The best fishing charters in Hastings head out from the Napier port, a short drive north of the city, into Hawke Bay waters known for snapper, tarakihi, kahawai and summer kingfish. A fishing charter in Hastings terms usually means a skippered trip on a small, well-equipped boat with the rods, tackle and bait supplied, whether you want a few hours of bottom fishing or a day chasing game fish offshore. Rampant Charters and Mr Fishing Adventures both run tailored trips for small groups, from first-timers to experienced anglers.
1Rampant Charters
Rampant Charters is a Hawke’s Bay fishing and boat charter run by skipper Graeme Bee from the Napier port on Breakwater Road. Trips run on a purpose-built 7m catamaran, with light tackle fishing a speciality and game fishing available on request. It suits small groups and families after a relaxed day of bottom fishing, as well as anglers wanting a private trip built around diving or a barbecue on the water.
Services
- Bottom fishing charters
- Light tackle fishing
- Game fishing on request
- BBQ, diving and private cruising trips
Highlights
- Operating since 2005
- Skipper Graeme Bee has more than 20 years’ experience and holds multiple fishing records
- Stable, fast 7m custom catamaran carrying up to 6 anglers
- All tackle and bait supplied
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 bespoke fishing charter and guiding business run by skipper Hamish Williams, who grew up fishing the East Coast and worked in the Hastings hinterland before taking up guiding full time. Based at the Hawke’s Bay Sports Fishing Club, he fishes Hawke’s Bay offshore grounds on the 8.5m Pinnacle “Next Level”, and also runs freshwater and fly fishing trips further afield at Lake Taupō and the Tongariro Delta. It suits anglers who want one guide for both saltwater and trout fishing.
Services
- Hawke’s Bay offshore saltwater and deep sea fishing
- Game fishing for marlin, tuna and kingfish at Waihau Bay
- Lake Taupō trout fishing and jigging
- Tongariro Delta and backcountry fly fishing, including heli-fishing
- Scenic boat tours and sunset cruises
Highlights
- 8.5m Pinnacle vessel “Next Level”, built for game fishing
- Skipper holds full skipper’s tickets and has more than 20 years’ experience
- Tailor-made trips for small groups, with rods, reels and tackle provided
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 Hastings
- Target species: decide whether you want bottom fishing for snapper and tarakihi, light tackle sport fishing, or a game fishing trip for kingfish, tuna or marlin, and check the skipper runs that style of trip.
- Boat and group size: small charter boats carry a limited number of anglers, so confirm how many people fit and whether a private charter or a shared trip suits your group.
- What is included: ask whether rods, reels, tackle and bait are supplied, and whether you need to bring food, drinks or a chilly bin for your catch.
- Skipper experience: look for a skipper with years on local waters and the right commercial tickets, as they decide where to fish and when it is safe to go.
- Weather and departure point: Hawke Bay trips are weather dependent, so check the cancellation or rescheduling policy and where the boat leaves from before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hastings Fishing Charters
Where do fishing charters leave from for Hastings visitors?
Hastings is inland, so most boat charters depart from the Napier port and inner harbour area, a short drive north via the expressway. Some skippers also travel with trailer boats to other launch points, so check the departure location when you book.
What fish can you catch on a charter in Hawke Bay?
Common catches include snapper, tarakihi, gurnard, kahawai and trevally on the inshore reefs, with kingfish more common in the warmer months. Deeper and offshore trips can target hāpuku and game fish such as tuna and marlin, depending on the season and conditions.
Do I need a fishing licence for a saltwater charter?
No licence is needed for recreational sea fishing in New Zealand, but daily bag limits and minimum sizes apply to every angler on board. The Central fishery area rules are published by Fisheries New Zealand, and freshwater trout fishing needs a Fish & Game or Taupō fishing licence.
How do I check a fishing charter operator is legitimate?
Commercial charter boats that carry paying passengers must operate within Maritime New Zealand’s Maritime Operator Safety System. The Maritime New Zealand website explains the requirements for small commercial vessels, and it is reasonable to ask the skipper about their safety plan, lifejackets and qualifications before you head out.
Is a fishing charter suitable for beginners and children?
Yes, most small charters welcome first-timers and families. The skipper chooses sheltered spots when needed, sets up the gear and shows you how to fish, so no experience is required. Let the operator know the ages of any children when booking.
How many people can go on a fishing charter?
Hawke’s Bay charter boats are generally small, typically carrying around six anglers. Larger groups may need to book two trips or split across boats, and many operators offer private charters for the whole boat.
Can I fish from shore near Hastings instead?
Yes. Beaches in the Hastings district such as Haumoana, Te Awanga, Clifton and Waimārama are popular for surfcasting. The Hastings District Council beaches pages cover access and safety for each beach.
What should I bring on a fishing charter?
Bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat, food and drinks unless catering is included, and a chilly bin with ice to take your catch home. Seasickness remedies are worth taking before you leave the wharf.