Reel Life October 2024 - West Coast

The 2024-25 sports fishing season is underway

As of October 1st, the highly anticipated start to the freshwater sports fishing season has begun. Three weeks into the new season, and there have already been some fantastic catches.

The 2024-25 season is off to a good start with warmer than average temperatures increasing fish feeding activity, directly influencing angling success. Slightly elevated river flows also increase the catchability of trout, so anglers out making the most of early season fishing opportunities will be reaping the rewards of some very naïve early season fish.

The timing could not be better to give fishing a go, as the lower reaches of rivers fish exceptionally well in spring with the seasonal influx of bait fish increasing trout activity. Lakes are also a fantastic early season option, especially during periods of wet weather when rivers may be unfishable, but the lakes fish their best. For those heading inland, the start of the new fishing season brings the opening of the headwaters and spring creeks to fishing that have been rested from angling over winter.

Upcoming Events

Lake Brunner Fishing Competition

The annual Lake Brunner Fishing Competition is taking place from November 29th to December 1st, 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 30th 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 our Facebook event by clicking on this link or email bkersten@fishandgame.org.nz to be kept updated.

If you cannot make the event but are after a few tips, click here to check out the Lake Brunner Fishing Secrets Video.

Basics of Fly Fishing Course

Basics of Fly Fishing Course at the Taramakau River SH6 Bridge south side access point. From 10 am till 2 pm on Sunday the 10th of 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 our Facebook event by clicking on this link or email bkersten@fishandgame.org.nz to be kept updated.