Reel Life November 2021

Taranaki is currently experiencing typical spring weather, with frequent moderate freshes interspersed with short periods of low flow.

This has kept the rivers in good condition, but anglers have had little time for fishing, and ringplain streams have received little use this season.

It’s a similar story in the Waimarino, with F&G Rangers reporting few anglers on the Manganuioteao on opening weekend, despite the river being in great condition for fishing. 

Those who managed to get out have had some success, with well-conditioned brown and rainbow trout taken on the spinner and fly. 

Above Right: Dylan, Mitchell, Billy and Pogal Moratti with their trout from the opening weekend of the new fishing season. 

The Stony (Hangatahua) River is clearing nicely following the July 2021 headwater erosion event (Photo Paul Clearwater).

Three months on, the south-western ringplain rivers adversely affected by the July 17 2021, 70-year rain and headwater erosion event are showing good signs of recovery.

The Stony River is clearing nicely, but the food supply for trout and native fish will take a bit longer, with just the occasional mayfly showing up at present.

If the recovery continues, we’ll look to make a release of well-grown Hawera hatchery rainbows in early December.

The Waiaua River will take a bit longer, and while it’s beginning to clear, it’s still very silty.

The Waiaua River as seen from Wiremu Road.

The moderate freshes we’ve been having are just what’s needed to move the sand through without creating more erosion in the headwaters.

Lake Mangamahoe has received a recent top-up of Hawera hatchery rainbows, and they’re providing good sport.

Tony Hurring and Curly McEwen with a couple of hatchery rainbows from Lake Mangamahoe (photo Tarn Mack-McEwen).

However, the lake’s brown trout population appears to be at a low ebb, and anglers are encouraged to release any browns they catch.

Lake Rotomanu Family Trout Fishing Day – Saturday, October 30 

There’s still time to book your kids or grandkids in for this event by giving Taranaki Hunting & Fishing a ring on 067572255.

Grab what fishing gear you have and bring the family along to Lake Rotomanu between 8 am and 1 pm to fish for 500 rainbow trout.

The Inglewood Rod, Gun & Recreation Club’s marquee tent will be set up by the boat ramp, and there will be free spinners and BBQ sausages available.

Covid-19 Level 2 restrictions apply, so please wear a mask and scan the QR code when entering.

 Tight Lines

Allen Stancliff, Taranaki Fish & Game Manager.