The South Taranaki Bight is a large, open coastal bay on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island, forming a significant marine environment within the Manawatū-Whanganui and Taranaki regions. This bight is characterized by its exposure to the Tasman Sea and supports a rich and diverse marine ecosystem. The coastal waters here are a vital area for both recreational and commercial fishing, with the marine environment influenced by the outflow of major rivers like the Manawatū. The seabed and water column host a variety of habitats that sustain numerous fish species, making it a notable destination for inshore and nearshore angling.