Reel Life December 2023

Trout adapt to changing conditions - so to do us anglers! 

Late November and early December saw an unsettled four weeks with small windows of “good” fishing conditions.

Those who made the most of midweek windows ventured further west or tried a new style of fishing have had good success.

The lead-up to the New Year period looks more settled as all the river levels are dropping and water temperatures are rising.

The trout will start feeding on terrestrials like cicadas, blow flies and willow grubs.

Fish condition will also increase after a lean year. 

River Update: 

The Tuki Tuki System continues to fish well when clear – with good numbers of fit two-three pound fish being caught. 

Soft baiting and spinning fishing have seen great success in marginal fishing conditions.

Over the next few months fishing the riffles will be productive as the water temp rises. 

The Mohaka Mid and Upper sections are fishing extremely well as the flow lowers and water temp increases – reports of good numbers of active brown and rainbow trout.

Over the next month fishing the edges of “hard” to get places will be productive. 

The Ngaroroa Upper sections continue to fish well with reports of good numbers of fit rainbows.

Those who are willing to access the upper sections will be rewarded. 

We continue to hear reports of trout appearing in many of the Northern catchments so here’s hoping for a favourable summer.

2023 Fishing Surveys

Please help us gather information and complete the below form on your fishing sessions.

https://forms.office.com/r/8Z52YQv1nj 

Keep an eye on “Hawkes Bay Fish and Game” facebook page for further updates.

Tight Lines from the team at Hawkes Bay Fish & Game