Reel Life December 2023

Taranaki ringplain

All streams and rivers are trending down towards their summer low flows and while there is some rain forecast for Christmas, it’s unlikely to have much effect on river levels. 

With the settled flows, algal growth is becoming an issue in the middle and lower reaches of some streams.

Fishing in the upper reaches of these waters above 250m altitude will be worthwhile as trout will be able to be spotted on their feeding lies.

Further downstream drifting a dry fly with a lightly weighted nymph as a dropper down foam lines entering pools should be productive.

Also, look for brown trout cruising a beat in the pools and slower runs as flows decrease.

These fish will often take a strategically placed dry fly. 

Green beetles are still on the wing and the sounds of cicadas are increasing in intensity, which bodes well for the flyfisher.

Spin and soft bait fishing will also take fish, especially when waters are a little discoloured after rain. 

The Waingongoro River really comes into its own as flows decrease and wading becomes easier and it will be a good river to visit over the summer break. 

Above right: Summer angling in the Waingongoro River on the south Taranaki ringplain

Waimarino/ Ruapehu

As for the ringplain, streams and rivers are now at low flow with the Mangawhero and Manganuioteao rivers the pick of fisheries to visit over the holiday period. 

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the team at Taranaki Fish and Game.