Reel Life October 2022

2022/23 Fishing Season off to an Awesome Start

The 2022/23 sports fishing season could not have gotten off to a better start.

The weather is great, and the fishing is even better!

Right:Boyd Ashby with grandson Niko Ensor fishing in the Grey Valley opening morning. (Photo Baylee Kersten)

The above-average spring temperatures we have been experiencing have really got the fishing season off to a great start.

The great news for anglers is that fishing is only going to continue to improve as things warm up.

Although we do encourage anglers to grab their licences soon to get the best value for money, getting a full year’s worth of fishing by purchasing their licence at the start of the season.

As for the weather, NIWA has predicted a great summer for the West Coast, similar to last year, so there will be no shortage of opportunities to get the family out.

Reports of great fishing have been regular, with especially the lake fishing for trout, salmon and perch being a hot topic.

The rivers are warming with all the recent fine weather, and insect activity is picking up.

Given the low flows currently, even though it's early season, it pays to fish with nothing too bold in the clear waters.

The lower reaches are a top spot in November, with smelt often present in high numbers (a trout favourite) and the white baiters out of the way with their shorten season.

Upcoming Events

The annual Lake Brunner Fishing Competition is taking place from November 25th to 27th, and as part of it, Fish & Game are running an educational family fishing skills and information session.

The skills and information session will be held on Saturday 26th of November, at 2 pm at the Moana Boat Ramp.

This event is for any angler who wants to increase their success but especially new anglers and younger anglers (that must be accompanied by an adult).

All fishing methods will be discussed, and advice will be given as well as the opportunity to ask a local Fish & Game officer about other spots in the region.

Please register your interest on ourFacebook event by clicking on this linkor emailbkersten@fishandgame.org.nzto be kept updated.

If you can not make the event but are after a few tips, clickhere to check out the Lake Brunner Fishing Secret Video.

Basics of Fly Fishing Course at the Taramakau River SH6 Bridge south side access point. From 10 am till 2 pm on Sunday the 4^thof December.

We are running a session to teach all the fly fishing basics - covering everything from casting and fishing techniques to setting up your rod and recommended beginner fishing locations.

The event will be run by West Coast field officer Baylee Kersten with potential assistance from a few other experienced anglers if there is high attendance.

Please bring a packed lunch and a deck chair for a great day riverside.

The event will be weather dependent, so be sure to check in the day prior for a postponement.

Please register your interest on ourFacebook event by clicking on this linkor emailbkersten@fishandgame.org.nzto be kept updated.

Tight Lines

Baylee Kersten, West Coast Fish & Game Officer