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Boating on Rotorua Lakes

All major lakes have excellent boat ramps but some of the smaller lakes are suitable for smaller boats only

Trolling

The Rotorua Lakes are a paradise for the trolling angler and provide a wide variety of excellent trolling water ranging from the quiet secluded reed fringed shallow banks of Rotoehu to the mysterious depths of beautiful bush fringed Okataina where the huge trophy trout lurk.

The troller can always find somewhere to enjoy his sport, what ever wind and weather conditions prevail.

Boating anglers should be aware of Boating Regulations covering our lakes and observe commonsense safety rules.

Conditions become crowded at times and boaties should at all times respect the rights of all other lake users, including skiers.

Boat fishing regulations

  1. Trolling is permitted on all lakes 200m outside those areas restricted to "fly fishing only" marked by posts with black and yellow stripes. This covers all major stream mouths.
  2. Lead and wire lines are legal on all Rotorua Lakes.
  3. Down Riggers are not permitted in the Eastern Region
  4. No added weights, other than the lures, may be attached to trolling lines.
  5. Only single hooks are legal but a combination of two flies/lures may be used.
  6. Rod holders may be used while the boat is in motion but the number of rods in use can not exceed the number of licenced anglers on the boat.

Safety in boats

Often the angler's boat is very small and powered by a tiny motor. Rotorua's lakes are exposed to gusty winds and nasty, choppy seas and can be very quickly whipped up. Lives have been lost over the years.

Local boating regulations

  1. Never exceed 5 knots within 200m of the shore or in fly fishing areas unless operating in an access lane.
  2. Never exceed 5 knots within 200m of another boat.
  3. Never drive craft off or on trailers at a launching ramp.
  4. Don't obstruct boat ramps - park your car and trailer well clear.
  5. All vessels require lights when operating at night, and must be seen. Unpowered boats a torch will do. Under 12ft powered boat - an all round, visible white light Over 12ft powered boat - red port, green starboard, white stern and masthead lights
  6. Boats may not be moored at public jetties for more than 10 minutes.

Common sense

  1. Do not overload your craft.
  2. Listen to the weather forecasts - particularly wind speeds and direction. Consider the size of your craft and distances over open water. Remember 20 knot winds produce 1m waves.
  3. In case your motor fails, carry a set of oars or an auxiliary motor.
  4. Carry essential equipment: life jackets for all, a bailer, fire extinguisher, a spare rowlock, an adequate anchor and rope, a light, and spare warm clothing.
  5. Let someone know where you are going and your estimated time of return.
  6. Go easy on alcohol.
  7. Don't try to fish in busy ski lanes.
  8. Name or identify your boat in some way as small boats can easily go missing or be stolen.
  9. First Aid Kit
  10. Don't forget to put the bung in!