Otago Reel Life April 2019

Autumn and winter fishing in the Otago Region can be rewarding.

Don’t put you gear away just yet as some of the best fishing is still to come.

Most of the brown trout and lowland fisheries closed at the end of April but the main river systems and large lakes are open through the winter.

Above right: Anglers enjoying a peaceful day on Lake Hawea.

Please check your regulation guide here for open waters.

Large rainbows are now making their way up the Clutha River from Lake Dunstan. These fish are exciting to catch and will test your patience.

Try fishing the slower pools where fish rest up. Dark streamer flies and small spinners fished deep in the evening should provide some success.

River mouths should continue to be targeted over the next few months as fish line up for their turn to access rivers for spawning.

The lower Matukituki and Makarora rivers are open through the winter offer some great  angling opportunities.

It might get damp and cold but dress for the occasion and you'll be rewarded.

Most other main lake tributaries above the Clyde Dam close on May 31 so you have a month to fish the backcountry.

Finally, a salmon from Lake Wanaka!

Its taken a while but we've finally received a salmon sample from Lake Wanaka which is great news.

If you catch one in Lake Wanaka or you see salmon spawning in any lake tributary, we want to hear about it immediately.

Please contact Paul van Klink pvanklink@fishandgame.org.nz  Mob: 021-056 9146, or Cliff Halford chalford@fishandgame.org.nz  Mob: 027-2018153.

Seeking suitable river flows

Hooked up on the mighty Clutha River.

Fish & Game staff are actively working on your behalf to secure appropriate environmental flows on a range of waters in the Otago Region.

If you have waters in your area that are subject to the minimum flow setting process don’t hesitate to have your say.

Attend the public meetings, and if you wish to support Fish & Game with your knowledge please communicate with our environmental Officer, Nigel Paragreen nparagreen@fishandgame.org.nz

Anglers Notice review

A regulation change that will be considered at the May council meeting is halving the sea-run salmon daily bag from two to one in view of the very low numbers returning to spawn.

The one fish daily bag would also align with neighbouring Fish & Game regions' regulations.

This is the last edition of Reel Life until the spring and we hope that you have enjoyed the coverage for the Otago Region.

For those anglers that also hunt ducks I hope the opening weekend and season beyond treats you fairly.

Cliff Halford Fish & Game Officer

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