Motunau Beach – A Guide to Fishing & Angler Etiquette

Motunau Beach, located on the North Canterbury coast, is one of New Zealand’s best-known recreational fishing spots. From surfcasting on the beach to launching small boats in search of blue cod, groper, and crayfish, the area attracts anglers from all over the South Island. With its popularity, however, comes responsibility — both to protect the fishery and to ensure everyone enjoys their time on the water.

Fishing at Motunau Beach

• Boat Fishing
  Motunau is a prime launching spot for small trailer boats. The sheltered launch ramp gives access to reefs and deep water where blue cod, sea perch, groper, tarakihi, and even kingfish can be caught. Crayfish pots are also commonly set just offshore.
  • Tip: Always check swell and tide conditions before launching. Motunau can change quickly, and conditions outside the bay may be rougher than expected.
• Shore & Surfcasting
  Surfcasters often target rig (spotted smooth-hound), elephant fish, and red cod from the beach, especially in summer and autumn when these species are more active.
  • Tip: Fresh bait such as crab or shellfish will greatly improve your chances of hooking rig.
• Diving & Spearfishing
  The coastline is popular with divers for crayfish, paua, and spearfishing. Be mindful of local regulations and safe diving practices.

Regulations to Remember

• Daily Catch Limits: Blue cod (6 per person in this area, minimum size 33cm), crayfish (6 per person, size and sex restrictions apply). Always double-check MPI’s latest rules before heading out.
• Crayfish Restrictions: During certain times, special restrictions may apply, so make sure your pots and catches are compliant.
• Protected Areas: Know where marine reserves and restricted zones are — fishing in these areas is illegal.

Angler Etiquette at Motunau

Because Motunau is so popular, respecting other anglers makes a big difference. Here are some key points:

1. Boat Ramp Courtesy
   • Be prepared before you back down the ramp. Load gear, untie straps, and fit bungs in the staging area, not on the ramp.
   • Launch quickly and clear the ramp for the next boat.
2. Sharing the Water
   • Avoid anchoring too close to another boat, especially on reefs or popular fishing spots.
   • Keep cray pots well marked and avoid setting them in navigation channels.
3. Respect Bag Limits
   • Only take what you need, not just what you’re allowed. Overfishing impacts everyone.
4. Waste & Rubbish
   • Take all rubbish home with you — bait bags, fishing line, bottles, and scraps don’t belong in the ocean or left on the beach.
5. Diver Safety
   • Keep a sharp lookout for dive flags. Never drive close to a vessel displaying a dive flag, and give divers plenty of space.
6. Community Spirit
   • Be friendly and helpful. At busy times, patience and cooperation go a long way.

Final Thoughts

Motunau Beach is a gem for Canterbury anglers. By following the rules and showing respect for others, we can all enjoy safe, productive fishing trips and help ensure that Motunau remains a special spot for future generations.