| Special Issue 49
Softbaiting Rivers
What's happening in your region! SPEY CASTING: OPENING NEW HORIZONS H-130 //
EVERYTHING PROOF.
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SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 3 SPECIAL ISSUE FORTY-NINE
| Special Issue 49 CHIEF EXECUTIVE MARTIN TAYLOR
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: KEVIN POWER
ADVERTISING KEVIN POWER Softbaiting [email protected] Rivers 027 22 999 68
PRODUCTION & DESIGN MANAGER CLARE POWER [email protected]
FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS ANTON DONALDSON, CHRIS BELL, ADRIAN BELL, JACK KÓS, JACK GAULD, DAVID MOATE, RICHARD COSGROVE, ADAM ROYTER, MARK WEBB We welcome submissions for features from the public. Please contact us in the first instance with your article idea and for our article guidelines and What's information at: happening [email protected] in your The act of sending images and copy or related region! SPEY CASTING: OPENING NEW HORIZONS material shall constitute an express warranty by the contributor that the material is original, exclusive to Fish and Game magazine and in no way an infringement on the rights of others. OUR COVER: It gives permission to Real Creative Media Ltd to Pictured is Olive Armistead, 10-years old, holding one use in any way we deem appropriate, including but of her catches from a trip to the canal system in the not limited to Fish and Game magazine, or on Fish Mackenzie country. It's only a small one for the area, but and Game websites or digital media and in future it is still a great catch on light tackle. publications by Fish & Game. On a previous trip to the canals Olive managed to Opinions expressed in contributions need not hook herself into the current Small Fry World Record, conform to Real Creative Media Ltd’s editorial (10-years old and under), with a 14lb rainbow trout. policy as we wish to provide a vehicle for This world record catch brought her tally of world discussion of different points of view on all things records to four!! hunting and fishing. Fishing-mad Olive has been surrounded by fishing her ISSN 1172 434X whole life. Growing up whilst dad, Mark, was running a pretty busy fishing charter business, she was exposed to plenty of fishing talk and has met her fair share of fishing personalities. For her, catching a fish is only a small part of what she loves about fishing — the rest is the adventure and the entire journey. It’s the little things — like cooking PUBLISHED BY REAL CREATIVE MEDIA LTD marshmallows on the campfire, enjoying a hot chocolate PO Box 8187, Cherrywood, Tauranga 3145 at the end of a cold day or just hanging out with her dad NEW ZEALAND for a few days — that she really enjoys. PH: 027 22 999 68
4 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND CONTENTS SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE
FEATURES 8 LOWLAND RIVER LOWDOWN ANTON DONALDSON REGULAR COLUMNS 6 CHIEF EXECUTIVE COMMENT 11 CAREFUL CATCH & RELEASE MARTIN TAYLOR TACTICS - CHRIS BELL 7 CHIEF EXECUTIVE COMMENT 16 GOING WITH THE FLOW 41 LATEST GEAR FOR THE SEASON SOFTBAITS IN RIVERS AND STREAMS 46 FEMALE COUNCILLORS ADRIAN BELL 50 FISH AND GAME NEW ZEALAND COUNCILLOR PROFILES 22 HITTING THE RESET BUTTON, MY YEAR AS A NON-RESIDENT JACK KÓS 28 TAKE A MATE FISHING REGIONAL VOICE JACK GAULD 54 NORTHLAND 32 IT'S ALL ABOUT THE ANGLES 56 AUCKLAND/WAIKATO DAVID MOATE 60 EASTERN 36 SPEY CASTING 64 HAWKE’S BAY THE TECHNIQUE OF TWO-HAND CASTING - RICHARD COSGROVE 66 TARANAKI 68 WELLINGTON 38 19 FISHING DO’S AND DON’TS 72 NELSON/MARLBOROUGH ADAM ROYTER 78 WEST COAST 84 A NEW ROAD TO SEA-RUN 82 NORTH CANTERBURY SALMON RECOVERY 87 CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND MARK WEBB 90 OTAGO 96 SOUTHLAND
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 5 CHIEF EXECUTIVE COMMENT
FISH & GAME~ 30 YEARS OLD
FISH & GAME AS AN ORGANISATION IS Internally, we face financial challenges. ALMOST THIRTY YEARS OLD. Over that Our five year financial modelling indicates period we’ve had a significant impact we can’t just keep increasing license on New Zealand through the proactive fees to meet cost increases – and yet positions we’ve taken on Water we also know that increasing the fee by Conservation Orders and intensive even $3 per year (or $15 over five years) farming pollution. will not produce enough to cover our
All in all, being successful for the next thirty years will only be possible if all governors, staff, anglers and hunters accept that change is inevitable and work together proactively to respond to all the challenges we face.
Without Fish & Game there would not expenses. So it’s clear we need to get a be the present high level of focus on handle on these costs, as well as focus on cleaning up our rivers, lakes and streams. identifying new sources of income. We Without Fish & Game there would not be owe that to our anglers and hunters. As an overwhelming level of public support an organisation we need to become more for Government regulations to start efficient and effective. reversing the sad state of some of our We also have to be mindful that in our waterways. Across the organisation those role as a regulator of a public resource governors who supported this approach, the Government expects us to be efficient and their CEO Bryce Johnson, have an and effective. This means that our costs environmental legacy to be proud of. have to be demonstrably reasonable so In 2019 Fish & Game knows that that licence prices are kept to a minimum. the next thirty years are going Collectively these challenges – to be just as challenging as the environmental, societal, and financial last thirty, but we hope that by – are significant. But each can be 2050 all those lowland rivers addressed, and each does provide in both islands which have been an opportunity if, and only if, we’re destroyed by intensive farming will have proactive in our response and we start recovered. that response now. If we’re not proactive, But over those thirty years we will also and we don’t plan and respond to these have to deal with a warming climate, known challenges then Fish & Game will and the impact this may have on water decline and lose relevance. temperature, and the distribution of All in all, being successful for the next ABOVE: trout and salmon; it’s probably fair to say thirty years will only be possible if all FISH & GAME NZ CE, MARTIN TAYLOR things will change. In addition, we will governors, staff, anglers and hunters have to respond to societal changes and accept that change is inevitable and work the way younger generations consume together proactively to respond to all the goods and services, and their approach challenges we face. The good news is that to recreation. Perhaps the buying of a the current NZ Council understands the facebook.com/FishandGameNZ full-season licence and being posted a situation and accepts that success over the single-use plastic card will be replaced next thirty years will begin with the work @fishandgamenz with digital day licences purchased on a we do in the next few years to meet the https://fishandgame.org.nz smart phone. challenges we know the future holds. twitter.com/fishandgamenz MARTIN TAYLOR, Chief Executive, NZ Fish & Game Council
6 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND NEWS
Conservation CAWTHRON AND PROFESSIONAL FISHING (Indigenous Freshwater Fish) GUIDES TOGETHER AGAIN Bill Update TO SUPPORT TROUT AND SALMON RESEARCH
Members of the NZ Professional Fishing Guides Association (NZPFGA) have made generous donations to the Cawthron Institute’s Freshwater Fisheries Fund, which was set up to support long-term trout and salmon research – to counter the fact that salmonid research funding in New Zealand has hit an all-time low. Association members have also offered to assist the Cawthron Institute with environmental data collection, and will be encouraging their clients to give back to the resource through donating to the Freshwater Fisheries Fund. Cawthron is working with the NZPFGA and Fish & Game to plan how the guides’ donations will have the greatest benefit. Most likely, the first project to be funded will be a Master’s research scholarship, to investigate trout habitat management in our front country rivers. Such a project will create knowledge while upskilling a New Zealander in evidence-based trout fishery management. This initiative is partly the brainchild of Tony Entwistle, Just a quick note to update you on the resource consents and Regional Plans, and picks up from a historical partnership Conservation (Indigenous Freshwater and exposing intensive agriculture's between Cawthron and the NZPFGA. Fish) Bill which has reported back from adverse environmental effects. This Twenty-odd years ago the NZPFGA Parliament's Environment Committee. has benefited all fish in New Zealand's were one of several key parties that Like you, Fish & Game had some freshwaters. successfully convinced the government serious concerns when this Bill was Fish & Game were concerned that to fund a Cawthron study on the impact introduced into Parliament. However, I am the Bill would, among other things, give of tourism on the sustainability of trout very pleased to report that the Bill is now freshwater management plans priority over fisheries. The outputs from that research in a much better shape that Fish & Game Fish & Game plans; alter restrictions on the are still being used in the Environment New Zealand can now support! taking, possessing or selling of sports fish Court to argue against developing By working with the Select Committee under Treaty settlements; and reduce Fish backcountry fisheries. and the Department of Conservation, we & Game's right to be consulted over the This initiative is seen as the start of have addressed most of the potentially introduction or release of fish. something bigger; the vision is that negative impacts on Fish & Game's Thanks to Fish & Game’s strong philanthropic funding will support long- interests and the sports fishery we advocacy, two of the three concerns term trout research in New Zealand. manage on behalf of all New Zealanders. have been removed from the Bill. While The Freshwater Fisheries Fund is for Fish & Game shares the goal of the Treaty clause has remained, we are anyone who wants to support research protecting and promoting indigenous confident that with further advocacy; this to protect New Zealand’s unique trout freshwater fish conservation. New clause will not impact on our sports fishery fisheries for generations to come. To find Zealand's indigenous fish would be far in the future. out more – or to donate, go to: worse off if Fish & Game did not advocate We committed to delivering on our vigorously for freshwater fish habitat over statutory goal of managing the sports www.cawthron. the last 20 years. fishery for the benefit of all New org.nz/ Fish & Game has bought, built and Zealanders, now and into the future so foundation/ restored many wetlands. We have spent you, your children and their children can donating- millions of dollars fighting for and continue to catch a fish. freshwater- winning Water Conservation Orders, The Select Committee report can be ecology-and- MARTIN TAYLOR, Chief Executive, NZ Fish & Game Council fisheries-research/ opposing environmentally hostile read on the Parliament website.
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Lowland River Lowdown
THE OBNOXIOUS SOUND OF THE ALARM attention for backdrops to his Lord of the ANTON DONALDSON Story & Photos clock fills the air with an ear-piercing Rings series, they still have their Shire-like screech. A drowsy glance reveals it is beauty. What they lack in beech forest and 8.30am. granite boulders they make up for in good Consciousness kicks in, and the numbers of willing, healthy trout. realization that it’s finally a day off begins The influx of anglers, both international “No three-hour hike to set in. What better way to enjoy a day and local, along with guides, have seen from a busy period of guiding than to our backcountry fisheries become busy or helicopter flight spend it fishing? to a point where it’s only the top echelon is required to visit Thoughts of where to fish on this of skilled anglers who can expect success glorious sunny March day begin to regularly. We are at a point where we a lowland river; flood through my pre-fishing cortex. An need to look at how to manage these 8.30am start for me is very gentlemanly fragile fisheries so that everyone benefits. most of them are and I instantly know that I have missed Lowland fisheries are a fantastic in fertile valleys an opportunity to beat the crowds to alternative for anglers, though. They any of the blue-ribbon backcountry offer many of the features that trout and almost always fisheries today – but this is a prime fishers desire. Ease of access is a huge opportunity to take advantage of our plus when it comes to people like me, have a conveniently- wonderful lowland rivers. who love a sleep-in. No three-hour hike placed road running The northern half of the South Island – or helicopter flight is required to visit and indeed all of New Zealand – is blessed a lowland river; most of them are in alongside.” with many kilometres of trout-infested fertile valleys and almost always have lowland waterways, and while these rivers a conveniently-placed road running may not have caught Sir Peter Jackson’s alongside. Bridges and reserves are
8 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND LOWLAND RIVER FISHING
already publicly accessible and, as these large bodies of water are bluebird FAR LEFT: for the rest, most land owners in New days with little or no wind. With the sun LOWLAND TROUT ARE WELL WORTH Zealand are more than happy to grant high in the sky between 10am and 3pm, THE ADMIRATION access to anyone who’s prepared to ask spotting fish is done relatively easily by permission and respect the rules. careful anglers. BELOW TOP: These rivers are often near to town Knowing where to find fish is a huge A FISH TO THE NET THAT CAME AS A RESULT OF A DRAG FREE DRIFT
“Sight fishing is what sets us apart from other angling BELOW BOTTOM: CHOOSING THE RIGHT BRAID CAN BE destinations around the world. Our clear water and THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUCCESS AND FAILURE larger-than-average fish allow us to see all the action.”
and offer a great chance to take the family along to give them their first taste of angling, or even just to enjoy a nice picnic while the family fishers do their thing. A great aspect of these bigger rivers is that they can quite often be fished with spinning gear and sometimes even with a live bait. This is a fantastic way to get children involved in trout fishing. No need to be an athlete to fish the lowland either; large rocks and bush excursions are at a minimum. A major attraction of these lowland fisheries is their high number of fish. In the backcountry we are often targeting low numbers of mostly large residential trout. These fish are sometimes hundreds of metres apart over rough terrain and are almost always hard to tempt during the peak of the season. The lowland rivers on the other hand are often so large that a good number of fish never see a fly all season. Negative angler encounters are almost non-existent, too. There’s so much water it’s a simple case of moving to a new spot, or crossing to the other side to keep both parties happy. So, there are many positives to fishing the large lowland rivers ... but in order to reap the benefits one must know how to fish big water successfully. Approaching a large river can be daunting for a lot of anglers. With all that water to cover it can be hard to know where to start. All methods can be successful but choosing the right technique at the right time will change the game. In my business as a guide I offer sight fishing almost exclusively to my clients. Sight fishing is what sets us apart from other angling destinations around the world. Our clear water and larger-than- average fish allow us to see all the action. So, the ideal conditions for sight fishing
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are holding deep, or not able to be seen, then I casually walk by, giving the water a cursory glance for easy opportunities. In high flows or high water temperatures, target areas where small streams flow in. These can provide cool, clear water where trout should move into to feed during these sub optimal conditions. Fishing braided rivers is another matter – it can sometimes come down to picking the right braid. Look for older, more- established braids: the algae on the rocks will be a clue. Newly-formed braid has little or no algae and, more importantly, a lack of established insect populations. Also, as you look upstream from the junction, look out for any areas where a channel may run up against a permanent bank. Fish need cover during high flows and permanent banks provide this. Matching the hatch in the lowland rivers can be important. Observation is king here. If the fish are rising pay close attention to what is on, or in, the surface film. If you feel you’re getting the pattern and size right then, as with all fishing in New Zealand, examine your drift. With dry flies maybe bring the distance you cast your fly above your target back to a couple of feet – the fly only has to drift advantage here. There are certain places naturally during the time the fish can see “Leave the stress of trout are more likely to be. These places it. Over-leading a trout gives the fly every could be in front of prominent rocks; in the chance to drag before it reaches the fish. negative angler seams of currents between fast and slower Generally when nymphing the bigger encounters and tough water; in the eyes of pools – and anywhere rivers you’ll be looking at smaller caddis else that a feature in the water creates a and mayfly nymphs. On days where I’m fish behind ... get out softer pocket of water near to a fast piece ‘imagination fishing’ I like to fish a tandem of river that will be bringing the fish food. nymph rig with one of each, just so I can there and enjoy fishing On these sunny days these areas should be work out the flavour of the day. our lowland rivers!” inspected carefully. Conversely, on gloomy, There is much to love in regard to our cloudy days these places should still be lowland rivers. These are our bread and inspected – not so much by eye this time, butter fisheries and need to be protected but with careful prospecting casts. Rather and nurtured just as much as do our than the term ‘blind fishing’ we should backcountry rivers. We’re seeing dramatic incorporate the term ‘imagination fishing’. changes to our lowland waterways in On cloudy days where the surface of terms of water quality, due to negative the water is covered with glare I like to human interactions and extreme weather move out into the water and use the events – but one of the biggest things dark bankside vegetation as a backdrop we can do as fishers in their ongoing to spot against (wading needs to be protection is to fish them. The more of done very quietly in this situation). It us there are spending time on these pays to look at the water as two rivers; waterways, the more voices these rivers fish each half thoroughly, rather than will have protecting them against dubious try to cover all the water poorly. Brown local and central government decisions. trout in particular will prefer the quieter If we don’t use them we’ll lose them! flows nearer the edge, in the main. So leave the stress of negative angler ABOVE: I place little emphasis on fishing the encounters and tough fish behind ... get GLOOMY DAYS OFTEN REQUIRE pools while fly fishing. If there’s a hatch out there and enjoy fishing our lowland IMAGINATIVE FISHING TACTICS on then that’s a different story but if fish rivers!
10 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND SPECIAL FEATURE
Release
CHRIS BELL Story & Photos
THE CAREFUL CARE AND HANDLING OF TROUT into the habit of doing this and you’ll lose fewer ABOVE: A CHUNKY “MOUSE” TO GIVE THEM THE BEST CHANCE OF SURVIVAL fish! Using strong tippets should reduce the time FISH BEING CAREFULLY is something I’m very passionate about, and I it takes to land a fish, resulting in less stress and SUPPORTED UNDER don’t see it discussed as much as it should be! I exhaustion for the trout. THE PECTORAL FIN AND have been fortunate enough to study and work HEAD REGION TO AVOID with trout, salmon and many different species BARBED VERSUS BARBLESS HOOKS. POTENTIALLY HARMFUL of New Zealand native fish for the last 24 years, The use of barbless or crushed barb hooks PRESSURE ON THE MORE during which time I have often been able to to allow for quick, safe, fly removal can only be SENSITIVE BELLY AREA. monitor and assess different handling methods positive for the fish. It’s sometimes claimed that Photo credit: Sam Harrison and their short and long-term effects on fish. barbless hooks penetrate further than barbed The theory that trout are as tough as old hooks and therefore inflict more damage to the boots isn’t quite true. They do put up with fish, but I’ve never seen any evidence of this. some extreme environmental stresses including Apparently some barbless hooks in the 1980’s flooding, warm water/low oxygen, predation, were found to cause damage to some trout’s and sometimes intense competition, but like any jaws by penetrating the bony structure, but that animal they have their limits, and sometimes doesn’t seem to happen with the more modern even just a second or two of careless handling designs. Interestingly, crushed barbed hooks are while being played or in the landing/release often considered better than barbless, as they are process, can lead to a distressing end for one of easily removed and usually don’t penetrate as far these beautiful creatures. Ultimately we want to as pure barbless hooks. It only takes a second to know that when the fish swims off it will have crush a barb to possibly make a difference! the best chance of survival, and we should all Quite often I find my fly will have fallen out be working to reduce the factors that can have a of the trout’s mouth in the landing net prior to negative impact on this. me manually removing it, and yet the reduction in landing rates is negligible compared to using "The use of SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR HELPING REDUCE HARM barbed hooks. More important however is that TO TROUT WHEN BEING CAUGHT AND RELEASED: if a fish breaks the leader, we can feel confident barbless or USE STRONG TIPPETS. that it will likely shed the hook before the crushed barb Use as strong a tippet as possible which cannot leader becomes tethered. Admittedly, a barbed be detected by the fish or negatively affect the hook will, over time, either fall out or rust out hooks to allow natural presentation of the fly, and check tippet of a trout’s mouth – but this will take much condition constantly when fishing to avoid longer, putting the fish at greater risk. My own for quick, safe, prolonged fights and the possible snapping-off experiments found that bronzed fly hooks left fly removal can of fly and tippet on a lost fish. Before casting in water for up to a month didn’t rust, although to a sighted fish I always go through a routine it’s likely that different water chemistry, varied only be positive of testing every knot, and running my fingers dissolved oxygen levels, and particular fish’s through the terminal tippet material to make sure blood enzymes would likely influence the for the fish." that there are no weaknesses or damage. Get oxidation of the steel differently. For this reason
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ABOVE: I suspect that the popular theory that but the most important factor is that IF YOU CHOOSE TO HANDLE FISH lost flies will rust out of a trout’s mouth you’ll notice more protective mucous WITH GLOVES MAKE SURE YOU FULLY relatively quickly is pretty inaccurate. membrane is removed from the trout’s SATURATE THE GLOVE MATERIAL FOR This view is strengthened by several skin onto even pre-wet gloves, compared SEVERAL SECONDS BEFORE TOUCHING studies which have scientifically tested to pre-wet hands. The protective THE FISH’S SKIN. THIS WILL HELP hook retention in brook trout and other mucous membrane is the fish’s natural REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF PROTECTIVE fish species including bass, in which very defence against the growth of unwanted MUCUS REMOVED. high rates of hook retention (70-80%) pathogens/fungus on its skin, and it also were found to occur – for periods of in some instances helps to maintain the up to 120 days. One of these studies constant internal environment within the also highlighted that significantly less fish. Although this layer can be replaced bleeding was caused by barbless hooks by the fish, even temporary removal compared to barbed hooks. of parts of it can allow the unwanted The use of single barbless flies is growth of fungus. I have watched a 15 lb particularly desirable in waters where trout slowly meet its end after just a few snags and abundant tree root cover exist, moments of careless handling, as fungus in order to improve the likelihood of a grew from the areas which had been lost fish’s survival. Snapped-off fish will in contact with a person. The fact that often head for the security of cover, and scientists I have worked with over the the trailing fly of a double hook rig can years have seemed invariably to prefer entangle in tree roots or other hazards – a the use of pre-wet hands to gloves, surely situation that could very well be fatal. adds strength to the argument!
