Reel Life December 2024 - Southland

Trout fishing is a great way to connect with family and friends during the holiday season.

With the holiday season finally here, we know many fishos and fishy-families will be hitting the water over the next month.

The stable river flows over the last month have made for some great early season fishing conditions and as we head into the summer period, we expect the fishing to only get better. 

For those new to fishing or families who may have struggled to get kids hooked-up, you can check out this selection of Southland specific instructional videos that are full of tips and tricks here - https://www.fishandgame.org.nz/freshwater-fishing-in-new-zealand/where-to-fish/regional-info/southland/new-to-fishing-in-southland/

Fish your feet first

There’s an old cliché in fishing: fish your feet first. This timeless piece of advice is often repeated by experienced anglers—and for good reason. It holds a lot of truth.

The phrase fish your feet first carries a dual meaning. First, it encourages anglers to explore fishing opportunities close to home rather than traveling far and wide as there are often great fisheries located only a short drive away. Second, it reminds anglers not to overlook the water right at their feet when they’re at their fishing spot. Trout are frequently found near the shoreline, where they utilise undercut banks, weed beds, overhanging willows and other structures for shelter and feeding.

Local Invercargill angler Shandley recently proved this adage true on a trip to the lower Makarewa River—a productive and handy trout fishery just a 10–15minute drive from Invercargill. Using a paddle-tail soft bait, he methodically worked his way along the riverbank, casting along the edges of the bank, close to where he stood. His effort paid off, when a nice brown trout of about three pounds shot out from cover to grab his soft bait.

Next time you’re planning a trout fishing trip, remember to fish your feet first. Consider local spots close to home and, when you’re at the water’s edge, don’t forget to target the bank edges. You might be surprised by what finds your lure or fly.

Invercargill resident, Shandley, enjoying success close to home on the Makarewa River.

Terrestrial Action Heating Up

Trout fishing action is heating up around Southland. Credit: Chris Dore.

With the recent warmer temperatures, terrestrial insect activity is picking up and so too is the dry fly fishing. We've heard great reports of brown beetles stirring up fantastic fishing opportunities. Cicadas have also started chirping, and trout are beginning to sip up willow grubs on the upper and mid-Mataura. Top summer dry flies to have in your tackle box include the humpy blue blow fly, Royal Wulff, coch-y-bonddu and some realistic cicada imitations.

Fishing the lake edges

Paige Grieve playing a fish in the shallows of Lake Te Anau.

The edges of Southland’s lakes can offer some exciting trout fishing opportunities and should not be overlooked this summer. These shallow edges with their “drop-offs” are hotspots for trout, as they patrol these areas in search of food.

For fly anglers, patience and a careful approach are key. Slowly walk along the lake edge, scanning for movement in the water. Polarised sunglasses are essential, as they reduce glare and make it easier to spot trout on a feeding beat. Once you locate a trout, take your time to observe its movements and plan your cast. Presenting the fly in its path will maximise your chances of a successful hook-up.

Spin and soft bait anglers can target these same sighted trout. Cast a lightly weighted lure or soft bait well ahead of a sighted trout and retrieve it into its feeding beat. Alternatively, sink your lure near drop-offs or run it along the edge of weed beds—trout often use these features in search of food.

Lake edge fishing is also perfect for families and beginners. The terrain is easy to navigate, with few snags or obstructions, making for a stress-free experience. Bait fishing with worms is a simple and effective approach—just cast your line, relax with a picnic, and let the trout come to you.

Southland Women’s Fly Fishing Sessions

Join Southland Fish and Game NZ and the NZ Fly Fishing Academy for an empowering and enjoyable Women’s Fly Fishing Session!

Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to refine your skills, Dr. Rachel McNae and Kristina Placko will guide you through the art of fly fishing in a fun, supportive environment.

• Choose your day: Saturday 22nd Feb OR Sunday 23rd Feb 23, 2025
• Venue: A Private Purpose-Built Fly Fishing Property - West Dome - in the heart of Southland’s Trout Mecca, Lumsden

With expert tuition, local catering, barista-made coffee, and an afternoon on the Oreti River, everything is included—just bring yourself! Learn, laugh, and connect with local women who share your interest in fly fishing, creating new friendships and finding future fishing buddies.

Select image for larger view.

A little about Rachel…

Rachel McNae is a passionate leader in New Zealand’s fly fishing world and the founder of the NZ Fly Fishing Academy. Rachel creates welcoming spaces for anglers to learn, connect, and grow their skills, no matter their skill level. As Captain of the NZ Fly Ferns and leader of Casting for Recovery North Island, Rachel combines her life’s work in academia with her love of the outdoors, teaching and empowering women through fly fishing. Whether it’s writing the Academy’s curriculum, mentoring anglers, or just sharing a laugh on the water, Rachel’s enthusiasm, experience, and approachable style make her the perfect guide to this enticing sport.

A little about Kristina…

Kristina is an experienced fly fishing guide and educator who brings Southland’s rivers to life. Founder of Stray South Fishing Outfitters NZ, Kristina specialises in personalised tuition and innovative teaching methods creating conscious and effective anglers. With over 15-years in the fishing industry, Kristina’s passion for teaching shines through her workshops and guiding adventures, empowering women and newcomers to the sport. A champion for diversity, she draws on her experiences from male-dominated industries to inspire confidence and growth in others. Kristina’s enthusiasm and commitment make every fly fishing experience both fun and transformative for her clients.

The online registration process is still being finalised at the time of this publication.

To pre-register your interest, please email Southland Field Officer, Ben Febery at [email protected]  

This could just about be the perfect Christmas present!

https://www.nzflyfishingacademy.co.nz/

Questions to Kristina Placko 027 4750 008

Something for the boat anglers - Lake Monowai Jetty and Boat Ramp

Public infrastructure isn’t normally within our remit; however, we’ve heard the complaints and frustrations of Lake Monowai anglers and have taken the initiative.

This summer we intend to restore the boat ramp and build a jetty there.

Between a hefty contribution from Southland Fish and Game on behalf of anglers, and some external funding, we are 90% there.

We are asking lake users to consider making a one-off donation towards the project to ensure there is safe and practical public access to this beautiful part of Fiordland.

For more details and to consider make a donation, see here. Insert hyperlink - https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/lake-monowai-jetty-construction-and-boat-ramp  

We have all the necessary designs, consents and a Right to Occupy Agreement with Pioneer Energy. Southland Fish and Game take on ownership and responsibility for the structure, guaranteeing enduring public access.

 

We wish you all the very best for the holiday season.

May your sought-after piece of fishing equipment be wrapped up under the tree.

 

If you have any photos or fishy stories that you think other anglers might like to see or read in next month’s Reel Life, then email them to [email protected] 

All the best for your upcoming fishing trips,

From the team at Southland Fish and Game