Marlborough Sounds fishing rules

Blue cod size and daily limit

The minimum legal size is 33 cm and the daily limit is 2 blue cod per fisher, combined across the Marlborough Sounds and Challenger East. Measure each fish before deciding to keep it and return undersized fish immediately.

• Daily limit: 2 per fisher across the combined area
• Minimum legal size: 33 cm
• Land whole or gutted unless eaten immediately aboard

Closed season

No blue cod may be taken from the Marlborough Sounds from 1 September through 10 January inclusive. Fisheries New Zealand extended the former closure in 2025.

Maud Island closed area

The marked closed area around Maud Island is no-take year-round. Check the current Fisheries New Zealand map before fishing nearby.

Snapper

The Marlborough Sounds daily snapper limit is lower than the wider Challenger area.

• Minimum length: 25 cm
• Daily limit: 3 per fisher
• The combined finfish limit also applies

Always verify

Emergency closures, rāhui and local controls may change what can be taken. Open the official source immediately before your trip.