1. Where There’s Water, There’s Fish

One of the simplest truths in fishing is that if you have bait in the water, you're already in the game. New Zealand's waters are home to a variety of fish species, including the ever-abundant kahawai and the highly prized snapper. Even if you're fishing from a spot that doesn’t look like a traditional “hotspot,” there’s a good chance fish are present if you’re patient and persistent.

Many anglers mistakenly drive past local spots in search of more popular or remote locations, believing that a better catch awaits farther afield. However, you might be surprised by the productivity of a quiet beach, rocky shoreline, or estuary close to home. Fish are opportunistic feeders and can be found in unexpected places, especially during certain tides or times of the day.

The key is to keep an open mind and be willing to experiment. Sometimes, the less obvious spots—those you may have overlooked before—can turn out to be hidden gems. The more you fish a variety of locations, the better you’ll become at identifying patterns and productive areas.

2. Low Tide Scouting: Plan Before You Cast

When you’re unfamiliar with a fishing spot, one of the best things you can do is visit it during low tide. Low tide reveals a wealth of information about the underwater terrain that is usually hidden. Features like holes, gutters, reefs, and shell beds often attract fish, providing them with shelter and feeding opportunities. These same features are prime spots for you to cast your line when the tide comes in.

Pay attention to areas where you see exposed shellfish, worm trails, or distinctive "snapper holes," which are small craters dug by feeding fish. These are clear indicators of feeding activity and valuable clues to where fish are likely to congregate during high tide.

Low tide scouting isn’t just about finding fish; it’s also about safety. Assessing the terrain in advance helps you identify potential hazards, such as slippery rocks, deep mud, or rapidly rising tides. Knowing how to safely access and exit a spot can save you from risky situations and make your fishing trip more enjoyable.

3. Take Advantage of the Change of Light

Timing can significantly impact your fishing success, and the best times to fish are often during the "change of light" periods at dawn and dusk. During these times, fish are more active and more likely to venture closer to shore to feed. Morning sessions often see fish moving in after a night of feeding, while evening trips coincide with fish preparing to feed before darkness falls.

Fishing during these golden hours not only increases your chances of catching something but also enhances the overall experience. Watching the sun rise or set while you fish is a peaceful and rewarding way to spend your time outdoors.

That said, don’t completely disregard fishing during the middle of the day. While it can be less productive, particularly under bright and clear conditions, overcast skies or high tidal movements can make midday fishing worthwhile. The key is to be adaptable and observant of the conditions around you.

4. Keep It Simple When You’re Starting Out

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer variety of fishing gear and techniques available, but when you’re starting out, simplicity is your best friend. A basic surfcasting setup is all you need to get going. Here’s what a beginner’s kit might include:

• A surf rod between 10 and 14 feet in length
• A surf specific or Free Swimmer style reel
• Or a ready to go surf combo
• A sturdy sand spike to hold your rod
• A headlamp for early morning or evening sessions
• Pre-made flasher rigs for easy rigging
• A selection of baits such as pilchards, squid, or mussels

Focus your first few trips on the basics: learning to cast effectively, tying secure knots, and presenting your bait attractively. These foundational skills will set you up for success in the long run. Don’t worry too much about landing a fish right away; instead, treat each outing as a chance to refine your technique and build your confidence.

Fishing is as much about the process as it is about the result. Enjoy the learning curve, and before long, you'll be catching fish with greater consistency.

5. Invest to Test: Start Small and Build

One of the great things about surfcasting is that it can be as budget-friendly or as gear-intensive as you want it to be. Starting small with affordable equipment allows you to test the waters—literally and figuratively—without a major financial commitment.

Begin with a basic setup that fits your budget, and take the time to get familiar with how it works. Once you’ve gained some experience and have a better sense of what you enjoy and need, you can upgrade your gear to suit your evolving preferences. For example, you might invest in a longer rod for greater casting distance or switch to braided line for improved sensitivity.

The most important thing is to start. You don’t need the fanciest gear or years of expertise to catch fish. All you need is a line in the water, a willingness to learn, and the patience to keep trying. Once you experience the thrill of landing your first fish, you’ll likely find yourself hooked on the sport.