GLOVES OR BARE HANDS. PRE-SATURATE SUN GLOVES. There has always been the big debate If you choose to wear gloves when on whether it’s better to use gloves/ handling fish, saturate them well in pantyhose or bare hands when handling advance. When dry, the open porous fish. There’s no question that you’ll have weave of the usual nylon material will a better grip on the fish using gloves, absorb the protective membrane of the 12 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND HOW TO ...
fish while the glove’s absorbing water KEEP FISH CLOSE TO THE WATER WHEN for the seconds after immersion, and LIFTED FOR A PHOTO. if you compare the two surfaces after It’s good practice to keep fish close to releasing a fish, gloves will be much the water when taking a photo, just in case slimier compared to wet hands. I make a the angler accidentally drops it. It usually habit of wetting my hands while playing makes for a much “sexier” natural photo a trout prior to the actual netting of the as well, which will be respected by other fish, as on many occasions I’ve seen anglers! The “Keep ‘em Wet” movement dry-handed anglers grab excitedly for can also only be positive for those anglers a floundering fish’s tail to help direct it who are happy to have a photo of the fish into a net prior to wetting their gloves, in the water, as opposed to the common very likely causing increased loss of the out-of-the-water “grip and grin” shot. protective membrane. The pre-wetting of gloves and hands is also very important AVOID BEACHING FISH ON DRY, SHARP to cool down the surfaces coming in OR HARD SURFACES. contact with the fish. Avoid beaching a fish on sharp rocks or any uneven/rough surface, and make AVOID PROLONGED HOLDING IN ONE sure the surface is already wet. If the LOCATION. fish is not fully tired it can flap around Try to avoid holding onto the same part aggressively, resulting in sometimes of the fish (e.g. tail) for extended periods harmful damage to itself. without slightly reducing your grip every 20 seconds or so to allow fresh cooling ALLOW TIME FOR A GOOD BLOOD CLOT water to surround the fish’s skin. This is SET IF A LANDED FISH IS BLEEDING. especially important when handling fish Remove the fly quickly and leave the fish with bare hands. in the net in a quiet flow area if possible, to allow the bleeding to clot (sometimes PRE-WET LANDING NET MESH. up to 4 minutes in my experience); then Try to pre-wet the landing net mesh keep it in the net for at least another prior to landing a fish; this will both 2 minutes, to ensure a good clot hold soften and cool down the net mesh at the site of the wound. We want to material that will come in contact with prevent a sensitive clot from being the trout prior to landing. Black plastic dislodged due to a premature release mesh exposed to direct sunlight while as this will be detrimental to the fish’s fishing can sometimes get quite hot, and survival. Don’t be too alarmed by the will take several seconds to cool down bleeding; a little blood can look like when submerged in the water! a lot and always appears to come Knotless mesh is definitely much from the gills, due to the respiratory better for the fish, and the newer water flow. In my experience there is plastic-coated/rubberised mesh even hope for fish that are bleeding absorbs less protective mucous significantly – most bleeding will clot membrane than the common green and the fish will swim away. nylon type. Nets produced with coarse By letting it go carefully there is at mesh are harder to hold in fast-flowing least a chance of survival! water; however, the older finer green TOP: knotless mesh entangles the jaws CHOOSE A SAFE RELEASE LOCATION. A CRACKER FISH READY TO BE RELEASED of some fish (especially jacks) more In a moving water environment always AFTER A FEW SHORT SECONDS OUT OF easily, resulting in complications when try to release your catch out of the THE WATER FOR A QUICK PHOTOGRAPH releasing a fish. The entanglement of heavy flow, especially if it’s had a long the trout’s maxillae is also much more hard fight, or has experienced increased MIDDLE: likely in the finer green mesh with the physiological stress. A quiet edge can ACTION STATIONS; A STRONG BROWN wider gaps, possibly tearing this part be good enough, but a larger quiet area PUTS A NICE BEND IN THE ROD ON A of the fish’s jaw. In such situations it’s nearby can provide even better recovery VERY MEMORABLE DAY IN WESTLAND always good to untangle the jaw and odds. If the fish is exhausted and maxillae before lifting the fish, and to turbulent water is present at the release BOTTOM: lay the fish flat in the bottom of the location, try removing all your gear to a AN ADVENTURE INTO THE UNKNOWN, net bag to avoid excessive bending location further downstream, and then EXPLORING NEW WATER. ANTICIPATING of its body when being lifted. This is slowly release the fish in quieter edge WHAT AWAITS AROUND THE NEXT especially important with larger/heavier water where it will hopefully sit and rest. CORNER KEEPS THINGS EXCITING! fish in “mousey” condition. If you then back off out of view behind
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 13 SPECIAL FEATURE
the fish in its blindspot, you and your the camera ready and get the angler to sure not to allow fingers to enter gear won’t be seen by the fish again, remove their catch from the water for the sensitive internal gill area, or thus preventing it being scared into the only 5 seconds at a time, before placing come in contact with the eyes. This surrounding rough water, before it’s it back in the net to get some oxygen. is especially important with larger made a good recovery. The fish should then be allowed at least overweight fish such as those showing another 15-20 seconds of breathing “mousey” condition where, when REMOVE FLIES WITH THE FISH’S GILLS IN time before being lifted again if a removed from the neutral buoyancy THE WATER. second photo opportunity is necessary. water environment, all the fish’s weight Remember these fish have just been A fish being admired by an angler while may be point-loaded on the sensitive fighting for their lives and are likely beads of water drip off its body makes internal organs if held further back exhausted, just like us having run a for a stunning photo, showing that the in the stomach area, away from the marathon. After a fight, if a trout is fish has only briefly been removed from strengthened pectoral/bony region of removed from the water for excessive the water. With modern technology the fish. periods not only can they not get the it’s possible to get multiple rapid-fire essential oxygen they need, but also photos of the trout as it’s lifted from REMOVING FLIES CAN BE EASIER WHEN metabolic nitrogenous wastes which the net and released; alternatively, a THE FISH IS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN. would normally be excreted into the quick video of the release may be your When removing the fly turn the trout water via their gill membranes then build preference. upside down in the net by holding its tail. up in the blood, essentially resulting in Inverting the fish will cause it to go into blood poisoning. The fish may swim off AVOID LIFTING FISH VERTICALLY JUST a state of tonic immobility, a “mellowed and appear fine, only to die perhaps a few FROM THE TAIL. out” state, like that exhibited with sharks hours later, due to its having been held Lifting the fish by its tail means all in many wildlife documentaries. Placing a out of the water for too long! its weight is transferred through the fish in this position will reduce its activity, spine. With heavier fish – perhaps 5lb thus making fish handling and fly removal THINK “GILLS IN THE WATER AT ALL and larger – the vertebrae can partially much easier. TIMES!” dislocate because of the increased Only remove a fish from the water for weight stress involved. LIMIT SQUEEZING OR LARGE AMOUNTS short periods when taking photographs. Instead, hold the tail and support OF PRESSURE WHEN HOLDING A FISH. I aim at only having a trout out of the fish under the pectoral girdle/ Hold the trout’s tail reasonably firmly, the water for 5 second intervals. I have the head operculum area, making without excessive pressure to cause
14 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND HOW TO ...
"Inverting the fish will cause it to go into a state of tonic immobility, a “mellowed out” state, like that exhibited with sharks in many wildlife documentaries, resulting in significantly reduced activity making fish handling and fly removal much easier"
bruising, but don’t squeeze the fish further from having to be lifted from the water condition-related factor. forward of the tail. Its gills and eyes are its into a boat for easier removal of a fly. I hope that this information will prove least protected and most sensitive areas helpful, and will perhaps provide some which should be carefully avoided, with OTHER THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN OUT good topics for discussion when you certainly no pressure or squeezing. The ON THE WATER: and your fellow anglers are next out fish can be supported just using the on the water. These views are based fingertips up under the pectoral fins IF POSSIBLE, AVOID FISHING WATER on my observations and research and or head. This will also produce a more WARMER THAN 20°. ultimately my aim with writing this stunning photograph, with no clumsy The warmer water will contain less article is that more fish will swim away fingers masking the beautiful flank of a dissolved oxygen and played fish can and have the best chance of survival trophy fish. be put under extreme stresses in such after being released. conditions. FLOATING LANDING NETS REPRESENT EXCELLENT FLOATING CAGES. DON’T ALWAYS AIM TO CATCH EVERY Although not every angler’s FISH YOU SEE. ABOVE: preference, a wooden net anchored If you and your companions have THE SOUTH ISLAND BACKCOUNTRY to the stream bottom of slow-flowing already had a good day, don’t over- ON AN EPIC WEATHER DAY water using an attached nylon strap pressure the fishery by continuing to acts as an excellent floating cage to catch every trout you see. Maybe this FAR LEFT: securely hold a landed fish. The floating is a good opportunity to check out an KEEP FISH CLOSE TO THE WATER’S frame of the net doesn’t collapse over alternative location. SURFACE WHEN LIFTED FROM THE a netted trout like other sinking net WATER TO TAKE A PHOTOGRAPH types, which can sometimes restrict IF A FISH APPEARS TO BE IN POOR AND, WHERE POSSIBLE, CHOOSE A gill breathing movements. They’re also CONDITION, OR STRESSED IN SOME WAY, LOCATION WITH ENOUGH WATER ideal for use in boat fishing situations MAYBE LEAVE IT ALONE AND TRY TO FIND DEPTH BELOW WHERE THE FISH IS where the net can be allowed to float OTHER “HAPPIER” FISH. BEING HELD, TO HELP PROTECT IT in the water securely holding a landed Often darker-coloured fish sitting in FROM HITTING A HARD SURFACE IF trout, making the handling and release the quieter edges are showing signs of ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED of the fish a much easier two handed stress, perhaps due to being previously procedure. This further prevents a fish caught, or some other environmental or
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 15 SPECIAL FEATURE
Going with the Flow FISHING WITH SOFTBAITS IN RIVERS AND STREAMS
Story: ADRIAN BELL PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL MALCOLM PHOTO:
SOFTBAITS, FORMULATED IN THE LATE I started fishing there for escapee A light and 1950S AND EARLY 60S FOR CATCHING salmon with softbaits late in the flexible graphite rod is BASS IN FRESHWATER, have been June of 2012. The technologies and through many developments, leading to techniques that emerged from that essential, both for distance the huge range of variants available on two-day quest and subsequent trips the market today. In the introduction to would later be extended to softbaiting casting with light jig heads his 2007 book Fishing with Soft Plastics for trout in lakes and rivers – well and for subsequent bite in New Zealand, John Eichelsheim writes away from the canal context. I was “Soft plastics, softbaits, rubber tails accompanied by Ben Booth and my detection. But this was a – call them what you like – they’re the brother Malcolm who had experienced most exciting thing to hit fishing in New success in Ohau C earlier in the month, lesson I had to learn ‘out in Zealand in a long time – perhaps ever.” and my learning curve was steep. My the field’. Judging by the less than two pages he reel had been lined with 8lb Fireline has devoted to their use in freshwater, braid. One-and-a-half metres of 8lb it’s apparent – at least in 2007 – that fluorocarbon had been knotted on. fishing with softbaits was primarily a Once on location, a jig head of bait – typically shrimps or huhu grubs – is saltwater phenomenon. Even the one a weight suitable for the current flow permitted, so the use of scented baits photo of a freshwater fish contained in regime was tied on and a Berkley Gulp falls under that mantle. the book, a Chinook salmon, was caught scented softbait attached. With names Braided line is preferred over nylon in Otago Harbour. John concludes his such as Mouldy Cheese and Banana because of its better sink rate and bite freshwater section by saying: “Softbaits Prawn, it’s obvious that the designers detection. When fishing with hard baits, are probably the most lifelike lures so were not required to provide names a single hit signifies that a fish has struck, far invented by the tackle industry and I that suggested the form and colour of but with softbaits investigative bites have no doubt the list of species that fall the bait fish they were emulating. Made typically precede a committed take. So, to them will continue to grow as their using water-based resins, Gulp baits rather than striking at the first bite, it’s use expands” – prophetic words indeed. are soaked in – and can be ‘re-charged’ better to allow the fish to ‘come on’, such There was a very good reason why their with – Gulp Alive, a scented solution that as when fishing for yellow-eyed mullet. A use was about to expand in freshwater, attracts fish. Fish and Game councils have light and flexible graphite rod is essential, and that is centred around a remarkable classified these as bait, which can be both for distance casting with light jig fishing opportunity that is exclusive to used in about half of the waterways that heads and for subsequent bite detection. the South Island – the canal fishery. they administer. At the canals the use of But this was a lesson I had to learn ‘out in
16 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND SOFTBAITING
the field’. Back then, Malcolm and I had equipped ourselves with rods that fitted the brief; however, failing to recognise the need to deploy such a sensitive rod, I had left mine back in his vehicle, opting instead for a stiff, two-piece rod that failed to register the subtle probings of the salmon. Well how could it, when the minimum casting weight of the rod PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL was rated at ¼ oz and I was using jig 1 1 heads of either /16 or /12 oz? So, afraid of being totally out-fished by my mates, I hastened back to the truck to fetch the rod I should have been using from the start. As a result, I was able to cast further and detect bites more easily, resulting in the capture of several bright silver salmon weighing between 7.5 and 11.7 pounds. Lesson learned. As a result of the successful deployment of softbaits in the canals, PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL JNR some freshwater anglers began asking the question: why shouldn’t we use them in areas where bait is not allowed? Supporting arguments might have involved the following points: while scented, they are not actually bait per se. ‘Unscented’ softbaits (where oil is mixed with melted PVC and poured into moulds) are allowed in areas where spin fishing is permitted, and some of those have been infused with scent, so why can’t we use Gulp baits? The Southland Fish and PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL Game council heard the call and wrote the regulation: “Scented artificial lures last a lot longer and can be stored easily may be used in all waters other than in plastic boxes along with jig heads and fly fishing only waters, when actively hard baits. That’s a big plus. UV-reflective PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL fished so as to imitate a bait fish.” Note surfaces can be incorporated and a the caveat at the end. What exactly does large range of tail types is available, ‘when actively fished so as to imitate from straight to aggressive paddle-tails. FAR LEFT: SOFTBAIT FISHING a bait fish’ actually mean in practice? I’ve hardly used a scented bait since AFICIONADO, CHRIS WILLIAMS HOOKS Before attempting to answer that discovering soft plastics. Maybe scent is AND LANDS A MAGNIFICENT question, it’s advisable to look at the pros not as important as we’d thought. BACK-COUNTRY BROWN and cons of each category of softbait. It is informative to compare the Gulp baits are biodegradable - that’s a different interactions between fishing ABOVE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: plus; however, they must be kept moist technique and flow. One could place MARCUS RELEASES A RAINBOW CAUGHT or they will dry to a crisp. Also, Gulp Alive those techniques on a continuum ON SOFTBAIT IN LAKE GRASMERE; can leak from storage containers, with between drifters (that move with the IT SEEMS THAT TROUT WILL TAKE A malodorous consequences for formerly flow) and opposers (that move against SOFTBAIT MORE READILY THAN A HARD pristine fishing gear. After my mate Wyatt the flow). Most dry fly, small wet fly BAIT IN BRIGHT SUNLIGHT. introduced me to unscented plastic baits, and nymph fishing techniques occupy I was impressed by their verisimilitude, the drifters’ end, while streamer MIKE WAS USING A ⅛ OZ JIG HEAD TO their texture and resilience. If they are fly, and some dry fly and nymphing GET DOWN TO WHERE THIS RAINBOW infused with scent, this is subtle enough techniques lie closer to the opposers’ WAS LYING. to define them as ‘unscented’. Where end, with hard bait and popper fishing scent is incorporated into PVC baits, it is methods occupying that extreme. So THIS RAINBOW WAS UNABLE TO RESIST A meant to be released when a fish bites where would we place softbaits on NOEBY SOFTBAIT. on it. Additionally, the colours and colour that continuum? The answer to that combinations of plastic baits are superior question will have implications for the LANDING A RAINBOW ON A NOEBY to those found in resinous softbaits. They way we fish softbaits in current. SOFTBAIT.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 17 SPECIAL FEATURE
Our modus operandi when fishing the Ohau C canal was to cast our softbaits well out, as close as possible to the downstream edge of a farm net holding salmon. Then we tried to let them sink on
PHOTO: BEN BOOTH PHOTO: the same trajectory as the pellets exiting the salmon nets, mending our lines to keep in touch with our terminal tackle. When the flow was very slow, we would watch for a slight lift in the line and strike then. So much for the drifting phase. As the bait entered shallow water, it was retrieved. Bites could occur as it sank, drifted, or was wound in. In the canals, at least, softbait fishing could be classified as belonging in the ‘drifters’ end of the continuum. Surfacing snails, as well as ABOVE: pellets, drift in the current so it figures that MALCOLM KEEPS PRESSURE ON A a drifting presentation would work there. WILDERNESS TROUT THAT TOOK HIS One morning I modified my technique SOFTBAIT when seeing a trout rise. After casting above the fish, I gave the handle a couple RIGHT: of rapid winds then changed to a slower CHRIS WITH A TROPHY-SIZED retrieve. That’s when the large trout BROWN CAUGHT ON SOFTBAIT absolutely smoked the softbait! While a hard bait may have caught the same fish, INSET & BELOW: it’s a mistake to see a softbait as being WHEN YOU LOOK AT THE STATE OF just another form of spinning bait. THE JIG HEAD THAT HE CAUGHT IT Away from the canals, it was time ON, CHRIS IS FORTUNATE HE’S ABLE to take the technology to lakes. After TO RELEASE THIS BROWN! targeting a drop-off along the edge of an inflowing stream the softbait is allowed to sink before being retrieved very slowly and jerkily. It has been gratifying to realise that softbaits have the edge over hard baits in bright sunlight – at least in lakes. It was time to take the technique to rivers and streams. Here, away from the relative PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL MALCOLM PHOTO: homogeneity of the canals, the ability to read water and know how to fish it is paramount. By way of comparison it’s helpful to observe what happens to a hard PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL bait when it opposes the current; the floating Rapala X-rap serves as a good example. It’s typically cast at an angle upstream. For it to sink and wobble, it has to be retrieved faster than the current then, as it starts to swing, the retrieval rate can slow in proportion to the increasing effect of the current as the hard bait arcs into a more downstream position. The carefully designed bib, being solid, opposes the current, causing the hard bait to sink and wobble, and the ball bearings to rattle. This is what makes hard baits so effective in coloured water. But what happens when a softbait is cast upstream? PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL MALCOLM PHOTO:
18 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND SOFTBAITING
