Anatoki Salmon – Catch, Cook & Eat Your Own Salmon in Golden Bay, New Zealand

Looking for the best fishing experience in Golden Bay? Want to catch, cook & eat your own salmon fresh?
Welcome to Anatoki Salmon, one of the top-rated family attractions in Tākaka, located in the heart of Golden Bay, New Zealand. Whether you’re a food lover, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking unique things to do in the South Island, Anatoki Salmon offers an unforgettable hands-on adventure.

Where Is Anatoki Salmon?

Anatoki Salmon is located at 230 McCallum Road, Tākaka, just 5 minutes from the town centre of Takaka and around:

  • 🚗 30 mins from Collingwood
  • 🚗 2.5 hours from Nelson
  • 📌 Golden Bay, South Island, New Zealand

Directions: Follow the scenic route to Tākaka, then take the clearly signposted turn-off onto McCallum Road. The last few kilometers are gravel but well maintained.

✅ Free parking available
✅ Overnight parking for self-contained campervans

What Is Anatoki Salmon?

Anatoki Salmon is a freshwater salmon farm and visitor attraction where you can:

  • 🎣 Catch your own Chinook (King) salmon
  • 🍽️ Have it prepared on-site as sashimi or hot-smoked
  • 🧺 Take it home fresh or vacuum-packed

This unique destination blends eco-tourism, sustainable aquaculture, and authentic Kiwi experiences. It’s a favorite among travelers exploring Golden Bay and looking for interactive activities in New Zealand’s South Island.

What Can You Do at Anatoki Salmon?

1. Go Fishing for Salmon – No Experience Needed!

Anyone can fish here – no license required. Just show up!

  • 🎣 Fishing rods and bait are provided free
  • 🐠 Catch a salmon from their man-made freshwater lake
  • 💵 Pay only for what you catch (approx. NZD $37–$38 per kg)
  • 🧼 Staff will clean, fillet, and prepare your fish for free

Great for families, couples, backpackers, and foodies.

2. Choose How You Want It Cooked

Once you’ve caught your salmon, choose from:

  • 🔥 Hot-Smoked Salmon – smoked with herbs and spices
  • 🍣 Sashimi-Style – fresh raw slices, soy sauce & wasabi included
  • 🧊 Vacuum-Packed to Take Home – keep it fresh longer for travel

💡 Pro Tip: Many visitors opt to enjoy part of their fish as sashimi on-site, and have the rest smoked or packaged to go.

3. Relax at the Salmon Café

Not keen on fishing? You can still enjoy the Anatoki Salmon Café, which features:

  • 🍽️ Salmon platters (smoked + sashimi)
  • 🥗 Fresh salads, sandwiches, and hot chips
  • ☕ Locally roasted coffee and drinks
  • 🍰 Homemade cakes and treats

Eat outdoors beside the lake, surrounded by tranquil native bush and scenic mountain views.

Sustainability at Anatoki Salmon

Anatoki Salmon is proud to run a sustainable, low-impact salmon farm. Here’s how:

  • ✅ No antibiotics, no hormones, no GMO feed
  • 💧 Uses fresh, clean river water from the Anatoki River
  • ♻️ Fish waste is composted and used by local gardeners
  • 🌿 Carbon-light operation with a strong local focus

It’s one of the few eco-conscious salmon farms in New Zealand that also welcomes tourists.

Opening Hours & Entry Info

  • 📅 Open Daily
  • 🕘 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
  • 🎟️ No entry fee – just pay for the fish you catch

🎣 Fishing is available all day. Last catch usually around 4 PM.

Perfect for All Ages

Looking for fun things to do in Golden Bay with kids?
Anatoki Salmon is ideal for:

  • ✅ Families with children
  • ✅ Couples on a South Island road trip
  • ✅ Food lovers and salmon enthusiasts
  • ✅ International tourists and backpackers
  • ✅ Campervan travellers (self-contained vans can stay overnight)

What Visitors Say

🗨️ “One of the best experiences in New Zealand! We caught a salmon, had it made into sashimi on the spot — so fresh and delicious.”
– TripAdvisor Review

🗨️ “Fun, educational, relaxing and rewarding. Highly recommend for families!”
– Google Review

With hundreds of 5-star reviews, it’s no surprise Anatoki Salmon is considered one of the top attractions in Golden Bay.

Visitor Tips

  • 🧊 Bring a cooler or chilly bin if taking salmon with you
  • ☀️ Pack sunblock and bug spray
  • 👟 Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be outdoors
  • 📷 Bring your camera – the setting is stunning!
  • 🛒 You can buy extra salmon or smoked fillets to go

Final Thoughts: Why Visit Anatoki Salmon?

Anatoki Salmon is more than just a salmon farm — it’s a must-do New Zealand experience.
It combines local food, outdoor adventure, and sustainability in a fun, affordable, family-friendly setting.

Whether you’re on a road trip through the South Island or staying locally in Golden Bay, don’t miss your chance to catch, cook, and eat the freshest salmon in New Zealand.

Want to learn more or plan your visit?
Visit their official website: www.anatokisalmon.co.nz or Anatoki Facebook Page

For accommodation, click here.