what you need to bring, like food, drinks and a chilly bin.
- Consider who is coming: families with young children, beginners and experienced light tackle anglers all suit different trips.
- Confirm the departure point and the weather policy, since sea conditions in Hawke Bay decide whether a trip goes ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Napier Fishing Charters
Where do fishing charters leave from in Napier?
Napier charter boats generally depart from the port area and Ahuriri, including Napier Port on Breakwater Road and the Hawke’s Bay Sports Fishing Club. Both are a short drive from the city centre, Westshore and Bluff Hill, and your skipper will confirm the exact meeting point when you book.
What fish can you catch on a fishing charter in Napier?
Bottom fishing in Hawke Bay targets table fish such as snapper, gurnard, tarakihi, blue cod and groper, with kingfish also on the list. Game fishing trips further offshore target marlin, tuna and sharks such as mako, depending on the season.
Do I need a fishing licence to go on a sea fishing charter?
No licence is needed for recreational sea fishing in New Zealand, but daily bag limits and minimum sizes still apply to what you keep. You can check the current rules for the area on the Ministry for Primary Industries fishing rules page. Freshwater trout fishing does require a licence.
Is fishing gear supplied on a charter?
Most charters supply rods, reels, tackle and bait, and some add berley and ice for your catch. Bring clothing suited to the weather, suitable footwear, food and drinks, and a chilly bin to take your fish home.
Are fishing charters suitable for children and beginners?
Yes. Many charter skippers run family-friendly bottom fishing trips where the crew helps with baiting, casting and landing fish, which makes it an easy first fishing trip for children and adults who have never fished from a boat.
How long is a typical fishing trip from Napier?
Charters usually run as half-day or full-day trips. Half days suit bottom fishing close to the coast, while game fishing and trips out to deeper grounds generally need a full day.
Can I book a private boat charter for a group?
Most charter boats in Napier take small private groups of around six anglers, so booking the whole boat for friends, family or a work outing is common. Some operators also offer non-fishing cruises with a BBQ on board.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Skippers check sea and wind conditions before each trip and will postpone or reschedule if it is unsafe or too rough to fish. Ask about the rebooking policy when you book.