One with a paddle-tail is recommended that he targets. So much depends upon for river fishing. As the weight of the jig his understanding of the depth and After casting head is what determines the sink rate, velocity of water, the type of substrate, it can be fished either with a dead drift the presence or absence of large rocks above the fish, I gave or very slightly faster than the current. or other obstructions, drop-offs, pockets, Even during a dead drift, the paddle-tail braid entries, proximity to the sea, tidal the handle a couple of will move. As it drifts or swings in the influences. There is much to learn. rapid winds then changed to a current, the same effects of flow that My first capture of a stream-caught influenced the hard bait are brought to trout on softbait occurred on a local slower retrieve. That is when bear on the softbait. However, instead stream; my neighbour Marcus had told of the whole bait moving, it is primarily me that he’d had success there fishing the large trout absolutely the tail that moves. It is like the stealth the rising tide with softbaits. When he smoked the softbait! bomber of the underwater world, where found me a trout, which was parked the only sound made is when it hits in a small bay surrounded by willow the bottom. As paddle-tails fall into the branches, I cast a grey-clear paddle- unscented category, the Southland caveat tailed softbait just short of its nose. fly-fishing, the identification of these hardly applies, but if a scented bait were I’d hardly begun the retrieve when the lies can either reveal a sighted fish, to be used, it is obvious that it would brownie struck – too easy. Usually there’s or simply a spot where one might be. resemble a bait fish for at least some of more to it. In his softbait schools, my Accurate casting in line with the fish or its trajectory. brother emphasises the reasons why a structure is a must, with an appropriate Just as some fly fishermen are more trout chooses to occupy a particular lie: ‘lead’ given – just as for fly fishing. The successful than others, such is the case namely for the cover it provides and the Goldilocks problem applies to mending. with softbait anglers. A truly successful opportunities for predation that it affords. Too much and you will compromise the practitioner will have at his fingertips all So he’s looking for the same structures drifting phase; not enough and bites of the elements of managing drift, sink- that he would seek as a fly fisherman. won’t be detected. rate, swing and retrieval, as well as the When confronted by big water, he The question arises: if the technique appropriate weight of jig head and shape, concentrates on little spots out of the is similar to fly-fishing, why not leave size and colour of softbait, and will know flow, the very shallow edges of riffles, the spinning rod at home and fish solely how to adapt these to any stream or river corners, drop-offs and pockets. As with with fly gear? The answer lies with the
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SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 19 SPECIAL FEATURE
PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL
LEFT: MALCOLM SUBDUES ANOTHER SEA-RUNNER IN THE TIDAL WATER ABOVE: MALCOLM WITH HIS BEST SEA-RUN FISH OF THE DAY –
So next time ADRIAN BELL PHOTO: SOFTBAITING HAS PROVED ITS EFFECTIVENESS you pack a threadline of the flow and positioned while wading across stream I caught and himself so that he could cast a landed a larger fish. Then, when halting rod into a favoured stream, 1 paddle-tailed softbait on a /12 my retrieve to ensure that I hadn’t left consider taking along a selection oz jig head upstream at about my net on the riverbank, another brown 45 degrees to the current snatched the softbait as it was drifting in of softbaits and jig heads. You emanating from the stream, the current. targeting the soft water on the The jury is out as to whether UV may be surprised by how other side of the flow. Soon reflectivity enhances the attractiveness enjoyable and productive he’d caught and released three of a softbait. However, in a Canadian bright sea-runners. Then, using study, researchers found that ultraviolet- the fishing is. his rod, I hooked and lost a sensitive cones are present in sexually fish and had another follow mature adult salmonids, suggesting up before Malcolm crossed that UV reflective surfaces in softbaits the flow and caught a larger may be significant. A UV torch will versatility of the technique, such as the trout further upstream. Later he caught reveal whether these are present or not. ability to cast further, the greater ease of another in the lagoon. Later again, Another question to consider is whether casting into a strong headwind, the ability however, the tide was down, and the fish trout are able to determine the potential to drift a softbait under an obstruction had gone. softness of prey items using sonar. If such as a willow branch, and the ability to Last March, when visiting our that were possible, it would help to get down to where the fish are - quickly. I daughter’s family on the Motueka, I explain why softbaits are so successful. was with Mike Donnelly when he caught caught a couple of browns on nymph, Whether packing a threadline rod a fish that had been lying downstream then discovered that I’d left my rod bag to use in conjunction with a fly rod, or of the deep pocket formed as a result at the bottom end of the beat I’d been deploying one exclusively, there are of a braid entering the main current of fishing. Suspecting that the drop-off practical advantages in choosing to fish the upper Rangitata. His softbait was that I’d observed extending on the with softbaits rather than hard baits. 1 attached to a /8 oz jig head, which angle across the river the previous day A softbait mounted on a jig head is a enabled it to sink quickly. As soon as he might be a great spot to drift a softbait, cheaper prospect than a bibbed lure. felt it touch the bottom, he began the I took the gear with me early the next The same jig head can be used again and retrieve, and hooked a rainbow. morning when I went to retrieve the rod again with a variety of softbaits, meaning Last year my brother and I checked bag. I’d attached a red/brown Sabile that continual knot-tying is not an issue. 1 out the bottom section of a small stream softbait to a /12 oz jig head. I like this Conversely, if conditions require a whose egress to the sea was normally lure because its belly reflects UV light heavier or lighter jig head, it doesn’t take blocked by a sand dune, but not this and it has a paddle tail. long to change. And the single hook is time. I had unwisely left my softbait What happened next is indicative of easier on fish – particularly if you intend gear in the truck, but Malcolm was ready why softbaits have the edge on hard to release them. to capitalise on the opportunity that baits. Starting from the riverbank, I had So next time you pack a threadline the breach had afforded us. The tide three casts, getting bites on each, before rod into a favoured stream, consider was about ¾ full and dropping. Rather hooking up a fat little brown on the taking along a selection of softbaits and than trying to cover all the water of the third. There wasn’t a lot of current, so jig heads. You may be surprised by how lagoon, Malcolm determined the location the bites occurred on the swing. Later, enjoyable and productive the fishing is.
20 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 21 SPECIAL FEATURE Hitting the reset button My year as a non-resident
22 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND HITTING THE RESET BUTTON
"I saw our fishery with new eyes; I felt a renewed passion for it, accompanied by a desire to see it protected for future generations." JACK KÓS - Story & Photos
IT’S COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT TROUT BUMS AROUND THE WORLD DREAM OF VISITING NEW ZEALAND. Our crystal-clear water, large fish and spectacular scenery make for a trout fishing destination that is envied and coveted everywhere.
NEW ZEALAND ANGLERS ARE FAMILIAR individuality that many New Zealand trout WITH THE SEASONAL INFLUX OF NON- fisheries do. Fly shops would regularly RESIDENT ANGLERS VISITING DURING have parties with kegs of local beer and THE PEAK SUMMER MONTHS; a little a barbecue, and breweries would host fly less common is the reverse flow - a Kiwi tying nights. In some instances specific angler going to spend a year in the States rivers, such as the Henry’s Fork, have their – fishing, hiking and just generally having own unique culture. Each year hundreds, a little too much fun. But after finishing even thousands, of anglers gather to my PhD that’s exactly what I did, basing celebrate the opening of Harrimans myself in Missoula, Montana and roaming Ranch on the upper Henry’s Fork; there as far as possible in search of fish. As are bonfires, parties, even charitable an obsessive angler who has fished events to benefit the Henry’s Fork extensively throughout New Zealand, I Foundation (an organisation dedicated was curious as to how the North American to protecting the river). Overall the fisheries would compare, and how my community dynamic among anglers was experiences over there might shape my something New Zealand fishers could views and understanding of the New learn from, as it really enhanced the Zealand scene. angling experience. What I discovered was that it was a While travelling I consciously chose little like hitting the reset button: on not to chase bigger fish, knowing that returning to New Zealand I saw our what many would consider a trophy fishery with new eyes; I felt a renewed fish in Montana would qualify as just a passion for it, accompanied by a desire to fairly typical New Zealand trout; instead see it protected for future generations. I sought out what made these fisheries special and unique. Montana, Wyoming and Idaho The hatches were superb: varied and The Western states of the United States flowing consistently from spring, through (Montana, Wyoming and Idaho), much summer and into autumn. Mayflies of like New Zealand, have a world-wide every conceivable variety, stoneflies reputation as trout fishing destinations and salmonflies that rivalled cicadas for of the highest quality. Fishing is a way size, and caddis in such densities that of life here. you had to be consciously careful not to While the fishing differed from New inhale them. Zealand, and generally didn’t provide me I remember one particularly memorable with quite the same depth of experience, spring session, fishing a large foam the angling culture likely exceeded what stonefly in a blizzard to rising westslope we have here. To a certain extent this is a cutthroat trout – not an experience I’m reflection on scale: the sheer number of likely to ever recreate in New Zealand! anglers in the United States, along with The variety of species of trout that could higher density rivers that provide easier be targeted was fascinating, and you access for beginners. would regularly encounter three or four In other ways its fisheries don’t different varieties in one day. At times necessarily engender the secrecy and you could almost choose what type of
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I remember fishing a large foam stonefly in a blizzard to rising westslope cutthroat trout – not an experience I’m likely to ever recreate in New Zealand!
fish to catch based on the kind of water challenge of stalking hyper spooky fish regarded as one of the last true bastions you fished, or your fishing method. Trout in clear water, such as we have in New of wild steelhead and, even given how numbers were typically very high and Zealand, the North American fishery did remote it is, receives significant angling sizes ranged from 6-inch brook trout necessitate a deeper understanding of attention from locals and non-residents to 4lb browns and even a surprise 6lb insect life and provide an incredible array alike. The fishing was extraordinarily Yellowstone cutthroat. of angling opportunities. It was different, tough, with many days of 500+ casts A lot of the angling is done from drift no question, but deeply enjoyable. going entirely unrewarded. boats but, while I never turned down And yet, on the rare occasion when an offer to float a river (usually with an Skeena everything went right and you found allotment of local IPA), my preference IN THE COURSE OF MY TRIP I HAD THE yourself connected to a bright chrome was to wade the smaller streams or hike OPPORTUNITY TO REALISE A LONG-HELD steelhead anywhere from 10 to 18lb into the high mountain lakes – while DREAM and swing the world-famous that seemed hellbent on returning to the singing at the top of my lungs to ward Skeena River system in British Columbia, Pacific Ocean and taking your fly line, off bears! Although I missed the ultimate Canada for steelhead. This system is backing and dignity with it, those long
24 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND HITTING THE RESET BUTTON
fruitless days seemed a distant memory. The wild and brash rivers and the sheer coastal mountain range were not unlike New Zealand and created an incredible setting in which to fly-fish. However, perhaps the greatest impact on me was the way the fishery was managed. In order to ensure local anglers have fair access to a resource with a worldwide reputation and significant non-resident demand, British Columbia introduced a series of progressive management strategies, starting in 1990. The current iteration, dubbed Quality Waters, mandates that many rivers in the catchments are closed to non-resident angling on weekends and that non- resident anglers must pay a per diem fee of either CA$20 (NZ$23) or CA$40 (NZ$45) depending on the class of river they wished to fish during the week (whereas residents simply pay a $15 annual fee to fish these waters any day of the week). Reading about these regulations prior to my trip I was a little hesitant, and yet in practice they appeared to achieve exactly their desired result. On some weekend days we would scout rivers without the rods to find good pools for the following week, and on these days we saw significant numbers of Canadian anglers out enjoying the resource. The imposition on me as a non-resident felt minimal; there were still excellent places to fish on weekends if you chose to, and the daily cost represented a very small part of my overall expense. Seeing the opportunities this North American state I fished I needed to ABOVE TOP: NEW ZEALAND FLY FISHING created for locals, and hearing how purchase a non-resident licence at a price GUIDE, MATT BUTLER, WITH A SIGHT- positively they felt about it, made the comparable to the New Zealand Non- FISHED WYOMING BROWN TROUT regulations seem a small price to pay Resident Whole Season licence (a total as a non-resident to get to enjoy such a of four US states, one Canadian province ABOVE BOTTOM: ISAAK MISCHEFSKI WITH spectacular wild fishery. and one Indian reservation). This totalled A SMALL-STREAM NEW ZEALAND GEM around NZ$1000 for all my licences once A shifting perception of NZ the British Columbian per-diem fees were FAR LEFT TOP: AN EARLY SEASON ON MY RETURN TO NEW ZEALAND IN factored in! MONTANA BROWN TROUT MARCH THIS YEAR, I WAS ASTONISHED AT I never felt aggrieved at the licence HOW DIFFERENTLY I SAW OUR FISHERY fees, or heard complaint from other FAR LEFT BOTTOM: HARRIMAN'S RANCH AFTER A YEAR AWAY FROM IT. non-resident anglers, but it did reinforce ON THE HENRY'S FORK They say you don’t miss something to me the relative value of New Zealand till it’s gone, but I’d take that one step trout fishing. The resident licences were further – sometimes you don’t even truly typically cheaper than ours, but as the see something until it’s gone. One of the North American equivalents of Fish & most striking realisations for me while Game are largely funded through state overseas was simply what good value taxes their licence fee only covers a trout fishing in New Zealand is. Here portion of the management cost. The one licence covers you for over 90% of British Columbian system of managing the country, and just two licences will a pressure-sensitive resource also bring that to 100% – whereas in every resonated with me, as it’s not dissimilar
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They say you don’t miss something till it’s gone, but I’d take that one step further – sometimes you don’t even truly see something until it’s gone.
to the dynamic we’re experiencing some fantastic days, but not once did ABOVE LEFT: A SPECTACULAR in certain backcountry rivers in New I experience the sight that greeted me YELLOWSTONE CUTTHROAT TROUT FROM Zealand, where local anglers are feeling on that first fish. Swaying between MONTANA displaced by increasing amounts of bright orange boulders, a foot below the non-resident angling activity. I believe surface, with water so clear the creature ABOVE RIGHT: BACK HOME, JACK FISHES there is scope to learn from international seemed to be levitating, the visual THE MAEREWHENUA RIVER NEAR KUROW examples in this area, and to look to intensity of this experience was simply implement a system in New Zealand on another level. that places minimal imposition on non- Before casting I stopped and just resident anglers while maximising the watched it feed, realising yet again how opportunity for resident anglers. much I had taken our trout fishery for to protect that resource. We’re all I was struck on my return, too, by granted. Overseas I’d watched great conscious of the environmental the sheer quality of the trout in New trout rampantly devour mayflies off the protection our fisheries require; Zealand. I joked with a good friend in surface, seen bow waves splitting the however, protection takes many forms Montana that I’d likely catch a larger surface as a fish stormed after a streamer and it’s likely that in some areas we are brown trout within a week of being ... but nothing had provided such a also approaching the point where we back in New Zealand than I had in my complete visual experience as watching need to take steps to regulate usage entire year in the States. It took me that fish’s kype break the surface to take in order to ensure that the angling eight days to go fishing, so I lost the my dry fly. New Zealand is blessed with a experience remains at its current levels. bet, but the first fish I caught – a fairly combination of water clarity and size of Overseas examples, such as British typical 5lb brown – topped anything I’d fish that results in an intoxicating trout Columbia’s Quality Waters scheme, can experienced in Montana. fishing experience; one that is, in my aid us in that process, but it also takes But my entire perception of this trout opinion, unparalleled around the world. a willingness from anglers to vary their had been altered by my experiences This is simply to state that New habits and to be prepared to explore overseas. Where previously it would Zealanders should be aware of how truly more widely, rather than just focusing on have been very much par for the course, exceptional our resource is – that our the big-name rivers. The future success after a year away I was taken aback by ‘normal’ is outstanding by international of New Zealand’s trout fishery is very the scale of the fish, and the size of its trout fishing standards and that our much in our hands – we are its greatest kype and fins. I had caught versions of ‘special’ is, well, quite literally the best in ally and advocate. this fish hundreds of times before, but for the world. By protecting in a sustainable fashion the first time I was seeing it in the same the environment we cherish and the way that a non-resident angler on their Conclusion angling it provides we can ensure that first visit to New Zealand would. I had AS ANGLERS LUCKY ENOUGH HAVE THE future generations of New Zealanders sight fished in the US as much as possible BEST TROUT FISHERY IN THE WORLD on and non-residents alike can enjoy the (despite frequently being told that it our doorstep, or visitors lucky enough same astonishing trout fishery that we wasn’t really possible…) and had enjoyed to fish it, I believe we have an obligation enjoy today.
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SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 27 SPECIAL FEATURE
Take A Mate Fishing & pass on your knowledge
28 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND TAKE A MATE FISHING
JACK GAULD - Story & Photos
One of our favourite Kiwi pastimes is at & pass on your knowledge risk of fading away.
I’M NOT TALKING ABOUT THE FISHERY – I’m talking about the fisherman! Freshwater fishing in New Zealand is a huge part of our history and regardless whether you’re a purist fly fisherman or you love just getting out for a flick with the spin rod, we can all agree it’s an activity that’s best enjoyed with company! For one thing, you’ve gotta have someone to confirm the story of the big one that got away ...
But, let’s face it, trout/salmon fisherman are a very secretive bunch; we don’t often share information with other people. We try our hardest to keep our best flies, lures and locations to ourselves and, worst of all, we too often go out without company. But the problem we’re facing is that a vast majority of licence holders in New Zealand are starting to look somewhat elderly. This is not a bad thing in itself; they have a brilliant knowledge of our rivers and fisheries. The issue instead lies with the very few new licence holders who are learning from these wise anglers, ready to replace them one day. The result, as it stands, is that a wealth of knowledge will be lost with this great generation of Kiwi fisherman.
