Reel Life - December 2015
The mad hectic days before Christmas are about to end, leaving time for you to finally hit the water and start fishing.
All legally fishable lakes, rivers and streams are now open, so there are plenty of options available throughout the summer holidays.
The freshwater season so far has been variable, with the weather not helping in some regions, but as summer becomes established, conditions will improve.
In the South Island, the first salmon are being caught. While the main runs have yet to begin, the fish are there, and not all of them at the river mouths. Some good salmon are being caught further up-river and opportunities will only get better over the coming weeks.
Trout fishing in both islands is also improving.
After the early season preponderance of nymph fishing success, dry fly opportunities are now becoming more common, with some areas reporting that cicadas are starting to make a tentative appearance.
And of course, willow grubs will also soon be hatching, sending trout into a feeding frenzy in rivers and streams with willow-lined banks.
Whatever the opportunity, think about introducing your family or a friend to trout fishing – they will love it.
Make the most of your summer holiday break and may your lines be tight!
P.S Thanks Bernard Bailey for this month's cover pic, 10lbs of Lake Whakamarino brown trout! Photo taken by Trefor Ward.
P.P.S - If you think you've got a freshwater fishing image worthy of featuring on our 'cover', email it to Don Rood for consideration.
