Freshwater Lures
Freshwater lures for trout and salmon in New Zealand's rivers, lakes and canals, from minnows and spinners to spoons and soft plastics. Our range is led by Rapala and Daiwa, alongside Shimano.
Cast them on a light spin outfit and retrieve them across the current or along the drop-off, where trout and salmon wait to ambush prey. Pair them with a light spin rod or trout and canal combo, and fine fluorocarbon leader.
Get local tips from the team at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about freshwater lures
What are the best lures for trout in New Zealand?
Bladed spinners, small spoons and minnow-style hard lures are the classic trout lures, along with small soft baits. In rivers, cast across and slightly upstream and let the current swing the lure through likely water. In lakes, fish along drop-offs, stream mouths and weed edges. Carry a few styles, sizes and colours, as trout can change their preferences with light and water clarity.
What colour lures work best for trout?
Natural colours such as brown trout, rainbow and silver patterns work well in clear water and bright conditions. Gold and copper spinners are reliable in tannin-stained or discoloured water, while black and dark colours work well in low light. Bright fluorescent colours can trigger reaction strikes in murky water. Changing colour when the bites slow down is often worth trying.
What are minnow lures and how do I fish them?
Minnow lures are hard-bodied lures shaped like small fish, with a bib or lip that makes them wobble and dive when retrieved. Floating minnows dive when wound and float up when paused, sinking minnows can be fished deeper, and suspending minnows hang at depth on the pause. Retrieve them steadily or with twitches and pauses to imitate a struggling baitfish.
Spinner, spoon or minnow - which should I use?
Spinners have a rotating blade that flashes and vibrates, which works well in rivers and for aggressive fish. Spoons wobble and flash, casting a long way, which suits lakes and big rivers. Minnows imitate baitfish closely and work well for bigger, more selective trout. Each shines in different conditions, so a small selection of all three covers most freshwater fishing.
What lures work for sea-run salmon?
Heavy spoons and metal lures, such as the Daiwa Chinook S, are popular for casting to sea-run salmon at Canterbury river mouths and in the lower rivers during the salmon season. They cast a long way into surf and current and have a strong, fluttering action. Salmon can be fussy, so carry a few weights and colours. Check the salmon season dates and regulations before fishing.
Are there rules about lures in freshwater?
Yes, freshwater fishing rules vary between regions and waters. Some waters are fly-fishing only, some restrict hook types or the number of hooks, and seasons and bag limits differ. You also need a Fish and Game licence to fish for trout and salmon. Always check the regulations for the water you plan to fish, and follow the Check, Clean, Dry rules to stop the spread of didymo and other pests.