North Canterbury Weekly Fishing Report - 17th October 2024

Planning the weekend ahead

With the weekend just around the corner and favourable weather and river conditions, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy some fishing!

Lowland and foothill streams are fishing well, and with good river flows and cooler temperatures, they offer a great opportunity for those unable to venture into the high country. If you're looking for a day trip, now is the time to hit the water.

If you've wrapped up your chores and have the weekend free, consider getting away for a fishing adventure. Whether your jet boating up the Waimakariri Gorge or hiking into the headwaters of a remote backcountry stream, these areas are ideal right now. Early in the season, high river flows and wind likely kept anglers away, meaning the fish are less likely to be spooked.

 

What's being caught around the region? 

Marc's trip to the Lewis Pass

Marc did a day trip in and out of the Lewis Pass, an enjoyable 21km walk for the day which saw some great fishing action! 

The North Canterbury Team shot down to the Groynes late last week where fish were still being caught in the final days of the school holidays. These two confident anglers provided their licences and were super proud of the fish they caught!

 

Weekly Fishing Tip 

In this week’s fishing report, we catch up with Rusty at the North Canterbury Hunting & Fishing store in Rangiora. He shares some of his top tips for getting out there doing it in the lowland areas of North Canterbury.

St James Vehicle Access

Good news for anglers! DOC has opened vehicle access to the Malings Pass and Edwards Valley track, making it easier to reach the Waiau River or Lake Guyon. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore this remote area but remember to follow the DOC's code of conduct. This access is a privilege for hunters and anglers, so be sure to respect it.

For more information, check out the DOC guidelines here.

Streamer Fishing Tip

Fly fishing enthusiasts, here's a quick tip to get more action out of your streamer flies. Whether you're using a rabbit fly or a wooly bugger, try tying a loop knot to the eye of the hook. This allows the streamer to move more freely when you twitch it back towards you, creating more lifelike action in the water.

Loop knots also work great for certain spinners and hard baits. Give it a try next time you're out on the water!

Canterbury anglers across the F&G regions 

Over the past week Canterbury angler Peter has been exploring his was through the Southland Fish & Game Region. He reports that the weather has treated him well, alongside a handful of decent trout. Peter had the chance to catch up and go fishing with family and friends on his trip as well. Great stuff!

We want to hear about you travels in and out of North Canterbury. Wherever you might find yourself take a nice photo and send it in to the team. (more details below)

Weather across the region

The weather across the region looks outstanding for the weekend! With early-season high flows factored in, anglers heading out should have a rewarding experience. Don’t forget your sun protection and a bag full of snacks!

 To help you plan your fishing adventures, be sure to check the following resources:

• E-Can River Flows: River Flow Data
• Outdoor Access Live Cameras: Live Cameras (subscription required)
• MetService Weather Warnings: Weather Warnings

Happy fishing, stay safe out there!

 

Want to contribute to the weekly fishing reports?

Here at North Canterbury Fish & Game we are extremely passionate about sharing YOUR angling stories. Whether you caught a massive fish or took you girls and boys out fishing for the first time, want to hear and tell your stories.

 

When you’re out this season don’t forget to take some photos or videos and send them to jmeecham@fishandgame.org.nz with a little back story on your angling adventures.

 

Tight Lines for Week Ahead!

Jackson, Harry & the rest of the North Canterbury Team