Reel Life September 2021

I’m sure that after this most recent lockdown there are plenty of anglers who are keen to head out trout fishing to stretch their legs, clear their heads and gather some fresh fish for the table.

Above Right: Trout are back on the menu for anglers!

Fortunately for Southland anglers, we have some great fishing options that are close to main centres and currently open for fishing, so I thought I would share a few ideas.

Southland Fish and Game Field Officer Cohen Stewart with a good-sized perch from the lower Oreti River.

First up, there is the lower Oreti River below the Riverton-Wallacetown Highway.

This is a favourite spot of mine and is currently producing good numbers of trout and perch.

Next up, there is the lower Mataura. The fishing regulations for the lower Mataura were recently changed so that fishing is permitted all year below the Seaward Downs Bridge.

This will open up some fantastic pre-season angling opportunities.

Fishing on the lower Makarewa River (below the Wallacetown Bridge) is also an option for anglers.

I find that the fish in the Makarewa are not too difficult to catch at this time of year.

For Riverton based anglers, the lower Aparima River is a great spot to have on your doorstep.

The access point near the Riverton water intake (Whitegates access, Carmichael Road) is a great spot to try.

McKenzie and Paddy Dawson, fishing in their ‘bubble’ on Lake Te Anau at the Upukerora River Mouth.

The Lower Waiau River below the Tuatapere Bridge is open all year and will be worth exploring, especially the lagoon near the mouth.

Try white soft baits or silver Toby lures.

Finally, Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri and the Waiau Arm will also be worth a visit as there will be plenty of hungry post spawn brownies searching for a meal as well as the odd feisty pre-spawn rainbow.  

Good luck!

Tight Lines

Cohen Stewart, Southland Fish & Game Officer