SO – HOW CAN WE AVOID THIS OUTCOME? Introducing more new people to freshwater fishing is key. It doesn’t matter who – your mates, kids, cousins ... even those pesky millennials! If they show some interest in this mighty recreation, ask if they’d like to join you. You never know; you may just find another fishing buddy for life. Speaking from personal experience it’s incredibly hard to get into freshwater fishing here in NZ (especially in the South Island, where we don’t have the luxury of plentiful rainbow trout fisheries). I was lucky; I had several role models, including my grandfather, who took me out any opportunity they had. But here’s a crazy fact for you: when FRIENDS COME IN HANDY, THE CLASSIC I was about 15 years old, and just good PICTURE OF THE PICTURE. enough to be able to go fly fishing by
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 29 SPECIAL FEATURE
ALL SMILES FROM THE BOYS WITH THEIR 'BOWS! myself, I didn’t know any other kids and can safely say that if it hadn’t been So next time you’re out making fantastic around my age in the whole Nelson/ for my older buddies and my grandfather fishing memories with your buddies think Tasman region who could also fly fish or none of us would be into freshwater back to how you were introduced to even who wanted to come along with fishing today. freshwater fishing; I bet you learned from me and learn. By age 18 I could count on So, what if you haven’t got any someone who loved the sport as much as one hand the number of kids that I knew fisherman role models who are willing you do now. So why let your knowledge who could fly fish – and three of them I’d and able to pass on their knowledge, how die with you when you can pass it on to taught myself! can you learn? Simple answer is you don’t someone new? You’ll be allowing them These three were friends from school ... – not properly. to start creating grand memories just like and it was no easy feat. The biggest hurdle We know how hard it is to become a yours ... and thus helping to ensure the was convincing them it was fun to walk up successful angler in NZ; we’ve all heard the future of trout and salmon fishing in New a river all day long, looking for trout that saying that 90% of trout – and salmon – Zealand. didn’t seem to exist because we couldn’t are caught by 10% of the fishers. spot them. The next big hurdle was the cost I know I’m going to sound like a broken TIPS FOR TAKING KIDS. of fishing equipment which I got around record but there’s a very simple answer to There are a few key things that will get by letting them use my gear, but it does help the people who want to learn more kids hooked on fishing – and the absolute take a lot of gear to be able to successfully about freshwater fishing. top of the list is making it fun! fish for trout or salmon. Lastly was our lack First of all, yes – they need to help To help make fishing fun, pick a good of knowledge; we were 18 and we knew themselves by reaching out. Contacting day, pack a big lunch (home baking, lollies stuff-all and found it really hard to find a local Fish & Game office is a great start, etc) and choose a location where you’re good locations to go to. But teaching these but these offices need to have a plan in most likely to see and/or catch a fish, three mates to fish was one of the most place for when this happens! regardless of its size. And if you are lucky rewarding things I’ve ever done and it has And this is where you can assist. Simply enough to catch one, let them choose shaped who I am today, it’s funny how let your local Fish & Game office know whether they want to take it home and eat good it can feel to help others succeed. The that you’re willing to help in any shape it, or let it live and swim away. memories we’ve created spending time or form; because sometimes just a chat I’ve seen it far too often: where Dad or fishing together are priceless. over the telephone is all a new potential Grandad catches a fish in front of a young However I look back on all of this now angler needs to get started. child and, without thinking, kills the
30 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND TAKE A MATE FISHING
creature right in front of them, causing a very traumatic experience which normally results in tears and a child who won’t want to go again! So give them the choice; that way, you create a positive experience and, hopefully, a future fisherman.
TIPS FOR TEACHING MATES. Getting mates to try fishing normally requires some convincing, so bending the truth just a little bit about how far you may have to walk, or how many fish you will have the chance of catching, isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Once you’re out there doing it, I’m sure they’ll be enjoying the experience so much so they’ll forget about the extra 5 km walk you didn’t tell them about. START ‘EM YOUNG AND BUILD THAT Lots of food and banter are also PASSION FOR THE OUTDOORS! required!
TIPS FOR INTRODUCING SOMEONE NEW TO FRESHWATER FISHING. Introducing someone new to freshwater fishing can be very difficult because there’s such a steep learning curve. The simplest way is to take them along with you for just half a day of fishing. During this time just explain the basics; don’t go into the nitty gritty details and definitely avoid rambling-on about political issues. Do your best to spot a few fish and make sure you point them out, so they get to see them too. If you’re lucky enough to hook one you could let them reel it in; chances are they’ll stuff it up but don’t worry – just ITS ALWAYS SAFER IN NUMBERS WHEN SPENDING TIME laugh and say “These things happen – IN THE BACKCOUNTRY AS WELL AS CROSSING RIVERS there’ll always be another one.”
HAVING A MATE UP A TREE DEFINITELY HELPS WHEN SPOTTING CRUISING TROUT!
IT’S EXTREMELY REWARDING INTRODUCING SOMEONE NEW TO FLY FISHING
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 31 SPECIAL FEATURE
It’s All About the Angles DAVID MOATE: Story & Photos Fishing is also called ‘angling’, and this is certainly true when fly fishing for trout: it’s all about the angle.
We all know that a hook works due to angles using available cover to hide your shape and that help it stick in the fish’s mouth and keep movement. This doesn’t mean sneaking along it in place, and our fly rod angles protect lines on hands and knees, but thinking about the from breaking – but what about all the other background … the banks, hills and trees that will important angles we use when fly fishing? Let’s mask your shape and some of your movement; run through some of these to see how they work, next you’ll use patches of vegetation to let you and how they can help us be better anglers. blend in a little to get closer to a trout or hot spot. The first critical angle to work on is the one Usually at some stage you’re going to have to be between you and the trout. Whether spotting out in the open, so have a good look at the water or working the water your ability to see trout and decide on the angle of approach that will best or fishy spots without alerting the whole avoid scaring your quarry. underwater world to your presence is key On a river this is easy; most trout will be to catching more fish. Wearing appropriate facing upstream, and by reading the water you clothing to help mask your presence and can decide which areas will be likely or unlikely movement is a good idea – but it’s of little value to scare a fish. For example, a nice soft edge if you’re sky-lined, or put a shadow on the water, on the side of a pool will need a slow careful or walk straight into a fish’s window of effective approach, keeping a good angle back; while vision. a fast, bouncy run can be approached more The first angles to factor in are when you’re directly because the shallow, broken water approaching or moving along the water’s edge, makes it hard for trout to see you. In still water
ABOVE : DIANNE MOATE LANDING A TROUT IN SHALLOW WATER USING A HIGH ROD ANGLE
32 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND TECHNIQUE
"There’s been just a smudgy shadow, a small light stone disappears for a split second, a flick of the vertical line on the tail or the colour of a pectoral fin." however a fish could approach from either the vertical line on the tail or the colour of a direction, so spend time evaluating the habitat pectoral fin. to guess the most likely angles he could swim Getting the angles right to approach and find from, and approach accordingly. fish is only the beginning of the angle story Now that we’ve done our best to get into though; we now have to catch one. position to fish, or at least see one without being Imagine you’re on a nice stream, with a detected, we may need to change some angles to suitable line and rig; now, what about the spot better. Ideally this will be up ahead of the best presentation to get the job done? While direction we’re moving in – but this is not always accuracy and delicacy are important, again it’s possible, due to light, wind or glare restrictions. the angles that will see your landing net bulging. Try moving your head position, or lean forward, The first angle to consider is the placement of to find the best area and range to see into. the cast to avoid disturbing the fish, the second Getting a bit of extra height often helps, but this is getting the fly in the right location and the can spook trout so be careful. third is getting the flyline in the best area to Another good option is to scan left and right, avoid drag that will negatively affect the fly, locating the best angle of vision, and maintain while reducing mending options and assisting that as you move along. This is good on lakes the strike. Now that’s a lot to consider … so but tricky on rivers, as trout may be looking before you cast, consider what you can do upstream at you; but with careful movements, to simplify the presentation. Often a careful or the sun behind you, many trout can be change of location to avoid multiple currents spotted and caught below you. On days when or obstacles is all that’s required to achieve a fish are challenging to see, requiring a more straightforward cast, but with today’s wary fish detailed analysis of the area you suspect one – or maybe you’re on a large river – this option is in, try a number of micro angle changes may not be available. to provide you with a range of observations Further quick analysis of the situation will to help spot that sneaky fellow. I’ve caught help to decide on the key to success here. If the many trout that I’ve not actually seen; there’s trout is actively feeding then the cast angle to been just a smudgy shadow, a small light prevent spooking is not so critical … but what stone disappears for a split second, a flick of about those pesky currents that require a mend
ABOVE: LOW ROD ANGLES FOR REDUCING WIND INTERFERENCE
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 33 SPECIAL FEATURE
ABOVE: GOOD ROD ANGLES TO DETECT A STRIKE
in the drift to prevent drag or keep the fly in the managed by fly specifications and fancy leader correct current lane? You’ll have to guess the designs, but the real trick is selecting the best best casting angle to do this, using a reach cast casting angle to place a fly in the right area, and to put all sections of the line on the best angle enabling line mending to relieve tension, create a to achieve a good presentation. good presentation and set up the strike. On still You now have worked out your best chance waters with a floating flyline understanding this of getting the fish to eat your fly … but what angle will enable you to fish at the right depth about the strike? Often you have little choice; and retrieve the fly in a more tantalizing way. you just have to hope the fish really wants your It will significantly help with strike detection, fly and will hang on long enough to hook it, or whether using indicators or by feel on the you can do something fancy like a lift or slip retrieve, because you’ll have greater control strike. Often though, you can also set up for the of the angle, reducing unnecessary slack and best strike angle so early detection happens speeding up strike detection. and with minimal effort the hook is pulled into The same angle control can be achieved with the corner of the trout’s mouth, putting you the various sinking lines by understanding how in control, ready to strip in line or get the rod the line works with the leader and fly pattern to create the desired retrieve angle. For example, an intermediate flyline with a longish leader and heavy fly will produce a steady "On still waters with a floating descent, with the fly below the flyline and able to be twitched up and down as it sinks; or a flyline understanding this angle light pattern will descend at a similar rate and can be stripped in at the same level. A fast will enable you to fish at the right sinking line with a short leader and heavy fly depth and retrieve the fly in a more will reach the bottom quickly and is ideal for a fast, aggressive retrieve with a descending tantalizing way." angle, or straight across the bottom. The same line can be used with a buoyant pattern for a very slow retrieve that jiggles the fly up and down above the bottom. angle ready for a run or jump. Incorporating all Understanding and imagining the flyline and three angles – initial presentation, mending and fly pattern angle helps to work flies from shallow the strike – into your fly-casting is a skill worth to deep or vice versa, creating the right angles acquiring and will start to get you into the top to fish in challenging hotspots like drop-offs and 20% of anglers. weedbeds. Knowing the angle your gear is at But before we continue looking at angles to gives you the ability to manipulate the fly action successfully play and land a trout, let’s spend better. You can create all sorts of fish-attracting some time on the angle of the fly in relationship actions, from imitating a scared, darting baitfish to the flyline. I’m not suggesting a course in to a vulnerable, slowly-moving nymph, and trigonometry, but the ability to imagine this anything else you think could work. angle will help present your fly to more trout in a The fly rod is an amazing stick that enables us manner that gets more strikes. to cast flies and land a fish. Fly casting is all about This angle changes with fly pattern, flyline angles to throw the line, in a series of loops, to type and retrieve or drift. With a floating line get the right distance and direction. Changing on moving water it’s the tension on the line that the fly rod angles while casting changes the loop dictates how your fly will drift on the surface trajectory in order to achieve a short or long cast, or sink to a trout’s depth. Some of this can be and is used to create aerial mends like the reach
34 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND TECHNIQUE
cast. Changing a fly rod angle at the end of a cast will also create a specific type of presentation – like a tuck cast to drop the flies close to the end of the fly line to enhance sinking, or to drive a fly into a strong wind. Altering the rod angle when fishing different methods is also a big part of strike detection and successfully hooking a trout. When retrieving streamers, a rod angle pointed down underwater can help to remove slack under the rod tip, keeping the line straighter and reducing interference from wind or waves. Alternatively, putting a slight left or right angle in the rod and line can prevent side slack developing, and help to protect light tippets from a hard strike. When swinging a fly in the current, a rod angle pointing up to create a slight droop in the line that is kept under pressure by the water tension can help with strike detection, and act as a shock A HOOK DOING ITS JOB absorber when a trout grabs the fly and zooms off. During the swing a sideways rod movement and angle will steer the fly across the current. Now that we’ve hooked a trout, angles become even more important as we try to land, usually on fairly light nylon, a strong and fit fish – often in fast water or close to snags. The first part of playing a trout is, unusually, the most hectic as a fresh and startled fish tries to escape; so, immediately after striking, we need to protect the tippet from breaking by putting a decent angle between the line and rod to soak up the energy. This can be done by holding the rod high or to the side until things settle down and we can start to work the fish in, or we need to take urgent steps to prevent the line snagging on rocks or sticks. Hopefully however all is going well and we can now begin to play the trout in by steady and firm side pressure. This is done by changing the rod angle to pull CAREFUL POSITING FOR AN EASIER CAST opposite to the direction the fish is facing or moving; this will ensure the hook is pulled tight into the jaw and that the trout is always working against the rod pressure. Except for the odd burst away your quarry will quickly respond to this pressure – and you can add still more pressure and raise the line angle as water depth decreases and the trout starts to flop about in the shallows. The final steps of landing your catch may include a number of rod and line angle changes to work the fish into a good netting or beaching position. You still need to be mindful of breaking the tippet though, so a right angle of rod and line is recommended, but this can be reduced to add more pressure if required to budge a stubborn trout. Watch going past the right angle when holding the rod up and the fish is getting close, as this can load the point of the rod causing it to break. Congratulations! You’ve now landed a trout on DAVID MOATE PLAYING A TROUT USING THE ROD a fly rod by using a whole bunch of angles. ANGLE TO KEEP IT OUT OF THE WEEDS You are now a successful angler.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 35 SPECIAL FEATURE SPEY CASTING THE TECHNIQUE OF TWO-HAND CASTING RICHARD COSGROVE, Fish & Game
ON A BEAUTIFUL WEEKEND IN EARLY Lakes and the big braided rivers of It’s important to note that the organisers MARCH THIS YEAR, more than 80 anglers New Zealand are now able to be fished did it all off their own back. No fees from all over the world gathered in the by fly fishers using this technique, were charged for the workshop; anglers small North Otago town of Kurow, and and these waterways can withstand just had to cover their own costs of were asked: angling pressure far better than our tiny attending. The anglers leapt at the “Have you ever had dancing lessons?” backcountry streams. opportunity to learn. Not something you would normally How realistic a claim, you say? Can an Christchurch attendee Paul Farrow says ask anglers; the question was put to angler with a Spey rod really cast much “The instructors have broken Spey casting them as they were introduced to further than an angler with single down into three simple components for us the technique of two-hand handed fly rod? And if so, how – the anchor, the loop and the cast – and casting, also known as much further? put it into a package we can understand. Spey casting. It’s Well ... the world I’ve been Spey casting for a number of Spey casting is record for longest cast years, but basically haven’t really known viewed as more of incredibly was made during the what I’ve been doing. an aerial ballet than beautiful to watch: Fly Casting World “I learnt more on the first day than I have the normal single- Championship in in the last ten years of flogging my fly rod.” handed fly casting large loops of line are 2018 by Tommy common throughout Aarkvisla from New Zealand. It’s fed out over the water Norway, with a incredibly beautiful and through the air – 15’1’’ Spey rod; the to watch: large cast measured 64.5 loops of line are fed hence the reference to metres (211.4 feet)! out over the water About 45% of and through the air – dancing lessons. anglers visiting hence the reference to New Zealand fish in dancing lessons. Southland and Otago, and Fly fishers in New they largely fish our smaller Zealand have traditionally used streams. If we can convince a single-hand rod, and it’s become anglers to shift to Spey casting, then the incredibly popular – with the result that angling pressure can be spread, leaving a lot of anglers are fishing our pristine the fishery as a whole better-off. backcountry rivers; waterways which Freshwater ecologist Rasmus can’t sustain too much angling pressure. Gabrielsson says “It opens up This increased number of anglers has opportunities for people to hit big diminished the enjoyment for Kiwis and pieces of braided and larger rivers that visitors alike. aren’t busy environments but hold a Experts say that while seeming more great fish population.” difficult, Spey casting is in fact relatively A shared load on the fishery will mean easy for first-timers to learn, with the a better angling environment, not only for added benefit that it allows anglers to anglers but for the fish as well. cast further. The technique has been used This desire to learn more about Spey overseas for generations; but is only now casting and how to master it drew in more making inroads into New Zealand. than 80 anglers to the free workshop on Named after the River Spey in Scotland, the lower Waitaki River. Organiser of the where the method originated in the mid- two day event Carl McNeil, founder of 19th century, it enabled anglers using Epic fly rods, says “The idea was to get a 22-foot greenheart rods to cast the big bunch of guys who wanted to learn about Scottish water. Nowadays of course, such how to cast with a two-handed rod, and big rods are not required; 12 - 15 foot the way to learn is to bring in the experts’. rods made from modern materials can Such was the quality of tutors from achieve more those old wooden versions the United States and Australia, such as ever could. And with bigger casts and Brian Henderson, George Cook and Simon bigger flies, more waterways are available Gawesworth, that anglers were happy to to fly anglers. travel from all over the country to attend.
36 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND TECHNIQUE
Fish & Game Chief Executive Martin for a repeat performance next year. demystify the technique. Taylor says “Workshops like these for McNeil says “Kurow is the perfect spot “It can be daunting trying something anglers really show us that we don’t have to hold a fishing workshop; we have ready new, especially for us anglers as we hunt to stick to what we’ve always done. We access to long and wide stretches of for that elusive trout. We often stick to can now seek out waterways that are less water where anglers can spread out but what has worked in the past, rather than crowded and have less pressure and get still be able to practice together, learning trying something new; sometimes it can more enjoyment out of our sport. off each other. The accommodation is take some convincing to get an angler to “Anglers, both Kiwis and visitors, inexpensive and there are plenty of try a new method. have to be aware that there are more other waterways nearby where, after the “Spey casting though, is relatively easy waterways available in New Zealand than workshop, the anglers can try out for real to learn and opens up our lakes and big just those beautiful backcountry streams the techniques they’ve learnt.” rivers to us as anglers. that are typically shown online or in McNeil has been a long-time advocate “Don’t be mistaken by thinking it’s a magazines. And the fishing in our lakes for Spey casting, bringing well known South Island-only technique,” McNeil and big rivers is pretty exciting.” international Spey angler April Vokey to says. “Spey is a method that works well Such was the success of the inaugural Southland in 2016 in an effort to raise the in both islands, especially those plentiful event that the organisers are gearing up profile of the fishing method and also to big North Island rivers!”
SPEY CASTING STUDENTS PRACTICE THEIR TECHNIQUES ON THE WAITAKI RIVER
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 37 FISHING 101 Fishing Do’s & Don’ts Fishing is full of good stuff and bad. Top people and downright muppets!
Such is the economic and social milieu of this great pastime; it brings all walks of life together under one umbrella. Thing is, some people just need to be told what to do and what not to do. There are some of most popular do’s and don’ts. By Adam Royter #1 - Do: LEARN TO TIE GOOD KNOTS. #4 - Don’t: #6 - Don’t: Or just one knot … a uni knot. This is DON’T GO TROUT FISHING WITH YOUR DON’T WAIT FOR THE WEATHER TO where the majority of fish get lost. HI-VIS WORK CLOTHES ON. BECOME MORE TO ‘YOUR’ LIKING. Ask Dr. Google about the uni knot!! The most solid reason we came up with The weather is the weather. The fish are for this is because it makes you look like already wet, so get off your backside and you’re bunking work. Oh, and the trout go fishing whenever you can! It’ll quite will probably see you coming from the often surprise you how good the fishing neighbouring province! can be when the weather is at its worst!
#2 - Don’t:
#5- Do: DON’T CRY LIKE A KID WHEN YOU ASK AS MANY QUESTIONS AS YOU CAN LOSE A FISH. ABOUT FISHING. It makes you look like a right goose, and Not to the point of sounding like a weirdo #7 -Do: it’s a total mood killer. Suck it up and stalker – but ask the right ones at the right ALWAYS TRY TO KEEP FISH IN THE move on…quickly. time. Questions are good – answers are WATER AT ALL TIMES IF YOU PLAN ON what you get in return. Some are good, RELEASING THEM. some bad but all questions are useful! Or if you want to see what it feels like #3 - Do: to be a fish that’s been caught, hold SHARPEN YOUR HOOKS. your breath for as long as the fish is Always check your hook point after out of the water. See how you go with catching a fish and/or getting a snag. If that! Chances are your flabby and unfit you don’t, you might as well be fishing carcase will fail miserably and you’ll with a pencil as a hook. Checking takes be reaching for the angina tablets in no 10 seconds … come on, people! time. Do the right thing and think about Sharpen up ya game! the fish!
