Anglers big day out

Trout anglers’ big day arrives with the start of the new fishing season

Thousands of anglers around the country are hoping to hook a fish for dinner today (Oct 1) as the new trout fishing season opens.

Above Right: Kevin Jefferies from Waimate on the Lower Waitaki River.

The freshwater fishing season traditionally begins on October 1 and for keen anglers around the country, it is a day not to be missed.

Fish and Game’s Communications Manager Don Rood says enthusiasts have been looking forward to the opening for months.

“Over winter, many rivers and streams have been closed to allow trout to breed undisturbed and then recover from their spawning,” Don Rood says.

“Now the big day has arrived and they can get out onto their favourite waterways to pit their skills against the brown and rainbow trout which live there.

“Thousands of anglers will be making the most of the opportunity and getting out onto the water this morning with friends and family.”

Don Rood says licence sales have been brisk and reports from the 12 Fish & Game regions around the country indicate a good day’s fishing could be waiting.

“It’s looking good out on the water, with our regional staff reporting healthy numbers of fish.”

Today also marks the start of the school holidays and Fish & Game says the combination is perfect for a great family outdoors activity over the coming weeks.

“Fishing is something the whole family can enjoy, so today is your chance to get the children into the outdoors and introduce them to the joys of fishing,” Don Rood says.

“There are special family licences available which allows parents and their children, or grandparents and their grandchildren, to get out together and harvest wild food for the dinner table.”

Licences are available at sporting stores or online through the Fish & Game website: www.fishandgame.org.nz