Reel Life November 2020

Outram Glen Softbait Clinic

Outram was a hotbed of angling activity last Wednesday night when about 50 anglers attended the first of three clinics on softbait fishing.

Softbaiting is a relatively new freshwater fishing technique, but it is one that markedly increases the angler’s chances of success.

However often with new techniques, anglers can be put off by a lack of or conflicting knowledge hence why we are running a series of workshops in the coming weeks.

We are hoping to remove the fear that anglers might have of trying a new technique and messing it up.

With so many fishing opportunities in Otago where you can try softbaiting out, we want anglers to have the most chance of success.

Softbaits can be used on any waterway in Otago designated for bait fishing.

They are an excellent means by which novice or junior anglers can have fishing success.

Two more clinics are planned, Alexandra on 22nd of November and Wanaka on 24th of January, anglers wanting to attend can find more information on the Otago Fish & Game Facebook page, and can register by following the link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MHXHTZP

A short promo video is available here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhcZnlSwhAs

Above: Keen anglers learning some tips and tricks before having a go at the first softbait clinic at Outram.

Softies in the Lower Taieri

Softbaits are certainly delivering the goods around the region.

This beauty was caught in the Lower Taieri on a cool foggy morning in early November.

Remember to use the lightest jig head you can cast easily and also vary your wind speed to make the soft plastic lure more lifelike in the water.

Perch in Butchers Dam

Anna Cunningham was fishing up at Butchers Dam, near Alexandra and caught a very nice redfin perch.

She was a bit confused when she pulled it in, not sure what she had in the net?!?

Perch are superb eating, and the fillets from this one would have made a great feed.

Nevis Voluntary Beat System

A reminder that the Nevis backcountry fishery has a new voluntary beat system this season. The system is designed to help manage access during periods of high demand.

The river is separated into sections or beats with signage installed at the start of each beat where there is a place to park your vehicle.

The system works on a first-come, first-served basis. As a courtesy to other anglers and for the enjoyment of all, please respect the voluntary beat system.

Casting For Recovery

The latest Casting For Recovery retreat was held over the weekend of 7^th and 8^th of November at Limetree Lodge in Wanaka.

A small group of women, who are recovering from breast surgery, learnt the ropes on Saturday morning from a keen group of experienced fly anglers.

Following some pampering on Saturday evening, the ladies headed out on Sunday morning to have a go in the rivers around Wanaka. Several fish were caught and all reports point to a very relaxing and enjoyable weekend.

Big ups to Lisa Britts for putting this together and Otago Fish and Game Officer Steve Dixon, who attended as one of the experts!!

Council AGM

The Otago Fish & Game Council are having their AGM on Thursday 26^th November in the Dunedin Office. The AGM and public forum will begin at 3 pm.

Useful links:

• Otago Fish & Game Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Otagofishandgame
• ORC water monitoring website provides a wealth of information regarding flows, levels and rainfall around the region. The map allows quick access to flow information regarding your favourite spot.

https://www.orc.govt.nz/managing-our-environment/water/water-monitoring-and-alerts

• Walking Access Commission Maps (WAMS) – showing public accessible areas in NZ

https://maps.walkingaccess.govt.nz/OurMaps/

• ORC pollution hotline: 0800 800 033

Tight Lines

Nigel Pacey, Otago Fish & Game Officer.