38 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND OPENING WEEKENDDO'S AND RITUALS DON'TS
#11 - Do: "It’s not just the pros who catch TRY TO USE LIGHTER LINE WITH ALL and kill fish – we do our share FISHING TYPES. of it as well, and every fish is The lighter the line, the less visible it is and the more bites you get. valuable to the resource. Simple! Limit your catch, don’t catch your limit!"
movement to fish. Some fish use it to feed and others run from it. It’s all about knowing your target species and working out who’s who in the pecking order – and where!
#12 - Don’t: #15 - Don’t: DON'T LEAVE FISH TO FIND FISH. DON'T ALWAYS USE FLUOROCARBON #8 Don’t: That’s a classic old-school rule. LEADER MATERIAL. DON'T LEAVE FISH TO DIE IN A CHILLY And it’s true! If you’re catching a few and Yes – it has its place, but only in clear BIN OR BUCKET IF YOU ARE GOING TO you know of a spot that ‘might’ be better, water on a bright sunny day. Otherwise EAT THEM. you’re more often than not better off you can use good old nylon to great Brain-spike and bleed them on the spot. staying where you are. effect. The knots you tie in nylon will act This is the best way to prepare your fish Murphy’s Law applies, my fat-fingered more consistently over a fishing period. for the table. You’ll be totally amazed friends! Fluorocarbon is like a F1 car - any sort at the difference it makes to the taste of of slight mishap and aggressive activity your fish if you get the blood out of them can and will weaken your knot. This asap! And while you’re at it, add some ice! results in a break that seemingly came from nowhere…you know the one I’m talking about! And if it’s abrasion you’re thinking about right now, forget it. Nylon is as good and, in some cases, better at abrasion resistance!
#13 - Do: ALWAYS TRY TO MIX YOUR LURES UP. Never stick with one type or shape or colour, regardless of what the guy in the #9 - Do: pub said. I don’t care how local he is, it’s REGULARLY CHECK YOUR REELS ARE UP probably rubbish info anyway because TO THE JOB OF FISHING. you didn’t buy him a beer! If you don’t check until you’re actually Choice is the key. Fish change their minds planning a trip, there’s a good chance (feeding patterns) a lot. You need to do you won’t get it back from repairs in the same. time. Alternatively, just maintain them properly and you’ll never have the issue #14 - Do: to start with! #16 - Do: #10 - Don’t: TRY TO COLLECT RUBBISH FROM THE DON'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ WATERWAYS WHENEVER YOU CAN. (INCLUDING THIS). It makes a big difference to how we, as Forums are good but only to a point anglers, are perceived by other users, where you get too much input from and it sets a great precedent when they people who don’t know jack about see you doing it. It takes ten minutes fishing. You just gotta know when LOOK AT THE MOON TO SEE WHERE IT IS of your day, and makes the place look to let it go and make your own way. AND WHAT IT’S DOING. better for all – even the morons that #keyboardworrier The moon is nothing but light and water made the mess!
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-EIGHT 39 FISHING 101
#17 - Don’t: #18 Do: DON'T EVER DO THE DRAG OF YOUR DO EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO GET A KID REEL UP WHEN THE FISH IS CLOSE TO OR TWO INTO FISHING AT LEAST ONCE IN BEING LANDED. YOUR LIFE. The shorter the line, the less stretch It’s all about the sport and the numbers. it has and the more pressure you’re If we want fishing to continue the putting on your knots and hook. As the way it is or even better in the future, fight nears the end, the fish is much then we’re going to need all hands on more tired than at the start, already deck. Fight the good fight and get kids giving you the advantage. A different involved. rod angle to help steer the fish will help though – and always keep the fish 19 - Don't in the water. Never try to lift it out DON’T EVER TAKE MORE THAN YOU NEED. with the line. Fish weigh NOTHING in It’s easy to do in the excitement of it the water and EVERYTHING out of it. all ... but stop and think! It’s not just Remember, you’re only ever fighting the pros who catch and kill fish – we do the fish’s ability to swim, not how our share of it as well, and every fish much it weighs. is valuable to the resource. Limit your catch, don’t catch your limit! Well that was sort of fun! There are some points there that need a little brain power to properly absorb and others that you can’t wait to use on your mates who are ‘that guy’. Be my guest!
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FISHING GUIDES
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40 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND LASTEST GEAR - 2019/2020 SEASON
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KEY FEATURES • SCS Drag (Sealed Carbon System) • One Revolution Drag Knob with numbered and detented settings • Large arbour for fast line pick-up • Concave arbour for greater strength and capacity • Cold forged and machined aero grade aluminium full frame construction • Minimal porting for classic look and heavier balance • Machined and anodized aluminium hub and ergonomic handle • Easy conversion from left- to right-hand retrieve Colours: Bronze, Black/Gunmetal For more info: flytackle.co.nz
MORAKNIV COMFORT FILLET KNIFE
Morakniv - Since 1891. All Morakniv knives are made, in Mora, Sweden. A Morakniv knife is designed to stay extremely sharp. The steel is treated in a secret process that ensures every knife has a blend of qualities - sharpness, strength, flexibility etc - tailored to its purpose. Their Comfort Fillet knife features a long, semi- flexible Swedish stainless steel blade. Patterned high friction grip for safe and efficient use. Secure, easy-clean sheath with two interchangeable belt clips. RRP$59.99. For more info: e.ampro.co.nz
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 41 FRESH WATER FISHING
DRY FLY ANGLERS REJOICE WITH SAGE’S NEW TROUT LL
Sage nods to tradition yet improves performance with the introduction of the TROUT LL fly rod family. Through blank taper optimization and specialized length offerings, the TROUT LL is perfect for wade fishing, closer casts, small flies, and light tippets. “KonneticHD technology allows us to design this rod to have a supple tip to maximize tippet protection yet have a smooth, easy-loading mid- section to increase feel and feedback throughout the casting stroke,” said Peter Knox, Sage R&D design engineer. “The TROUT LL’s delicate touch and TOPO4GPS, medium action are a dry fly GARMIN READY TOPO MAPS anglers dream.” The TROUT LL’s classic TOPO4GPS relaunched early this year with a appearance starts with Micro-SD card product loaded with richly detailed the mahogany blank topo maps of NZ, ready for use with most map- highlighted with bronze capable Garmin GPS units, at only RRP$79.99. primary thread wraps and This ready-to-go and easy-to-use product not gold trim wraps. Each model has Fuji ceramic only includes detailed LINZ mapping data, but also stripper guides and the hard-chromed snake guides and valuable DoC information such as confirmed and tip-tops. A walnut wood insert with bronze up-locking reel seat pairs nicely maintained huts, tracks, campsites, hunting block with the super plus, snub-nose, half-wells cork handle. Each rod comes in a boundaries and more. Those wishing to view the tan rod bag with brown logo in a brown powder-coated aluminium rod tube. maps on their PC or Mac, or use them on a Garmin The TROUT LL is available from 3 through 6-weights in lengths ranging from that doesn't accept memory-cards, can now download 7’9” to 9’ and each model will retail for $1299. them for only $40 - allowing you to plan your trip on For more info: flytackle.co.nz PC/Mac and send the map to your GPS using Garmin's BaseCamp software. See www.topo4gps.co.nz for The Orvis PRO Vest is designed to carry more information. Existing users of the Micro-SD ORVIS PRO VEST everything you need, but is very light product are eligible for a discount - email and breathes well for comfort. [email protected] to find out more! It is built of light, abrasion-resistant nylon with a DWR coating. The fitted design is built to conform to the body. VERTEX HUNTER JACKET There are 18 pockets - 10 exterior, 6 interior, and 2 rear. Features include The Vertex jacket leads the Spika multiple daisy chain gear loops, elastic range as our most technical jacket to loops to attach tippet bars, an adjustable date. closure that slides vertically for a custom Featuring a soft and quiet fit, padded collar for comfort, internal exterior and waterproof webbing hanging loop, and a tri-ring interior which utilises Spika’s net holder centered on the rear yoke. HYDROSHIELD waterproof Weight; 500gm in size medium. Buy online at www.kilwell.co.nz and have membrane technology, it delivered freight free to your favourite Kilwell dealer. From RRP $439.99 keeping you dry in the (Accessories in picture not included) most extreme conditions. The exterior has been SCIENTIFIC ANGLERS ABSOLUTE FLAT treated with DWR to MONO SHOOTING LINE ensure that water runs off the surface of the Scientific Anglers Absolute Flat Mono Shooting Line is the fastest jacket, adding to its shooting mono available. hydrophobic abilities. The line has a rectangular profile which reduces line twist and The jacket features increases grip in your fingers. SA Absolute Flat Mono's hardness is a secure chest pocket, tailored per size for optimal shooting with low memory in two hand warmer any condition. Available in four true to line weight pockets and two secure sizes, each line is individually coloured to easily front pockets to ensure be tracked at distance. Absolute Flat Mono is whatever you need to to available in 30m reel fill spools. carry is within reach. For more information or buy online at For more info: www.kilwell.co.nz and have it shipped freight spika.co.nz free to your favourite Kilwell dealer. RRP $29.99
42 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND LASTEST GEAR - 2019/2020 SEASON
TECHNICAL EURO NYMPH LEADER
For 2020 RIO is introducing a new Technical Euro Nymph leader that features an ultra-thin butt diameter that is incredibly sensitive to the subtlest of takes. Each leader finishes with a 22" section of coloured sighter material to aid the detection of takes, and then ends with a RIO tippet ring - allowing anglers to attach their choice of tippet. Two options are available - with alternating black/white sighter, and alternating pink/ yellow sighter material. For more info: flytackle.co.nz
RIO TECHNICAL TROUT
For delicate presentations and small flies to technical feeders at range. The Technical Trout line features a long, fine front taper for the lightest of presentations and delicacy and is the ideal choice of line when fishing dry flies, nymphs, soft hackles and emergers to tricky eaters at distance. The line has a long head and back taper to increase loop control when carrying long lengths, and for making precise casts to rising fish, while the weight distribution makes it easy to turn over long leaders for technical feeders at range. This line is available in both WF and DT formats. For more info: flytackle.co.nz
RIO EURO NYMPH SHORTY
RIO’S Euro nymph Shorty is an ultra-thin, super-sensitive fly line designed for Euro nymphing. The line is deliberately made short (20 feet) so it can be added to the front end of a regular fly line utilizing the thin welded loop on each end. The idea is that anglers can fish their normal fly fishing style with their regular trout line, and when they come to a run they want to fish Euro nymph style, they simply loop the Shorty on and start nymphing. Quick, easy and no need for an extra rod or reel. For more info: flytackle.co.nz
RIO INTOUCH 3D MOW TIPS
RIO’S InTouch 3D MOW Tips are powerful, multi-density tips designed to cast large flies. Each tip is built with a seamless blend of different densities that ensures the smoothest transition of energy when casting, and the very best depth control when fishing. These tips are ideal additions to any Skagit style line or head, and particularly excel on multi- density Skagit lines like RIO's Skagit Max GameChanger. All 3D MOW tips are built on RIO’s ConnectCore for ultra-low stretch performance. Each 3D MOW tip is 10ft long, with 3ft of the first and second sinking sections, and 4 feet of the fastest sinking section. A color coded sleeve is welded on to the rear end of the tip to identify the weight, and printed with all the relevant information. For more info: flytackle.co.nz
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 43 LATESTFRESH GEAR WATER FISHING
ORVIS CLEARWATER 3-WEIGHT 10' FLY ROD PRO HUNTER BACKPACK
FEATURES • Waterproof zips • Padded straps • Quick release belt • 25L capacity • 2 tie point strips • Buttstock holder • Firearm compatible pocket with dual clip With a long list of integral characteristics, system our generous 25L capacity Pro Hunter • RealTree APG® camo with firearm carrying capabilities is your print The new Orvis Clearwater 3-Weight 10' Fly Rod is complete hunting pack. • Blaze orange rain cover specifically designed to enhance European (Czech) Integrated hydration and ventilation • Padded waist belt nymphing tactics. systems, adjustable sliding sternum and • Hydro compatible Its light sensitivity and reach offer the perfect rod waist straps and a deluxe airflow padded (Includes 2L Bladder ) for maintaining contact with a multiple-fly nymphing back system makes for the ultimate day • Non-rip fabric rig. Given the new popularity of this technique, pack. Dimensions: 300W x 500H x 230D. the Clearwater 103-4 coupled with a S.A.Mastery Weight: 1.45kg. For more info: spika.co.nz Competition Nymph line is an exceptional outfit offering reduced line sag and better contact for quicker reaction to subtle takes. The new Clearwater® ALLROD CASE AND ALLFLY SERIES Rod Series is not just a cosmetic facelift, but a complete overhaul from the ground up by Orvis U.S.A. Vermont rod designers. Everything has changed except the value. It's still the best fly rod you can buy for the money, but with a significant upgrade in performance and looks in a comprehensive series that covers every angler from small stream addicts to Skagit-slinging two-handers. Each rod was designed with a purpose-built profile and action to handle the kind of fishing the rod model would be traditionally used for, from medium-action small stream rods to medium-fast freshwater rods and fast-action saltwater rods. Orvis Clearwater rods are proudly designed in The Patent Pending AllRod Case and AllFly Series is a hybrid system Manchester, Vermont, USA. and have a 25-year allowing you to have multiple choice length rods, line weights and guarantee - To repair or replace no matter the reason. action all out of one case. Buy online at www.kilwell.co.nz and have it This making it one of the most versatile options on the market delivered freight free for you to collect from your give you access to a range of styles and formats of fishing. Not being favourite Kilwell dealer. RRP $379.99 limited by your gear is key and when the conditions change and you want that heavier weight rod or extra 1ft it’s all in the case ready and GET SEEN BY 65,000 FRESH WATER waiting. The system is simple with one Base section being the platform FISHING ENTHUSIASTS and three rod sections butting together in the form of either a 5/6 weight or 7/8 weight. Additional to this a 1ft extender can be added to either weight rod. Or if you are searching for a custom weight all parts are interchangeable. No corners were cut in the testing, design TO FIND OUT HOW TO GET and construction of the AllFly and we sourced the highest modulus YOUR NEW GEAR FEATURED materials available. The Base is made from a 40T Carbon blank dressed in Fish & Game Magazine's with the highest quality European cork grip and fitted with an ALPS Latest Gear column contact: triangle reel seat. Each blank is also handmade with 40T laser-cut [email protected] carbon and constructed in a helical fashion so that the blank stays 027 22 999 68 light, crisp and super strong. Finished with Silicon Carbide stripper Limited spaces available guides and titanium coated snake guides. Find out more at www.Trycd.com
44 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND LASTEST GEAR - 2019/2020 SEASON
MSR ZOIC 2 TENT
A light (under 2kg), spacious, ultra-breathable tent for THE AMPLITUDE SMOOTH SERIES OF LINES two, MSR's new Zoic 2 offers a lot of extra space for stretching out and storing gear. Great for first-time and warm-weather backpackers, the The Amplitude Smooth series of lines are, simply put, the Zoic can go from cycle touring to tramping into remote highest-performance smooth fly lines in the world. tarns with ease, and its easy-pitch design allows for more With up to five times less drag and eight times the durability time to hang out with friends or to enjoy the scenery. Two of traditional lines, this will change the way you look at fly line doors and two gear lofts make for convenient access and performance. The conventional wisdom in fly fishing is that gear storage. Proven MSR design geometry is matched there’s no such thing as a "do it all" freshwater line. We have with light, strong aluminum poles and long-lasting Xtreme something to say about that. Shield coating. RRP$799.99. The Amplitude Smooth Infinity has the power to bomb For more info: e.ampro.co.nz out streamers, yet retains delicacy for dry flies. It mends like an absolute dream, and delivers flies at all distances. Built a SAGE’S NEW TROUT SPEY HD half-size heavy, with a long head and substantial front taper, it’s MAKES CASTS EFFORTLESS perfect for New Zealand fishing. There’s a reason we call it the Infinity: there is no end to what you’ll be able to do with it. Trout Spey is now a common method for anglers Buy online at www.kilwell.co.nz and have it shipped freight searching for trout, so Sage introduced the TROUT SPEY free to your favourite Kilwell dealer. RRP $179.99 HD to capitalize on technology tailored to Trout Spey lines in development and to make the cast effortless.
“Featuring KonneticHD technology and a new fast-action, the TROUT SPEY HD series brings ease to lightweight Spey techniques,” said Sage R&D design engineer Peter Knox. “A more stable tip and smooth power transfer better handles Trout Spey specific lines for an improved casting experience.” Five models from 10’3” to 11’3” excel with a variety of Trout Catch a feed, not a Spey lines currently offered in the 200-350 grain size range, and its action is designed for Skagit and Scandi style casting freshwater pest techniques with trout-appropriate sized flies. Freshwater pests, including didymo and lake snow, could The TROUT SPEY HD has a conifer blank colour highlighted with squeeze the life out of our country’s most precious rivers Dijon primary thread wraps and tan trim wraps. The Vera wood and lakes. They can be spread by a single drop of water. Help insert with down-locking reel seat combines nicely with the super protect your favourite fishing spot. AlwaysCHECK, CLEAN, DRY any fishing equipment and clothing that comes into plus, full-wells cork handle with decorative composite accent contact with the water, between every waterway, every time. rings and a composite cork fighting butt. The hard-chromed snake guides and tip top and tangle-free, Fuji ceramic stripper guides CHECK CLEAN DRY round out the features. BIOSECURITY.GOVT.NZ/CHECK-CLEAN-DRY Available in 1-4-weights in varying lengths, each model will come in a tan rod bag in a tactical green rod tube and retail for $1399.00. For more info: flytackle.co.nz
August 2019
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 45 SPECIAL FEATURE
LACKING A FEMALE VOICE ...
VICKI WHYTE: EARLIER THIS YEAR HISTORY WAS What prompted you to stand for election? MADE WHEN A FISH & GAME COUNCIL I have always been strongly involved with MEETING WAS CHAIRED FOR THE FIRST fishing and hunting. TIME BY A WOMAN, CENTRAL SOUTH I am strongly involved with our local ISLAND COUNCILLOR CHANAIDE Teviot Angling Fishing Club. FULTON FROM ASHBURTON. We as a club were highly disappointed that the Lower Clutha River below Clyde In the fishing edition of the Fish Dam was being poorly managed let alone & Game magazine last year, we any enhancement being done. discussed how to get more women Salmon numbers especially have involved in the sport of fishing. drastically decreased, we decided we Which poses a question, not only do needed to have a voice in our we know we need more women in Fish & Game management. our sport, but we need more women Guess who got the As a solo in positions of power making job :-). Ten years-ago decisions about the future of our I first stood for mother hunting and great sport. election with the gathering are more vital to Throughout all thirteen Fish & Otago Fish and Game Councils in New Zealand we Game Council, me than ever now. Gone are have 137 councillors but only two this was a huge ABOVE: of them are women - Otago’s Vicki challenge for me, the days of waiting for your VICKI WHYTE Whyte and Central South Island’s as I was in a male man (if you have one) to ON THE Chanaide Fulton. dominated world. CLUTHA RIVER Clearly this is a poor performance, I rose to the bring home the meat. so it is something that we need to challenge as I believed In this day and age improve on and improve quickly. the organisation I believe this is a skill We asked Vicki and Chanaide their needed to have a woman's woman should embrace. thoughts on this imbalance. perspective and some common As Kiwis we are (especially sense. myself) resilient and determined, as woman we are selfless and stubborn. What suggestions do you have that I myself given the choice of dirty could get more women involved in Fish processed meat against clean and & Game? healthy, just been running, swimming As a solo mother hunting and gathering or flying would choose this option are more vital to me than ever now. Gone every time. are the days of waiting for your man (if you The health benefits and affordability have one) to bring home the meat. alone are all positive. The challenge of
46 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND just doing it is actually a real thrill. In regards to assisting educating women in this way of life, I am in the process of gaining approval from Fish and Game as a collective to help with this form of education. "Woman back to the Wilderness" packs will soon be developed; these will encompass all the teaching aspects of hunting, the appropriate clothing (on a budget) the rules of firearms, gaining their firearm licence and having an experienced buddy to hunt with. In the Otago region, Fish & Game staff run fishing classes for Woman, which have amazing support.
