Trout & Canal Combos
Trout and canal rod and reel combos for spin fishing New Zealand's rivers, lakes and South Island hydro canals. Our range features Daiwa and Okuma, including long canal combos and four-piece travel outfits.
These combos pair a light, smooth spin reel with a longer, sensitive rod that casts small lures and baits and handles big trout and salmon. Fill your box with freshwater lures and light fluorocarbon leader, or build your own outfit from our light spin rods.
Order online for tracked delivery across New Zealand, or talk trout setups with the team at our Grey Lynn concept store.
Frequently asked questions about trout and canal combos
What is in a trout and canal combo?
A trout and canal combo pairs a light 2500 to 3000 size spin reel with a light spin rod, usually 7 to 9 feet long and rated for light line. Longer rods suit the canals and big rivers, while shorter ones suit smaller streams. Some combos are four-piece travel outfits, which are handy for flying to the South Island or packing into the backcountry.
Where are the canals for trout and salmon fishing?
The best-known canals are the hydro canals of the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island, around Twizel and Tekapo, linking the region's lakes and power stations. They are famous for very large trout and salmon, which feed on food from the salmon farms along the canals. Access, rules and seasons vary, so check the local Fish and Game regulations before fishing them.
What lures and baits work in the canals?
Small soft baits, spinners, spoons and minnow-style lures are popular in the canals, along with baits where they are allowed. Natural colours often work in clear water, with brighter options in low light. Fish close to structure and along the edges where trout patrol. Light fluorocarbon leader is important, as canal fish can be wary in the clear water.
When is the best time of year to fish the canals?
The canals fish well through much of the year, with many anglers targeting the cooler months when big trout are active and the summer crowds have gone. Early mornings, evenings and overcast days can be especially productive. Weather in the Mackenzie Basin can be extreme, so bring warm, windproof clothing and plan around the conditions. Dress in layers and check the forecast.
Can I use a trout combo for lake trolling or harling?
A light spin combo can be used for harling, slowly trolling small lures behind a boat on lakes like Rotorua and Taupo, especially with lead-core or light line. Dedicated trolling outfits handle downriggers and heavier setups better. For casting from the shore and fishing river mouths, a trout and canal combo is ideal. Always check the lake's specific rules on trolling and methods.
Are four-piece travel combos good for trout fishing trips?
Yes, four-piece travel combos pack down short enough for a suitcase or backpack, which makes them ideal for flying to fishing destinations or tramping into backcountry rivers and lakes. Modern travel rods fish almost as well as two-piece rods. Keep the rod in its tube between sessions, and carry your licence and a small box of lures, and you are ready wherever you go.