Last updated July 2026
Port Underwood is a small sheltered harbour on the east coast of the Marlborough Sounds, east of Picton and reached by road from Rārangi. It offers quieter fishing than the busier Queen Charlotte or Pelorus Sounds, with kahawai as the most reliable target species, flounder in shallower inshore areas, and occasional blue cod despite the predominantly sandy bottom limiting their numbers. The harbour is well protected from Cook Strait conditions, making it suitable for smaller boats on calmer days. MPI Challenger area recreational fishing rules apply throughout.
Practical Information
| Location | Port Underwood, sheltered harbour east of Picton, Marlborough Sounds, accessed via Port Underwood Road from Rārangi |
| Distance from Blenheim | Approximately 45 minutes drive via Tuamarina and Rārangi |
| Primary species | Kahawai (most reliable, especially summer) |
| Other species | Flounder in shallower inshore areas; occasional blue cod (numbers limited by sandy bottom habitat) |
| Blue cod rules (Challenger East) | 33 cm minimum size, 2 per person per day, closed season 1 September to 10 January; must be landed whole or gutted |
| Best season | Late spring to early autumn for increased fish activity |
| Boat access | Limited; main ramp at Oyster Bay, beach launch at Tom Canes Bay; many launch from Picton |
| Marine fishing rules | MPI Challenger area rules apply |
About Port Underwood Fishing
Port Underwood forms the north-east extension of Te Koko-o-Kupe / Cloudy Bay and is the southernmost part of the Marlborough Sounds. Its narrow entrance and surrounding hills provide excellent shelter, keeping waters calm even when conditions outside are rough. The narrow, winding Port Underwood Road limits visitor numbers and preserves the quiet character of the area.
The harbour measures roughly 7 km long and 4 km wide. Much of the seabed is sandy rather than rocky reef, which reduces habitat for species such as blue cod while suiting flounder and allowing kahawai schools to move freely in pursuit of baitfish.
Anglers value the protected waters for trailer-boat and small-craft fishing, with opportunities for both boat-based and shore-based angling from beaches and rocks. The combination of shelter and relatively low fishing pressure makes it a relaxed alternative to more popular Sounds locations.
Target Species and Techniques
Kahawai are the standout species, often forming schools that chase bait into the inner harbour during summer. Surface activity and diving birds help locate them; shiny metal lures and jigs are effective.
Flounder frequent the shallower inshore zones. Soft plastics retrieved slowly or live shrimp work well in these areas.
Blue cod occur in lower numbers than in rockier Sounds locations. Anglers seeking higher success rates for this species typically move to Queen Charlotte Sound or further afield.
Regulations and Access
Recreational fishing in Port Underwood falls under MPI Challenger East rules. Blue cod must measure at least 33 cm, with a daily limit of two fish per person. The area is closed to blue cod fishing from 1 September to 10 January each year. All retained blue cod must be landed whole or gutted. Scallop fishing remains closed until further notice.
Boat launching options are limited. The main facility is the ramp at Oyster Bay, which has a wharf and fuel. Smaller craft can use the sheltered beach launch at Tom Canes Bay near the harbour entrance. Many visitors launch in Picton and cruise in, or use visiting cruisers. The road beyond Oyster Bay becomes narrow gravel and is unsuitable for regular trailer-boat use.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers appreciate the calm, sheltered waters that allow fishing even when Cook Strait is rough, and note that kahawai schools provide reliable action with visible surface signs in summer.
Visitors describe the harbour as a peaceful, low-pressure destination compared with busier Sounds locations, with good options for both boat and shore fishing from beaches and rocks.
Where to Learn More
MPI Challenger Area Fishing Rules: Current recreational fishing regulations, size and bag limits, and seasonal closures for the area including Port Underwood.
Wikipedia – Port Underwood: Overview of the harbour’s geography, location and physical characteristics.
Marlborough District Council: Local information on roads, access and regional facilities around Port Underwood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Port Underwood?
A sheltered harbour on the east coast of the Marlborough Sounds, east of Picton, reached by Port Underwood Road from Rārangi (about 45 minutes from Blenheim).
What fish can you catch at Port Underwood?
Kahawai are the most reliable species, especially in summer; flounder are found in shallower inshore areas; blue cod occur occasionally but in lower numbers due to the sandy bottom.
Why are blue cod numbers low in Port Underwood?
Much of the harbour has a sandy seabed rather than the rocky reef habitat preferred by blue cod; better success is usually found in Queen Charlotte Sound or further afield.
What are the current blue cod rules?
33 cm minimum size, daily limit of 2 per person, closed season from 1 September to 10 January; fish must be landed whole or gutted. Always confirm the latest MPI Challenger East rules before fishing.
When is the best time to fish Port Underwood?
Late spring through early autumn offers warmer water and increased fish activity, particularly for kahawai schools.
Where can boats be launched?
The main ramp is at Oyster Bay; a sheltered beach launch is available at Tom Canes Bay. Many anglers launch in Picton instead.
Are there any additional closures?
Scallop fishing is closed in Port Underwood and the wider Marlborough Sounds until further notice.
Is the road suitable for all vehicles?
Port Underwood Road is narrow and winding; sections beyond Oyster Bay are gravel and best suited to smaller vehicles or those comfortable with slow travel.
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