What would you say to other women thinking of standing for election? I would most definitely encourage other woman to sit at the council table. The male councillors will give you the utmost respect. Stand up and be counted, stand ABOVE: up and be heard. Help us to protect the CHANAIDE FULTON, RIGHT, CHAIRS THE CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND FISH & GAME COUNCIL future of our waterways, our habitats MEETING, SUPPORTED BY BERNADETTE DOLAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE JAY GRAYBILL and our wetlands for our children and all future generations. Governance is a great platform in which we can make a difference. Advice "Since I was from myself to you -you don't need to be a young girl, a professor or a rocket scientist for this role, you just need passion in what you fishing at the believe in and loads of patience. "Governance is enriched when woman MacKenzie lakes are seen as equals and given equal and canals had responsibilities". always been an CHANAIDE FULTON: enjoyable part What prompted you to stand for of our annual election? Since I was a young girl, fishing at the family holidays." MacKenzie lakes and canals had always been an enjoyable part of our annual family holidays. The passion for which has continued to grow and we now find ourselves in the McKenzie country at least once a month doing what we love, fishing in the great outdoors! We count ourselves fortunate enough in New Zealand to have a number of world class fisheries and we are able to utilise these at such affordable prices. That is with perspective to other world class fisheries. It is important to ensure that Fish and LEFT: CHANAIDE FULTON Game protects these habitats for future AFTER A SUCCESSFUL COLD generations. DAY ON THE CANALS
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 47 This played a major part in standing for council, as I wanted to be part of making a positive difference to our river and lake environments. Undoubtedly, the efficient operation of Fish and Game relies on its ability to act in the best interest of its license holders and key stakeholders. Being part of the CSI council would enable us to take proactive steps to forge enduring relationships with some our key stakeholders such as the agriculture industry. I wanted to bring a fresh perspective to council to help us embrace the relentless change we are encountering on a regular basis, work alongside and support the staff in performing their duties.
What suggestions do you have that could get more women involved in Fish & Game? Fish & Game are taking a number of futuristic steps to get more women and younger generations involved in hunting and fishing. These include shooting and fishing classes, take a kid fishing etc. As we continue to collectively come If you have up with initiatives such as these, we are any ideas that you confident that the results will reflect the increase in women and younger believe Fish & Game generation involvement. As a council, we are always open to could benefit in getting more new and innovative ideas. women involved, we strongly If you have any ideas that you believe Fish & Game could benefit and performance. Diversity not only encourage you to contact in getting more women involved, we includes individuals with a range strongly encourage you to contact your of skills and experiences but also a your local Fish and Game local Fish and Game council. balance between gender and age. council. One of the team will be more than Fish & Game lacks gender diversity happy to hear from you. and that’s why we need more women on our councils. What would you say to other women I strongly encourage women, anyone If you think you have something to thinking of standing for election? for that matter, who is passionate about give, don’t hold back, take a leap of Diversity is important for all councils! what they do, to stand for your local faith and I am sure the experience will Diversity drives better decision making Fish and Game council. be a rewarding one.
FIND FISH AND GAME ONLINE:
facebook.com/FishandGameNZ https://fishandgame.org.nz
@fishandgamenz twitter.com/fishandgamenz
48 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 49 NEW ZEALAND FISH AND GAME COUNCIL
Let Me Introduce Myself ...
The New Zealand Parliament expects Fish & Game New Zealand to properly look after fish and game management, and oversee the effective administration of our sports fish and game resources over its 12 regions. To do this the New Zealand Fish and Game Council has a number of formal statutory powers, but the need for the whole organisation to work co-operatively in the interests of anglers and hunters is just as important.
The NZ Fish and Game Council is not the NZC, concentrating more effort into some separate being – in many ways, addressing ‘on-the-ground/coalface’ issues, it’s a creature of the regions. The regions including highlighting the failings of some nominate every one of the 12 New external councils in addressing the many Zealand councillors, who then have to take environmental issues that impact on our a national overview in their deliberations, natural resource. while also acting as the main link between the NZ Council and the regions. ONE FUN FACT? Last year, elections took place for Listening to the early morning whistle of Fish and Game Councils, and some new mallard duck wings as they swoop over the Councillors took office on the New Zealand pond, hearing Canada Geese honking as Fish and Game Council. they fly up the tussock valley, watching my gun-dog working on a scent, spotting the To introduce them, we asked them three rise of a trout in the bubble line and hearing questions the scream of a reel are among the many 1. Why did you stand for office? reasons that I am so passionate about Fish ANDY HARRIS 2. Where do you see Fish & Game in five & Game and the resource it protects. years? 3. And tell us one ‘fun fact’ about ANDY HARRIS yourself. NOEL BIRCHALL I’ve had an active interest in both hunting Having been involved with managing and fishing – previously as a youth I had our sport for hunters and fishers for over been introduced to game bird hunting 50 years, I believed I had something to by my father but this lapsed in favour contribute at the national level. of other pursuits until arriving in South In five years I would like to see Fish & Game Westland in 1981 when I bought a gun, managing the sport for the users and by the and later a fly rod, and was able to users and being the lead NGO standing up involve my own young family. for the natural resource that we depend on. I hope that in five years we will be a financially robust, effective, and cohesive ONE FUN FACT? organisation, acting in the best interests of The older you get, the less the importance of resident licence holders. Angler and hunter the numbers taken becomes, and the greater satisfaction are crucial to our success and the satisfaction you get from introducing the achieving this means ensuring that anglers next generations into our sport. and hunters have access to adequate populations of fish and game birds and can go out with a reasonable prospect of success [and a licence which is deemed to be suitably priced]. If we get this right, LINDSAY LYONS issues around recruitment and licence- (CHAIRMAN) holder demographics should improve. We will also be mindful that we need to continue to be perceived by the public as During my time working as a environmental champions, and conscious backcountry guide I was witnessing the that we need to maintain a public mandate insidious creep of exclusive capture of for our pursuits, especially hunting, and be our backcountry rivers and streams, and seen as responsible and moderate around recognised the potential of a councillor the use of firearms. position within Fish & Game as a means to address this burgeoning problem. ONE FUN FACT? Fish & Game has become a more up-to- Possibly ironic rather than funny? But date and streamlined organisation with the Canada goose population in my part all regions working collaboratively with NOEL BIRCHALL of the world has arguably increased
50 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND since Fish & Game was relieved of the obligation to monitor and control them, ROY KNIGHT following lobbying of the then Minister of I stood for North Canterbury Fish & Game Conservation by Federated Farmers. They’re as the region needed a new direction; a still fun to hunt – at any time – no licence is fresh approach. required outside the game season. Policies needed revisiting and, with my management and business skills and an already close relationship with Fish and Game, I felt it was my time to make a difference. After all, Canterbury has always been my backyard of choice for all my recreation, so I put my best foot forward, and the rest is history. I see Fish & Game having a fresh face – a fresh look, and an all-new approach to servicing its licence holders. I see it also having the ability to reach and service all generations; Fish & Game will be a NIGEL JUBY leading climate and habitat crusader in the sustainability of our precious resources. access we have. Unfortunately, climate change, land-use intensification and ONE FUN FACT? urbanisation continue to reduce our fish The largest salmon ever caught was and game resources. To deal with this, we 126 pounds. ANDY HARRIS have two main options, both unpalatable. DAN ISBISTER 1. We can sell fewer licenses – this requires that either the organisation DAN ISBISTER reduces in size, potentially triggering a Experiencing many different fisheries downward spiral of revenue reduction, both here and around the world sparked or continually increases license fees in a my interest in becoming involved in the fight to maintain our budgets and hold management of our fishing and hunting onto the new normal. resources. I first became involved as an 2. Collectively continue to reduce our Honorary Ranger, which then evolved expectations in terms of experience – into the governance of Fish & Game. selling more licenses to more anglers I hope to see Fish & Game become an and shooters, who then compete for organisation that all our licence holders can a reduced resource. This means that be proud of, with increasing participation in we all need to become content with our sport, especially by young people using less – smaller fish, fewer ducks, more and enjoying our resources. interactions with other users. We have seen this over the last 30 years, but it ONE FUN FACT? will continue. In a previous life, I was a fly fishing guide The third option, superficially for a wilderness salmon lodge in Alaska. appealing but one that most regions I’m also an internationally-qualified fly appear to be structurally weak in, is ROY KNIGHT casting instructor. to find sources of revenue other than license sales. I’d like to see us embracing some BILL O’LEARY NIGEL JUBY technology in terms of digital licences I have a long-standing interest in game I have always believed that Fish and and a Fish & Game app that involves management, and experience with Game stands and falls on three basic license holders more interactively. statutory processes. I also expect to principles, independent of license Overall, I believe that we will continue have some spare time in my anticipated holders’ shooting and fishing preferences: to be the reliable, regionally based retirement. 1. Habitat protection and restoration organisation that we currently are. We are resolutely advocating 2. Access in the interests of licence holders, 3. Participation. ONE FUN FACT? seeking common ground and working I wanted to support our staff on I am the national councillor from the Fish collaboratively with major stakeholders in delivering on these principles in my region. & Game region with the most shooters – the utilisation of our national resource – For me, the big challenge of the next but I’m the only national councillor who including Federated farmers, DoC, Forest five years is to maintain what habitat and doesn’t shoot! and Bird, NZ Game Animal Council etc .
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 51 NEW ZEALAND FISH AND GAME COUNCIL
among the outdoor community but on a wider front within NZ and internationally.
ONE FUN FACT? One of the greatest parts of being involved as a councillor is that I now get to spend time with a group of like-minded outdoors people from all over NZ, who are working with passion. It’s awesome to be involved.
BILL O’LEARY COLIN WEATHERALL QSM
ONE FUN FACT? and all New Zealanders, ensuring we have Why is it that as an advocate for fishing and balance in the environment, and working hunting I don’t get much time to do either? together to develop sustainable natural assets are other objectives.
CHRIS OWEN ONE FUN FACT? I’m passionate about the amount of Living life for a while yet. pure enjoyment I’ve had spending time Your PAUL SHORTIS with my family hunting and fishing, and wanted to give a little back. PAUL SHORTIS KEVIN WILLIAMS I could see a real disconnect between PAUL SHORTIS I felt that I had taken from Fish & Game the average licence holder and the I found my local freshwater environment all my working life, and upon retiring, I ticket organisation of Fish & Game, and the was deteriorating, and both urban and needed to put something back. great work that goes unseen by most rural water users were planning for the I see all regions working collectively for people; and I wanted to develop better situation to get worse rather than better. the Fish & Game organisation as a whole, communication between licence holders Having been an avid fisherman for years, with unity and uniformity nationwide. and public about what Fish & Game I have always admired Fish & Game’s to actually does in the community. stance and their proactive approach to ONE FUN FACT? environmental issues, and wanted to give Fun things are: waiting for shooting light back a bit of my time and experience. in the hide, opening morning, listening in I’d like to think Fish & Game will be a anticipation to chattering mallards flying, more joined-up organisation in five years. or watching in slow motion as a big brown adventure That doesn’t mean regions are going to rises out of the depths to a floating cicada lose their autonomy, just that there’ll be pattern. Then, in excitement, whipping the The new trout season is here. more coordination of effort and better fly out of its mouth without a touch. It’s time to dust off your rods and get fishing. sharing of knowledge and experience.
ONE FUN FACT? Grab your 2019-20 fishing licence today. Fishing isn’t fun, a fact my wife doesn’t understand when I get home cold and tired from “enjoying myself”.
COLIN WEATHERALL QSM I have a strong passion for the outdoors/ CHRIS OWEN environment. I want to ensure my grandchildren, and their grandchildren I see the organisation as a whole can do what we enjoy. I want to make growing and being recognised for what sure that access is protected. fishandgame.org.nz it actually achieves within NZ – not just Meeting the challenges for licence holders KEVIN WILLIAMS
52 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND Your ticket to adventure The new trout season is here. It’s time to dust off your rods and get fishing. Grab your 2019-20 fishing licence today.
fishandgame.org.nz
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 53 REGIONAL VOICE NORTHLAND
Kai Iwi Lakes research Jigging for Trout DUNE LAKE GALAXIAS WHAT ARE DUNE LAKE GALAXIAS? They are thought to have evolved from inanga, have developed different characteristics and are smaller in size so are called dwarf inanga. The Kai Iwi Lakes dwarf inanga are termed Dune Lake galaxias as they’re genetically different from other dwarf inanga. The dwarf inanga are considered to be New Zealand’s only endemic species of entirely lake-dwelling fish. The distinct inanga species was first recorded in the mid-1940s and Photo credit: Caroline Viskovich found only in Northland dune lakes. A number of research papers were KAYAKS AND UNPOWERED BOATS can still be used initiated in the 1990s to identify the status and ecology of, and threats on Lake Waikare, where jigging for trout near the to, the dune lake galaxias (DLG). Collectively, this research has shown drop-offs is proving successful, adding another that there are now only two of the original four populations of the method of targeting fish in the lake. A softbait species remaining in New Zealand; and these two populations have rod can be utilised with braid as the mainline; both experienced a decline in abundance since the 1960’s. either make one yourself or buy a commercially- A full lake study was completed when trout stocking was produced set-up. Keep moving across any drop offs temporarily discontinued in Lake Waikare. Results showed that trout if you’re using a kayak without a sounder – the fish predation on DLG was responsible for a decline in juvenile abundance, will be down there! but was not totally responsible for the decline in adult abundance. The invasive pest fish gambusia (gambusia affinis) was found to have FISHING COMPETITION played a much greater role in the decline of DLG, adding to the impact of trout predation (Rowe 2003). The trial also indicated that trout stocking in lakes where gambusia were present could be an important factor in reducing the impact of gambusia on the DLG. This finding was reinforced by observations of the abundance of dwarf inanga in Lake Ototoa in the South Kaipara Head. This lake was stocked annually with rainbow trout but contained no gambusia. It was established therefore that rainbow trout predation was not a major threat to dwarf inanga. In addition, DLG are no longer present in Lake Kai Iwi and Shag Lake. Shag Lake has never been stocked with trout and stocking of Kai Iwi stopped in 2001. This all leads to the conclusion that gambusia pose a greater threat to DLG than trout. Current research, authorised by the Taharoa Domain Governance Committee, and headed by NorthTec, will compare the diet of rainbow trout between the two stocked lakes. THE KAI IWI LAKES FISHING COMPETITION has been held annually since 1975 and brings people to the lakes and This research, added to the existing pool of research papers, will district out of the peak season. There were 68 anglers hopefully shed more light on the subject. who participated this year, with 73 trout being weighed in over the two days. The winning fish was 1.355kg. Fishing At The Kai Iwi Lakes The Kai Iwi Lakes is a ‘put and take fishery’, which has been stocked consistently with rainbow trout since 1966. Stocking is required to maintain the fishery as there’s no spawning in the lakes, and fish do not survive or live longer than four years. The volume of trout stocked each year is based on catch rate, size and condition of the trout. An annual fishing competition provides most of the data regarding trout condition and stocking rates. Average weight is approximately 1.2kg and 39.0 for condition factor. The largest reported rainbow landed in the lake was a 4.3kg specimen, caught in 2015. Lake Taharoa is 38m deep and Lake Waikare is 28m deep; the lakes have exceptional water quality, with underwater visibility exceeding 10m. The winter season is best for fishing at the lakes as there is less disturbance, and the cooler water make the trout come into the shallows. Bait, spin and fly, and trolling are all successful methods.
