Wellington Weekly Report March 17

We're looking down the barrel of a bit of damp and cold weekend with summer disappearing as quickly as it appeared.

That said, some fishing could be on the cards because at this stage the forecast rain looks isolated, at worst.

It's simply going to be a matter of watching carefully for updates, checking the river flow links we provide in this report, and crossing your fingers that the weather doesn't come to too much.

Given last week saw some exceptional fishing - with the rivers clear and the cicadas still going for it - It's a shame the rain hasn't held off longer.

So, if the opportunity to get out does present itself, make the most of it.

Pictured above right: A stunning stretch of water on the upper Rangitikei River, Wellington Fish & Game's premier backcountry fishery (Credit: Hamish Carnachan).

Here's the outlook:

Hutt River and tributaries

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The Hutt River is magic at the moment, the lowest it was been for months (surprisingly) but still carrying a bit of colour from the Mangaroa which plays into the angler's hands. Hit it this weekend and see if you can sneer that elusive trophy.

Kapiti Coast

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The Kapiti Coast rivers are looking superb. No issues with flow or weather here so nothing for it but to get into some fish!

Wairarapa

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Great conditions throughout the Ruamahanga catchment again this week. All the rain in the Wairarapa means the rivers are not suffering from the usual excessive irrigation take which can really hammer the flow and create algal blooms. This does mean the fish have more water so it's a matter of moving around a lot to find them.

Manawatu

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The Manawatu and its major tribs - the Pohangina and Oroua and Mangatainoka - are all looking great. The fishing has been very good in this part of the region too with reports of good numbers of well-fed fish about.

Rangitikei

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The Rangitikei and Hautapu are low clear and full of fish! Hit it this weekend - it'll be a stunner.