....... to the February 2008 edition of Reel Life.

The weather continues to play a big role in fishing around the country. Last week we had drought. Now we have floods. Do you think our climate is changing?

The State of the Environment Report has provoked much comment around the country. Fish & Game Chief Executive Bryce Johnson believes the report means we need to see some action, and we also look at the “missing” Chapter 13. Water quality is an issue of paramount importance for everyone. Let us know your thoughts on the State of the Environment Report at reellife@inbox.net.nz

Otago University have begun data collection for a national survey of river-based recreation in NZ and would greatly appreciate your help.The survey is aimed at all water-based recreational use of NZ rivers and they need a representative sample of users across a range of activities and locations to participate. You can participate in the survey at: www.riversurvey.otago.ac.nz

Around the regions: Things were looking pretty good in Northland, until this weekend’s rain, that is, which will have removed  the gin clear conditions. Northland is running a “Becoming an Outdoors Woman” course in early March.

In Auckland / Waikato, dry conditions have enabled staff to drift dive some rivers for the first time in a while, with some very pleasing results.

Some anglers in the Rotorua area of the Eastern region are calling this the best season ever! They also report back on liberations into Lake Tarawera, enhancement of the Ngongotaha stream and drift diving the Rangitaiki.

Abundant insect life has made for some great dry fly fishing in Hawke's Bay, with the Mohaka the standout river. Regional staff have been busy drift diving the upper Mohaka reaches, as well as continuing the Lake Tutira clean-up.

Some Taranaki rivers have reached their 20 year flow lows as the dry weather continues to bite. Fish sitting in large pools and very clear conditions have meant some great fishing conditions for anglers throughout the region. This weekend’s rain will have been welcome.

In Wellington water flows have been...yes, you guessed it, low, but this has not stopped some “fantastic” fishing conditions, notably on the Manawatu and Rangitikei rivers.

Heading into the South Island, in Nelson Marlborough, fish numbers in general, and salmon in the lower Clarence in particular, have been very pleasing. Of note is the apparent decline in Didymo, especially in the Motueka and Clarence rivers.

North Canterbury provide a very comprehensive round-up of what has been happening in the region, including the latest  Central Plains Water Trust update.

Out on the West Coast, all the reports are of happy anglers! They also have an update on resource consents relating to the Arnold and Mokihinui rivers.

Graham Hughes of Central South Island report back on a busy time for F&G staff – fish salvage from drying –up waters, has been a slow and time consuming process, and the rain is very welcome. He also notes two cases of Didymo apparently dying. Hamish Stevens tells us Salmon are still arriving in good numbers along the coast.

Otago highlight their concerns about declining water quality and call for prompt action to protect waterways throughout the region.

Southland have been producing weekly rivers reports and fishing news updates throughout the month which can all be read here.

Hugh Creasy illustrates the delights of autumn in At the end are the Rainbows, whilst The Idle Thoughts of an Idle Editor reflects on the sorry tale of The Longest Drive.

Once again, if you would like to comment on the State of the Environment Report, email us at: reellife@inbox.net.nz

Good fishing

Jerry

Jerry Flay, Editor, Reel Life
reellife@inbox.net.nz