54 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: NORTHLAND
Northland’s Stocked Lakes
WE HAVE THREE OTHER STOCKED LAKES IN NORTHLAND; these are all water storage reservoirs either for town supply or irrigation. They’re stocked with browns and rainbows on the ‘put and take’ concept, and annual stocking ensures a continual supply of fish to catch. All three lakes are within a few kilometres of a population centre so are accessible and family-friendly; bait, spin and fly- fishing are allowed. Expect to hear and Bait and spin tend to be the preferred methods used by our anglers. see kiwi around your campsite, WHAU VALLEY THIS RESERVOIR IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE as the forest and very picturesque; it’s located on the back doorstep of Whangarei, in the holds a sizeable beautiful Pukenui Forest. The lake itself population! covers an area of 24ha with a number WAIPAPA RIVER of small inflow streams. Fishing for families can occur in front of LAKE MANUWAI per angler per day, with both fly and the carpark; there is only a short section THIS IS NEW ZEALAND’S NORTHERN- spin fishing being allowed. Access is via of access track before the bush starts to MOST TROUT FISHERY, situated 15km Forest Road; park at Forest Pools carpark, impede access to the far side of the lake. from Kerikeri. It’s stocked annually with and the lower Waipapa track will take Unfortunately no water craft are rainbows, and non-motorised craft are you upstream into the forest. The river allowed on the lake, but good-sized allowed there, making this irrigation lake can also be accessed from the Puketi browns are taken on a regular basis. a perfect place to try out that new kayak. Recreation Area carpark, via a 2km walk, and you can then follow its course WILSONS DAM NORTHLAND BACKCOUNTRY downstream for as long as you like. WILSONS DAM is a smallish water There’s a camp site mid-way reservoir in the foothills behind RIVERS? down the river – at the aptly named Ruakaka with some reasonably-sized These may not be quite as remote Camp Creek – if you want to make brown and rainbow trout. It provides and picturesque as other regions but it a multiday Northland wilderness easy access for families and is a great Northland does have some lovely adventure. spot to have a picnic. remote rivers. Expect to hear and see kiwi around There is some natural spawning that Most of these rivers and streams were your campsite, as the forest holds a takes place in the streams that flow into the stocked with trout at some time in the sizeable population! dam, which offers numerous signposted past; the lack of suitable spawning access points and an unmaintained access gravels, along with floods and warm KAIHU/MANGATU/WAIMA track around its far side. temperatures mean that only a few RIVERS systems hold self-sustaining populations. ANOTHER NICE SPOT, 35KM FROM WAIPAPA RIVER DARGAVILLE, is the headwaters of the BUSH-CLAD STONY STREAMS are a rarity Kaihu River. The Kaihu River splits at in Northland, so be prepared to be Wharotoro into the Waima River and amazed at this little gem – as this river the Mangatu Stream. The Waima branch has a truly wilderness feel, at only half an heads alongside Aranga Station Road, so hour’s drive from Kerikeri! is very accessible and picturesque, with The headwaters originate in the Puketi numerous deep pools to fish, Forest and eventually flow into the The Mangatu stream heads up Hokianga Harbour. Opouteke Road, firstly into pine The Waipapa holds a small number plantations, then native bush. of rainbows averaging 0.5kg, although Accommodation’s available at the Top larger fish of up to 1.5kg are caught on 10 Holiday Park or at the Kai Iwi Lakes WHAU VALLEY DAM occasion. Daily bag limit is one trout campground.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 55 REGIONAL VOICE AUCKLAND / WAIKATO
Lake Otamangakau discharge impacts on the Whanganui River
THE WHANGANUI AND WHAKAPAPA RIVERS ARE AMONG THE MOST A TREASURED TROUT FISHERIES IN THE NORTH ISLAND, despite being part of the Tongariro Power Scheme (TPS), which takes a significant amount of water from central North Island rivers, diverting their flow into the Waikato catchment for power generation. The western diversion of the TPS draws most of its water from the Whakapapa River, but also collects water from the Whanganui tributaries along the way. The small dams that collect water for the power scheme isolate the upper reaches of the Whanganui and B Whakapapa Rivers, significantly reducing trout spawning upstream. The mainstem Whanganui River has poor water clarity during the summer, considering the upper catchment is dominated by DOC land and forestry. It’s often difficult to see your feet in the Whanganui – while the neighbouring Whakapapa frequently has over 7m of visibility. In 2018 we began monitoring water quality in 16 tributaries of the upper ABOVE: THE RED ARROW SHOWS THE FLOW OF WATER from the TPS Western Diversion Whanganui, with the hope of identifying into Lake Otamanagakau when the power scheme is operating (A), and the discharge areas that were contributing to these back into the Whanganui River when downstream flows in this river are too low to heavy sediment loads. Although the allow the power scheme to operate (B). results indicated that poor track maintenance was likely impacting Otamangakau is discharged on some streams, there It’s back into the Whanganui was no ‘smoking gun’ River to maintain identified until summer often difficult downstream low flows occurred: to see your feet in the minimum flow at that point we requirements. noticed particularly Whanganui – while the This water warm and dirty water cools Lake discharging from Lake neighbouring Whakapapa Otamangakau Otamangakau into frequently has over 7m and is important the upper Whanganui. for sustaining the This discharge was of visibility. fishery. significantly warmer than Although Fish the upper Whanganui and & Game recognise also visibly changed the colour and the significance of the Lake clarity of the river. Otamangakau trout fishery, the quality of Lake Otamangakau is man-made and water that has been discharged into the was created to transfer water from the Whanganui River during critical low flow western diversion of the TPS into Lake periods is unacceptable. Fish & Game staff TOP: Rotoaira and eventually into the Waikato have asked both DOC and Genesis Energy CRYSTAL-CLEAR WATER IN THE Catchment through the Tokaanu Power to work on a solution prior to the 2020 WHANGANUI RIVER ABOVE THE LAKE Station. However during the summer, summer in the hope that a solution can be OTAMANGAKAU DISCHARGE the water taken from the Whanganui found that will safeguarded the Whanganui BOTTOM: headwaters and diverted into Lake River and the Lake Otamangakau fishery. THE LAKE OTAMANGAKAU DISCHARGE
56 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: AUCKLAND / WAIKATO
AUCKLAND/WAIKATO TROUT STOCKING POLICY STOCKING RIVERS WITH YEARLING TROUT external funding has been offered. There WAS ONCE THOUGHT TO BE THE PANACEA were hopes that the lower Waikato River FOR IMPROVING TROUT FISHERIES, and might be an exception, due to the lack up until the mid-1970’s the Auckland of spawning habitat and the presence Acclimatisation Society owned one of large numbers of brown trout but of the largest trout hatcheries in the comparatively few rainbows. The brownies country, annually releasing over 100,000 are seasonal migrants from the Waipa yearlings into local rivers. Rivers headwaters, a migration that However an extensive tagging survey rainbows do not undertake. Indeed, we carried out over a ten-year period from believe the rainbows in the lower Waikato, 1965 to 1975 found that very few trout especially around Cambridge, are fish liberated into rivers were subsequently that have spilled over the Karapiro Dam. caught by anglers; usually no more than Unfortunately, we had no returns from the one fish per 10,000 released were being thousand rainbow yearlings released each caught as adults. winter for three years into the Waikato Further evidence of the futility of River at Cambridge. stocking rivers came from drift diving, Lakes are another story, especially in which was pioneered as a monitoring the central North Island where there are technique by the Auckland Acclimatisation often few – if any – inflowing streams Society in the early 1970’s. Far from that provide adequate spawning habitat. being devoid of juvenile trout, rivers in For example, Lake Arapuni has moderate good condition were found to have a fishing pressure but very limited huge surplus of juvenile fish. Therefore, spawning habitat. To maximise the We also continue to stock lakes in the it was not recruitment that limited the return to anglers, Fish & Game has also Auckland region where there is no natural number of adult trout in a river, but the conducted release timing experiments recruitment, such as Lake Pupuke on the quality and quantity of adult habitat and, at Lake Arapuni to optimise the survival North Shore. to a lesser extent, fishing pressure. of hatchery fish, and found that fish ABOVE: FISHERIES MANAGER DR We still get asked to stock rivers and released in October instead of May are ADAM DANIEL AND TWO VOLUNTEERS the occasional release has occurred when far more likely to be caught by anglers. RELEASING TROUT INTO LAKE PUPUKE
Sterile Trout Project
LEFT: LOOK FOR THE TAG UNDER THE DORSAL FIN
Although it’s always important to report tagged fish, staff will FISH & GAME IS MOVING FORWARD with growth rates of the two groups can be be especially keen to releasing 1000 sterile rainbow trout in compared, to determine whether the Lake Arapuni in 2020. programme is worthwhile. collect details of the After extensive consultation with Although it’s always important to report interested parties we’ll be pressure- tagged fish, staff will be especially keen length and weight treating trout eggs to provide sterile to collect details of the length and weight of all trout caught in yearlings for release into Arapuni, with of all trout caught in Lake Arapuni over the expectation that they won’t breed the next couple of years, to detect any Lake Arapuni over the and thus won’t impact on the genetics of changes in the population. So, as usual, the wild rainbow trout in this significant please report any tagged fish you catch – as next couple of years, fishery. Sterile trout should also grow we only tag fish when we’re conducting to detect any changes larger and have better flesh quality valuable research. To report a tag please than non-sterile fish. However, we’ll call (07) 849-1666 or email the length, in the population. also continue to release non-sterile weight and tag number to: fish for another two years so that the [email protected]
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 57 REGIONAL VOICE AUCKLAND / WAIKATO
Restoring Habitats
FISH & GAME IS THE LEAD AGENCY fish would inundate the site. The new WHEN IT COMES TO RESTORING AQUATIC wetland is hydrologically isolated from HABITATS IN THE AUCKLAND/WAIKATO the lake except during very large flood REGION, with a number of significant events and thus will be entirely fed from projects being untaken on both public the adjoining native forest catchment. and private land. Much of this effort The construction of the wetland required is spent on restoring wetlands, as we the removal of 35,000m3 of soil, and recognise their value for both providing over 60,000 trees were planted. A waterfowl habitat and restoring water water control structure was put in place quality in adjoining rivers. last summer that will allow for the In 2013, Auckland/Waikato Fish & manipulation of levels, giving us the Game signed an agreement with the New ability to manage issues such as koi carp Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA), after and pest plant incursions. initially objecting to the proposed Huntly Another recent project is the North Expressway bypass due to its potential Emmett Wetland, between Pokeno and impacts on local lakes, wetlands and Mercer, which was just a poorly-drained streams. The agreement mapped out paddock when Fish & Game acquired a process whereby NZTA would create it from Transit NZ in 2005. By simply wetland habitat to achieve Fish & Game’s raising an earth coffer dam around the ‘no net loss of wetland’ policy. Mitigation drain’s outlet, we were able to reflood this ABOVE: SOME OF THE WETLAND PROJECTS requirements can be tricky to quantify, wetland to its historic water level. ON PRIVATE LAND THAT AUCKLAND/ though. The preference is always to avoid We were also approached by Babbage WAIKATO FISH & GAME HAS BEEN any effects in the first place but if this is Consultants, on behalf of their client INVOLVED WITH unachievable, the newly-created habitat Synlait Ltd. This new milk processing needs to be larger than the habitat lost. company in Pokeno needed to do open water, with an abundant waterfowl The first of the wetlands, situated next environmental offset work as part of their population. to Lake Kimihia at Evans Road, is almost consent, preferably in the Pokeno area. We’re also involved in many projects complete. A large portion of the valley So last year, a team of contract planters on private land – either with advice, or that the new wetland is situated in is descended on the wetland to plant 9,000 assistance with funding applications. A historical lake bed; it’s always been a wet trees, shrubs and other wetland-type lot of effort is focused on reinstating area that back-flooded from the lake, at plants around the margin. The formerly historical wetland habitat that has been which times nutrients, sediment and pest weed-choked wetland is now once again adversely affected by drainage work.
PLAN REVIEWS CRITICAL FOR Over the last year, Fish & Game has been for the maintenance and restoration of IMPROVING WATER QUALITY involved in two major plan reviews in the wetlands in the district, enhanced public Waikato, both of which will be crucial for access to water bodies, and increased IN LOCAL WATER BODIES maintaining and enhancing the sports fish restrictions over residential and industrial THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT and game bird resource. developments adjacent to wetlands CERTAINLY HAS ITS CRITICS, but whether The proposed Waikato District Plan will and lakes. the RMA is successful in protecting and control future growth and development Plan Change One is a proposed restoring the environment is dependent in the Waikato District, including the area amendment to the Waikato Regional on the statutory plans produced by local between Auckland and Hamilton where Plan to give effect to the Crown Treaty district and regional councils, which must much of New Zealand’s growth over the settlement with river iwi, which undertakes give effect to environmental standards next 25 years is predicted to occur. We to restore and protect water quality in and policies produced by central made a detailed submission on this plan the Waikato and Waipa Rivers. The vision government. review back in October. Key changes in the settlement legislation is that the we sought were to allow for earthworks rivers are restored so that they are safe
58 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VIOCE: AUCKLAND / WAIKATO
for people to swim in and take food from across their entire length. The plan change will manage the cumulative effects of the thousands of land uses and discharges across the entire catchment, which all contribute to the overall degradation of the Waikato and its tributaries. The plan change envisages rules around land use, farm environmental plans and nitrogen limits, and will set the programme for targeted freshwater outcomes and how land users and dischargers are going to get there. We’ve put a huge effort into this process: along with Auckland/Waikato staff we have employed a wide range of experts in their respective fields to give technical advice on legal, planning, economic and biological issues. We’ve made extensive oral and written submissions at three rounds of hearings, while our experts have provided expert conferencing on highly technical issues. And we’ve had a good reception by the five commissioners who sit on the hearings panel, and who will make recommendations to the Waikato ABOVE: PHOTO TAKEN EARLIER THIS YEAR Regional Council about the proposed OF RECENTLY-POISONED REGENERATING plan change. The regional council will NATIVE FOREST IN THE WAIPA RIVER’S make the final decisions based on the HEADWATERS recommendations received.
FINDING A SAFE AND CONVENIENT SPOT TO TEACH KIDS HOW TO FISH is Hamilton challenging enough for avid anglers but for parents who don’t fish it’s normally Anglers in the ‘way-too-hard’ basket. But exposing kids to fishing is critical to Get Kids keeping freshwater fishing alive in New Zealand and protecting our waterways, Fishing because it’s anglers who do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to fighting for our rivers and lakes.
Fish & Game have been looking for a venue to set up kids’ fishing ponds in Hamilton and Auckland for decades, but suitable locations cool enough for trout fishing are hard to come by. Fortunately, Gavin Hall of the Hamilton Anglers Club was thinking outside the box when he proposed a perch fishing day in Cambridge. Gavin and his family put a lot of time in and pulled off a great day for young anglers. Nearly all the kids who attended caught perch (using Berkley softbaits donated by Pure Fishing NZ) and for many of them it was their first fish. Fish & Game would like to put out a big “Thankyou!” to the Hall family, Hamilton Anglers Club, Fish City and Pure Fishing NZ.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-EIGHT 59 REGIONAL VOICE EASTERN Welcome To the 2019/20 Trout Fishing Season
CAROLE PEPPERELL DELIGHTED WITH A CRACKER TARAWERA RAINBOW Photo Peter Williams
THE 2019/20 TROUT FISHING SEASON and quality of Lake Tarawera’s trout. Our imagine with world-class shoreline IS FAST APPROACHING, and we’d like to staff have kicked off a research project, brown trout stalking, and its hydro lakes, welcome you to be a part of it. No matter using acoustic and food web monitoring, to Kaitawa and Whakamarino (Tuai), remain if you’re a seasoned campaigner or a help us gain a better understanding of the fishable when the weather prevents complete newbie, there is much that factors affecting size and condition. While access to Waikaremoana and can awaits you. Your licence is merely the this may not in itself fix the problem, it produce very large fish. ticket to adventure. should help us to be better prepared for the There have been no regulation changes There’s much to look forward to this coming highs and lows. In reply, Tarawera to the Eastern Region rules for the season and our monitoring suggests some has picked its pants up and is producing 2019/20 season, and a full review of the cracking fish will be waiting for you! some high-quality trout on the back of regulations through the Anglers Notice To date this winter, we’ve experienced increased productivity and smelt numbers. Process will be undertaken in 2020 for more settled weather than the large Though catfish are now known to be the following season. The Eastern Council cyclonic activity provided us over the in both lakes Rotoiti and Rotorua, these has indicated that further simplification of last few seasons, along with warmer air lakes have still been producing top quality the angling rules is sought to make them and water. rainbow and brown trout over the past easier to understand and promote greater For the river fisheries, this stability season and it looks as though this will participation in angling. means less erosion and scouring, more continue over the coming season. Lake Keep an eye on media and the Eastern stable weed beds and a more plentiful Okataina has in fact dipped recently from Fish & Game website for further updates supply of trout food such as invertebrates. its pedestal as the largest fish producer, from February 2020. Unless we get hit with excessively large handing the crown to Rotoiti. If you’re planning a fishing trip and don’t flood events in the meantime, the streams We believe Okataina’s poorer know where to begin, drop in to your local and rivers should be looking pretty good performance will be short-lived however, licence agent and pick up any of our free for opening day. For lake environments, and is just a cyclical growth issue that all access pamphlets, which are also available having extended periods of warmer lakes go through from time to time. online from fishandgame.org.nz/eastern. Or temperatures closer to 16° benefits trout If you’re seeking solitude and if you require further advice, simply give us by allowing greater growth through the remoteness in your angling, Lake a call for up-to-date information and lake usually tough winter period. Waikaremoana is a great spot for trolling and river conditions Also, check out our Many questions have been raised in autumn and spring. It combines one newsletter for even more information and regarding the long-term decline in size of the most amazing vistas you could ‘how-to’ tips and advice.
Watch out for our newsletter Each season we produce an in-depth multi-page newsletter covering all the happenings in the Eastern Fish & Game Region. It features the latest news about the fishery and outlines the work we have done to enhance the Eastern Region over the last season, plus tips on how to be more successful in the next season! Additionally, we still have printed brochures available on all of the main rivers and lakes in our patch, so contact us for copies, or see your nearest tackle and licence sales outlet.
60 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONALREGIONAL REPORT: VOICE: EASTERN
Catfish
DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY PERIOD confirmed, unfortunately, what we’d with rod and bait?” There’s nothing to IN 2009, A LAKE ROTOITI RESIDENT thought was inevitable from early on, stop you fishing with bait for pest fish, STUMBLED ACROSS A SINGLE VERY LARGE given the connectivity of the two lakes. but if you don’t have a fishing licence BROWN BULLHEAD CATFISH, DEAD, But the objective now is to prevent any trout you might catch must be ON THE SHORE OF OKAWA BAY. For the the spread of catfish and other released immediately. following seven years however, despite pests into neighboring lakes and If others wish to become involved in the repeated monitoring efforts, no further waterways; and the Check, Clean, Dry programme they should contact William physical proof of catfish was found. methodology is still the best means Anaru at Te Arawa Lakes Trust, email: Then, during March 2016, a Bay of Plenty to reduce the risk. The Bay of Plenty [email protected] Regional Council weed harvesting vessel Regional Council is the lead agency in removing lake weed within Te Weta Bay dealing with these catfish incursions, hauled several live juvenile catfish on and has partnered with Te Arawa board amongst mats of lake weed. Since Lakes Trust in leading a community then, we have witnessed the gradual catfish control programme aimed at spread of catfish out of Te Weta Bay into monitoring the distribution and spread Okere Arm, Okawa Bay, the Ohau Delta and of catfish, and controlling numbers. up into the Ohau Channel. The programme involves providing Then, just before Christmas 2018, information, training, and equipment to the Regional Council reported that volunteers and groups, including local CATFISH! contractors in Lake Rotorua, near schools. One frequently asked question Photo credit: Lucas MacDonald, Mokoia Island, had caught catfish. This we have received is “Can I fish for catfish Bay of Plenty Regional Council
DATAWATCH TAGGED TROUT DRAW
SIZE AND GROWTH OF TROUT IN THE WINNERS OF THE THE ROTORUA LAKES IS MONITORED 2019-20 WHOLE SEASON THROUGH OUR DATAWATCH TAGGING LICENCE DRAW ARE: PROGRAMME. We release 500 tagged fish as part of each liberation with the hope Darrell Black, Rotorua. | Lee Lyons, that they’ll be caught and reported to us. Rotorua. | Dorothy Emmerson, Papamoa. Once provided with tag numbers, lake Menso van der Laan, Reporoa. | Geoff caught, date and the length and weight Moree, Rotorua. | Eddie Bowman, Rotorua. of the fish, we can calculate growth John Glasse, Rotorua. | George Andrews, and condition. This information lets us ABOVE: A YOUNG RAINBOW READY FOR Rotorua. | Keegan Oxenham, Rotorua. know how the lake environments are TAGGING AND RELEASE Roger Bowden, Rotorua. | John Holst, performing, and if we need to make Please keep the tags rolling in. Tags and Rotorua. | Wayne Mollet, Whakatane. changes to the fishery. To encourage tag data may be mailed to us or reported Remco Henst, Reporoa. | Ian Williams, returns we are very pleased to give away online at the URL below or scan the Hamilton. | Gregory Lee, Auckland. 20 whole season licenses each year. QR Code with your phone. Stan Hayman, Rotorua. | Ross Faulkner, Licence draws previously took place in www.surveymonkey.com/r/QCH5ZR6 Napier. | Matthew Jeffares,Tauranga. August, but because this prevented us RIGHT: Kane Fredricksen, Rotorua. | Amie Ritchie, from publishing the winners here in our THE WINNERS Auckland. magazine, the draws now take place OF THE 2019-20 Congratulations! every June. Any tag returns received after WHOLE SEASON Winners will be contacted the draw will immediately go into the LICENCE DRAW following season’s draw. by mail.
FIND EASTERN FISH AND GAME ONLINE:
www.facebook.com/easternfishandgame/ https://fishandgame.org.nz/eastern/
twitter.com/@EasternFishGame
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 61 REGIONAL VOICE EASTERN
FISHING THE WAIKAREMOANA DAWN Photo credit: Kory Moorcock Waikaremoana and Te Urewera Fisheries
LAKES WAIKAREMOANA AND WAIKAREITI abide by the ‘care for nature’ standards Te Kura Whenua for introductions, along with river systems including the that apply to what is a very special place, conversations, and interaction. Waiau, Whakatane, and Ruakituri rivers, as indeed you should do elsewhere. This • Enquire at Te Kura Whenua for up to continue to offer anglers wonderful and means respecting Te Urewera, enjoying date information about where to camp unique opportunities to fish for rainbow what it has to offer, and not impacting when at Waikaremoana, and regarding and brown trout in pristine Te Urewera negatively on it in any way. hiring row boats at Waikareiti, as well environments. See our brochures or In particular, please take any rubbish as any other questions about facilities, website for further information, including you might have away with you when resources and activities within Te a new brochure providing access you leave. Urewera. information and fishing tips. • Enjoy and respect Te Urewera – act Please note that when Lake The following information has been responsibly, and humbly. Waikaremoana is at low water levels, boat provided by Tuhoe, the kaitiaki launching at Mokau may be extremely (guardians) for Te Urewera: difficult. If this is the case, it’s best to • Te Urewera staff at Waikaremoana at Te Contact Te Kura Whenua on launch at Home Bay or Onepoto. Kura Whenua – the visitor centre near 06 837 3803, or by email at We ask that you as anglers, with all the Waikaremoana Holiday Park at [email protected] other manuhiri (visitors), recognise that Home Bay, are available to assist those The Ngaituhoe website: who have come to enjoy Te Urewera. it’s a privilege to be able to visit Te (www.ngaituhoe.iwi.nz) also has useful Urewera; it’s important you recognise and • Manuhiri are encouraged to visit information and updates.
