🐟 Species in New Zealand

New Zealand freshwater eel fisheries are dominated by two native species:

• Longfin eels (Anguilla dieffenbachii) – larger, more prized, and ecologically sensitive.

• Shortfin eels (Anguilla australis) – more abundant and robust.
  A third species, the Australian longfin eel, can appear in the North Island but is uncommon.

These species are culturally significant and have been harvested in Aotearoa for centuries.

🧭 Legal & Sustainability Framework

Before heading out:

• Recreational bag limit: You may take up to six eels per person per day (mixed species).

• Gear limits: Only one fyke net per person is allowed.

• Protected areas: Eel harvesting is prohibited in DOC-managed reserves and national parks.

• Size consideration: While there’s no maximum size limit for recreational fishers, fisheries agencies recommend releasing large eels (especially longfin females) to help populations recover.

Respect all local rules and sustainability guidance — eel stocks (especially longfin) have declined in recent years.

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🧰 Traditional Māori Techniques

Mātauranga Māori (traditional knowledge) offers time-honoured eel-catching methods that are still effective today.

🪝 1. Bobbing (toi)

A traditional tactile line method:

• Use flax or similar fibres to thread worms, grubs, or other baits (earthworms, huhu grubs, spiders, etc.).

• Lower the “bob” into waterholes at night or when water is turbid; eels bite onto the fibres and are swung into shallow water.

• Called toi, or when baited specifically, mōunu or tui.

🐾 2. Rapu tuna (catch by hand)

In shallow streams, fishers feel under banks or rocks or use their feet to flush eels from cover, then grab them.

🪓 3. Patu tuna (striking)

At night, eel fishers use a thin rod or spear to hit eels in shallow water while a companion collects the catch.

🪤 4. Hīnaki (eel pots)

Traditional woven traps that let eels enter but not exit, usually baited with worms or insects.

These methods are integral to Māori culture and reflect deep knowledge of eel behaviour.

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🎣 Modern Recreational Eeling Techniques

For many Kiwis, catching eels is a classic freshwater adventure. Here’s how to do it with rods and nets:

📍 Choosing Your Spot

Focus on still or slow-flowing water with deep holes, weed beds, or snaggy areas — eels like to hide in these structures. Dawn, dusk, and night are often the best times because eels are nocturnal or crepuscular feeders.

🪝 1. Rod & Line (Ledgering)

This is the most common recreational method:

• Rod: 10–12 ft with 8 lb mainline.

• Trace: 18 – 24 inch metal or coated trace with a swivel.

• Hook: Sizes 6–10, depending on eel size.

• Bait: Fresh worms (especially), fish pieces, or other blood-rich baits attract eels.

Technique:

1. Use a ledgering rig: weight on bottom with baited hook above.

2. Cast near structure and wait — eels have keen smell but soft bites; when the line runs suddenly, strike hard.

3. When hooked, reel quickly to prevent the eel wrapping its tail around snags.

4. Have a bright torch and landing net ready.

🪢 2. Fyke Netting

Fyke nets are passive gear that catch eels as they move:

• These nets have funnel entrances that lead eels into chambers they cannot exit.

• Set them across likely eel pathways with the opening facing upstream.

• Bait can increase effectiveness. Check them regularly.

• Recreational fishers are limited to one net and regulated mesh size.

🧪 3. Pre-baiting

Placing attractive bait a few days before fishing can increase fish presence.

🌚 4. Night Fishing

Because eels are most active at night, fishing after sunset can significantly improve catch rates.

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📌 Safety & Handling Tips

• Eels are strong and slip-ery — use gloves or a landing net to safely control them.

• Keep them wet and calm if planning to release.

• Always carry a torch at night, and be aware of deep spots and slippery banks.

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🍽️ After the Catch

Eels are prized table fish — rich and oily — but if you’re fishing for food, ensure:

• You follow all local limits and fish responsibly.

• Clean and prepare them soon after catching. Traditional methods include smoking or barbecue roasting.

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🌱 Be a Responsible Angler

Eels are a taonga (treasure) species in New Zealand. To protect future generations:

• Respect bag limits and release large breeding eels.

• Never fish in prohibited areas without permission.

• Minimise disturbance to habitat — avoid trampling vegetation or stirring sediments unnecessarily.

Tags

eels fishing

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