Northland Reel Life February 2018

Crack out a cricket

Subtropical weather has caused flooding in several catchments, but thankfully we’ve escaped the full force of the ex-tropical cyclones that have hit New Zealand so far.

Weak La Nina conditions are still present and we are likely to see continued hot humid weather for some time yet.

Keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and river flow information when river fishing in Northland as conditions can change quickly.

Remember to stick to cooler, shaded forested upper catchments to have more chance of success.

A reminder that with high water temperatures not to over play your trout, and if they are legal size (300mm) or over consider taking them as stressed fish may not survive a release.

The continued hot, humid weather at this time of the year is perfect for breeding black field crickets.

Top right: one of these imitations can help you catch a trout...

They're to be found in huge numbers at the moment in Northland, and trout being opportunistic feeders will be taking advantage of this abundant seasonal food source.

With all this unsettled weather, Kai Iwi Lakes is still a good option for freshwater fishing if you can get your gear down into the trout zone.

Dragon fly larvae imitations are handy to have in your kit. 

Whau Valley Dam closed

Whau Valley Dam access sign.

Access to the dam will be closed while a logging operation takes place on a 6ha area nearby. Fish & Game is in contact with Whangarei District Council (WDC) and will notify anglers when the dam reopens.

WDC signs have been put up to notify the public of this closure. At this stage logging operations and remediation is due to take six weeks, however it could be longer due to weather.

For more information contact the WDC on: 09-4304200.

More Kai Iwi Lakes Bylaw consultation

Right: The five knot buoy.

It may seem as if consultation on this bylaw has been never ending, but the last part of the Kai Iwi Lakes Navigational Safety Bylaw is to be confirmed soon.

Anglers will hopefully have had their say about the 5-knot safety buffer around Lake Taharoa, and whether they want to see it stay at 200m or change to 100m.

The feedback period has just ended on February 28.

More information on the confirmed changes to the bylaw and this consultation can be found by searching ‘Kai Iwi Lakes Navigational Safety Bylaw’ on the Northland Regional Council website, or by phoning 0800-002 004.

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