Coming Events ... • CHILDREN’S FISHING Remaining children’s fishing events for 2019 are scheduled to be held at the Ngongotaha hatchery site on September 8, October 6 and November 3. Children need to be pre-booked online. • BOAT FISHING TALKS Boat fishing talks will be held on Saturday, 28 September at the Rugby clubrooms at Gisborne Point, Lake Rotoiti, and at Stoney Point Reserve, Lake Tarawera on Saturday 4 January 2020. • FISH FOR GOLD PROMOTION. We aim to run our popular Fish for Gold tagged trout promotion on the Rotorua lakes again from 1 October, 2019. A number of specially tagged trout will be released, with one of them being worth a grand prize. • KAYAK FISHING TUITION. We are holding a kayak fishing tuition event at Fish & Game, Ngongotaha For more information on these events watch our media on Saturday 23rd November 2019. outlets or contact [email protected].
62 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: EASTERN
Rules Unchanged for DOOR KNOCKING FOR ACCESS 2019-20 Fishing Season SOMETIMES THE GOOD OLD FASHIONED ‘DOOR KNOCKING’ approach pays rewards where there is otherwise no public access to a fishery. Taking the time to seek permission to cross land to fish can have positive results.
SOME TIPS INCLUDE:
• Present yourself well – be tidy and INCREASES IN SPIN well-presented in manner. FISHING AREA HAVE BEEN APPLAUDED • Be polite – advise where you would like to fish and ask for access THERE ARE NO CHANGES TO THE EASTERN REGION ANGLING RULES for the politely. upcoming 2019/20 season. Several changes were adopted for the beginning of last season, but this being an intermediary year in the review process, only exceptional • Be respectful – even if access is circumstances, such as issues affecting the sustainability of the fishery, would denied. have triggered amendments. • Regardless of the outcome, ensure We have received only positive have your say from February 2020. your attitude and actions leave a comments regarding the simplification to The 2019/20 regulation guide has a good impression. You never know, in rules and greater opportunities provided different look, with the formatting being future another request may result in through the removal of many ‘fly-fishing- changed from previous years. It’s hoped access being granted! only’ areas across the Rotorua lakes. the new layout will be more consistent The Eastern Fish and Game Council has between Fish & Game regions, making it • Afterwards, give the landowner a indicated it is seeking further ways to easier to interpret. quick phone call to report how you make freshwater sports fishing more If in doubt, our staff are happy to got on. popular and accessible, so keep an eye clarify any points that you’re unsure of; on the media; there’ll be opportunities to just give us a call or drop us a line.
What’s happening with Tarawera?
LAKE TARAWERA TROUT HAVE SHOWN Complementing this work, a smelt DRAMATIC IMPROVEMENT IN CONDITION monitoring project has been underway OVER THE PAST 12-MONTH PERIOD. since December 2018 in partnership with Between 2012 and 2018 the fish from NIWA and DOC Taupo. this lake had experienced a long period Twice yearly, before and after lake of suppressed growth that had troubled turnover (intermixing of shallow and anglers and fisheries managers alike. deep water) occurs in winter, an acoustic Concerns arising from this and, more echo sounding survey has and will particularly, the lack of understanding continue to be conducted along 30km of of how and why this had occurred, lake transects. Analysis of this data will lead to the birth of a food web project provide estimates of smelt and juvenile in collaboration with the University of bully abundance at these times of the Waikato and Cawthron Institute. year, along with insights into how this Since January this year quarterly prey resource is distributed throughout sampling of trout, prey species the lake. Ultimately, we hope to be able to (smelt, bullies, koura), aquatic weed, forecast future downturns in productivity kakahi (freshwater mussels), benthic and trout condition well ahead of time, invertebrates, and water samples has and take steps to minimize these effects. been taking place with the aim of better In the short term, we hope the MATT OSBORNE SORTS A SAMPLE FROM understanding productivity within the improvement we’ve seen these last two THE BOTTOM OF LAKE TARAWERA lake, and how it ticks. years will continue to please anglers.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 63 REGIONAL VOICE HAWKES BAY
BASIC WATER SAFETY RULES: But while we encourage those who are interested in pack-raft angling to give it a go, this does come with a word of caution. Before embarking on the fishing trip of a lifetime, consider a few basic water safety rules:
1. Never boat alone. At the beginning, go with someone more experienced than yourself who can scout ahead properly.
2. Never paddle a section of the river you can’t see. Get out of your boat and scout.
3. Always wear a life jacket and helmet.
4. Go out and practice with your local whitewater kayaking club. They’ll be pleased to have you along (if sometimes a little disparaging about A New Way To Access Hawkes your “toy boat”).
Bay’s Remote Fisheries 5. Take a throw-rope and learn how to HERE IN THE HAWKE’S BAY WE’RE remote areas from the Arctic to the Amazon. use it. BLESSED WITH A VARIETY OF QUALITY Weighing in at under 3kg and packing down FISHERIES. Our backcountry rivers to the size of two loaves of bread, a pack 6. Don’t be scared to walk around a produce large, well-conditioned fish, raft can be carried in to a remote stretch rapid or section of river you’re not along with amazing scenery and crystal- of water, blown up and floated down to a sure of. Having a light inflatable boat clear water to boot! These special areas, convenient take-out, opening up access to makes this easy! however, are often reserved for those our premier fisheries for those unwilling willing to walk for hours (or days!) or to walk for a week, or pay for a flight, every 7. Check flows before you go. River flows those willing and able to shell out for season. can be easily checked on the Hawke’s helicopter flights. Hawke’s Bay might just be the ideal Bay Regional Council website. The advent of pack rafts and their location for the pack-rafting angler. subsequent boom in popularity has Two of our premier angling rivers, the 8. Have a look at the long-term forecast. however changed the game for those Ngaruroro and Mohaka boast long If lots of rain is due, this will likely anglers with the required fitness and stretches of remote and relatively gentle make the rafting dangerous; postpone sense of adventure to access these class 2+ rapids in normal flows. While the trip. hidden gems. the average pack-rafter could boat the Pack rafts were first popularised by upper section of the Ngaruroro from Boyd 9. Have a look at packraftingtrips.nz Alaskan adventure racers looking at new Airstrip down to Kuripapango in a few and the Packrafting in New Zealand ways to cover large tracts of remote days, you as an avid angler could spend Facebook page to get trip suggestions wilderness. The general public soon caught a week or more paddling and fishing the and to meet likeminded adventurers. on, however, and these pocket-sized same section without fishing the same vessels have since been used to access pool twice.
METHOD: CHRISTINE’S BAKED TROUT Place slices of lemon and herbs inside the gut cavity of your cleaned trout. Lately the fishing in Lake Tutira INGREDIENTS: Drizzle olive oil over the slices and sprinkle on salt has been excellent, with many 1 large Lake Tutira trout and pepper. calling it their best season yet. 1 large lemon Place the trout on tin foil, with remaining lemon With lots of large, pink-fleshed Pinch of salt and pepper slices and herbs on top. Drizzle with more oil and trout coming out of the lake, we 1 tbsp. of olive oil add more salt and pepper. Wrap the trout in the thought it would be a good time Parsley, thyme, dill (optional) tin foil and place in a roasting dish. Bake on 200 to share one of our favourite Half an onion roughly chopped degrees for 15 minutes or until the flesh flakes off simple trout recipes: easily. — ENJOY!
64 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: HAWKES BAY
Getting more people hooked on fly-fishing in the Bay
HAWKE’S BAY FISH & GAME HAS RUN A KIDS’ FISH-OUT DAY AT THE GAME FARM FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS NOW. This is a great way to expose children to the thrill of freshwater angling from an early age. Many of us have been asked by friends and family for fly-fishing tuition, although of course it takes more than one morning to master (or even partially master) the art of fly-fishing. This mentorship is a key part of our sport though – but what about those without a fly-fishing relative or adult-novice anglers. The courses were Feedback’s been positive, so we’ll be friend to call upon? designed to give attendees enough running another course for junior anglers Hastings Anglers’ Club, in conjunction knowledge and practical skills to get out and one exclusively for women over with Hawkes Bay Fish & Game, have run on our local rivers and successfully catch September/October this year. Please three 5-week fly-fishing courses over the fish. Topics included casting, tying knots, get in touch with the Hawkes Bay Fish & last six months. Two of these were for choosing flies, and responsible catch- Game office for more details, and keep an juniors and one was focussed on teaching and-release techniques. eye on our Facebook page for updates! Tips for the Tutaekuri
AS I WRITE THIS, WE HAVE STARTED landed. With some quick thinking I netted TO GET THE ODD FROST; THE AUTUMN him, taking him by surprise in the fast COLOURS ARE WELL AND TRULY GONE. water that he was refusing to budge from. This is late season and the rivers are I admired his enormous width and bright cooling off, the algae are disappearing pink colours before releasing him back to and trout are putting on weight in a big his home. I caught many more trout over way. This is my favourite time of year to the 6lb mark throughout autumn, having fish the local rainbow population. crazy battles with each of them. Rainbows in the Tutaekuri are some of By the time you read this, we’ll be well the hardest fighters in the region. With into spring. After the long winter of rain and lower water temperatures, they’re able high flows, fish recovering from spawning to fight longer and tear off line at higher will be feeding ravenously, becoming drags. I bump my tippet up to 6lb for this easy targets at the start of the reason. For fly choice I run a combination season. In the lower of #10 hare’s ear and a #16 pheasant tail reaches of the or a #16 hare & copper. My leading fly Tutaekuri, using has a heap of weight to get to the bottom a smelt pattern ASAP, because this is where the fish are such as a grey going to be sitting. Rainbows tend to be ghost or rabbit can out and about feeding so fly choice isn’t a be extremely successful. Trout huge factor if your drift is natural enough. begin to feed on running whitebait, Trout will downright refuse your offerings fattening up quickly. if your fly is not drifting at the same Some of these fish can grow very big, speed as the current. especially the browns which can weigh One fish I remember very clearly was over 10 pounds. The Tutaekuri is one of a hefty 6 ½lb jack I landed after a long the gems of the region because of its battle. I spotted him holding in a riffle and sheer habitat variety, which creates so cast my flies into position. He lined up my many types of fishing opportunities. offering and I had him on the first drift. BY BLAIR WHITING He was a spectacular fish that leapt out Blair is a keen local angler. of the water at least 5 times, showing off You can check out some of his adventures on his Youtube Channel: his bulk with a huge splash each time he Epicskwid Fishing
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 65 REGIONAL VOICE TARANAKI
New Season Looking Good!
LAST SEASON PROVED REASONABLY did just after the 2013 spawning period. It’s worth having a go SUCCESSFUL FOR MANY TARANAKI Nevertheless, the current fishery is a good ANGLERS, albeit opportunities early example of the resilience of these natural this season – and with in the season were restricted by the systems and wild fisheries. bait and spin fishing weather and then impacted by prolonged As the word got out this summer low flows over summer and autumn however, and anglers travelled to the allowed on nearly all However, while water temperatures Manganuioteao, so too did we begin to peaked at high levels they didn’t reach get occasional reports of inappropriate Taranaki fisheries, the extremes of two years ago, and along behaviour. consider making it a with the absence of major floods this has This is not the Tongariro River and meant favourable conditions for the trout there’s usually any amount of unoccupied family affair. population over the last year. water, so it is not acceptable to jump into This is reflected in the numerous reports the river 30 metres ahead of an angler from anglers commenting on the good already fishing. numbers of juvenile trout they’re seeing in Similarly, a lot of the access is across Taranaki streams. private land: the land bordering most of More recently there was a significant the accessible water owned by just two flood in northern Taranaki streams on farming families. We’re most fortunate that July 4, but in the absence of any others they’re both very amenable to allowing between writing this and the start of the access, so long as they’re asked. new season on October 1 there should be So please make the effort to do the right some good fishing to be had. thing; up-to-date contact details can be Similarly, as reported in the last couple found using www.fishandgame.org.nz – just of years the fishery in the Manganuioteao select Taranaki Region, and go to Fishing River north-west of Raetihi has really Locations and Access/Ruapehu Fisheries. bounced back to the quality consistent with Note that there’s no cell phone coverage having a Water Conservation Order in place. once you drop into the catchment, so you It’s taken five to six years to fully need to call to arrange access beforehand. recover from the impacts of the October All in all, it’s worth having a go this 2013 100-year flood which was a season – and with bait and spin fishing ABOVE: THE MANGANUIOTEAO RIVER combination of an extreme event and allowed on nearly all Taranaki fisheries, Photo credit: Mike Bakker the worst possible timing, occurring as it consider making it a family affair.
66 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: TARANAKI
APPRECIATING WHAT WE HAVE THE TROUT FISHING OPPORTUNITIES rivers there’s a good chance that no-one ACROSS THE TARANAKI REGION tend to will have fished there since their last visit. fly under the radar compared to more Even on our high-profile fisheries – such as high-profile fisheries elsewhere. the Manganuioteao River – there is nearly While from a management perspective always easily-accessed water available, it would be helpful to attract more such that over the busiest holiday periods anglers and sell more licences, for local it can still be a struggle for us to find anglers there are some real advantages anglers when ranging. from this situation. While fish density is often not that high The reality is now that on many back- around the Taranaki ring-plain the size country fisheries around New Zealand and condition of trout can be anything there is real and growing competition for from good to exceptional. fishing water and the fish are subject to Add into the mix the close proximity of frequent angling pressure, all of which many streams, their scenic values and ease impacts on the angler’s experience. of access, and local anglers really do have Yet in Taranaki and the Waimarino for it pretty good. It’s a situation that many the most part an angler can waltz down to other NZ anglers would envy; something to their favourite beat at any time of the day value and make the most of! in the knowledge that they’re very unlikely LEFT: PETER GRANT WITH A NICE TARANAKI to see another angler, and indeed on many BROWN Photo credit: Mike Bakker
Kids' Trout Fishing Events For 2019 TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITY FOR annual Stratford kids’ trout fishing day on CHILDREN TO TRY TROUT FISHING, Saturday, December 14. Taranaki Fish & Game holds a series of This day is run by the Stratford Fishing ‘fish out’ events where children can fish Club and from late November, parents and for free, under supervision, for good- caregivers can call the Stratford Information sized rainbow trout. Centre (0800 765 6708) to book a Then following the fishing day, children 15-minute time-slot for their children. and adult anglers who hold a current The event will run from 8am, with the licence can continue to fish for the last fishing time-slot at 12.45pm, and all remaining trout over the next few weeks. the fishing gear is provided. Whole season licences are free to The release is timed so that the kids under 12 on October 1 and cost rainbow trout not caught on the day $27 for 12-17 year-olds, with a day remain in the Patea River where it runs option also available. through Stratford for the Christmas school holidays, and there’s also a good NEW PLYMOUTH population of wild brown trout. Walkways In conjunction with the Inglewood Rod, Gun on both sides of the river give good & Recreation Club and Taranaki Hunting access to a number of pools and runs, and & Fishing, Fish & Game will be providing the fishing season on the upper Patea ABOVE: CHRISTINA WELLS PROUDLY 250 two-year-old rainbow trout at Lake River runs through until April 30, 2020. DISPLAYS THE RAINBOW TROUT SHE Rotomanu on Saturday, October 19. CAUGHT AT LAST YEAR’S STRATFORD Kids will be able to fish with the help OPUNAKE KIDS’ FISHING EVENT of local experts, and with all fishing gear While there is no organized event this supplied. From October 1, parents and year Fish & Game will be releasing Murray Dobbin (ph 021 163 4486) caregivers can book a 15-minute time- 250 two-year-old rainbow trout into slot for their youngsters by visiting or Opunake Lake on Friday October 18. As RAETIHI phoning the Taranaki Hunting & Fishing at the other sites all angling methods Next February, Fish & Game intend to store in Ocean View Parade, Moturoa can be used here, including spin and again release approximately 100 two- (06 757 2255) bait fishing. Good fishing sites can be year-old rainbow trout into Sattlers Dam, . found at the boat ramp area off Layard east of Raetihi. This is dependent on STRATFORD Street or from the walkway round the the trout being available again from the Fish & Game will be releasing 300 two- lake off Park Place in Opunake. Tongariro National Trout Centre, but has year-old rainbows into the Scout Den For more detailed advice on how and proved very popular with local kids and pool on the Patea River for the 22nd where to go, contact local angler families in recent years
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 67 REGIONAL VOICE WELLINGTON
Season Prospects – What’s in store for 2019/20?
CRYSTAL-BALL-GAZING IS ALWAYS A PERILOUS PURSUIT, so long-range weather forecasts are out… Here’s what we do know though: a number of key rivers are down in trout numbers but they are up in fish size. In short, we’re picking there’ll be more larger fish this season – including some potential giants, too – that could push into the trophy category, given the largest beech seeding event in 40 years that occurred last autumn (more on that later). The Hutt is a case in point. The 2019 drift dive surveys show 40 trout/km, which is still superb, only slightly down from 50-odd the year before. This is not a significant decrease and could have been affected by any number of variables. What is particularly encouraging is that more large browns were observed in all reaches. These fish have got the potential to grow very, very big too, because the Hutt catchment is likely to have been affected by the beech tree mast and the resulting rodent plague that the Department of Conservation is warning about. Big trout love big meals and that’s exactly what rats and mice mean to hungry fish. The beech seeding event is also likely to have an impact on all waterways sourced in the Tararua and Ruahine ranges, not just the Hutt River, so there are a lot of rivers that could carry trophy trout. ABOVE: THE LATE MARTIN SIMPSON AND HIS 12.5LB We’d love to hear of any exceptionally big specimens caught over the MOUSE-EATER FROM THE TARARUAS IN 2011 – course of the season, so please keep us in the loop. WILL WE SEE MORE MONSTER TROUT THIS SEASON? Email [email protected] or call the office on (06)359-0409. © Martin Simpson
Mouse-Eating Moochers
BIG FOOD ITEMS MEAN BIG TROUT!
THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION IS invariably means more mice and rats anticipate some moocher trout lurking reporting that the biggest beech seed crossing streams and rivers. around our waters this season. event in over 40 years occurred during Cue trout, to come in and do their bit And, no, you don’t have to head into the the summer and autumn of 2019. for conservation! Large trout need lots of backcountry … the rats and mice will find What’s that got to do with fishing? food, and large protein packs in the form of their way to the lowland waterways too, Well, when the beech and rimu trees rodents struggling through the water make and the trout there will grow very large throw unusually high amounts of seed, for an easy meal. By devouring these the feasting on them it creates an enormous food supply. fish can put on a phenomenal amount of As a case in point, the brown pictured Accordingly, the forest-dwelling rodent weight in very short order. So with beech with the rat removed from its stomach was numbers explode – and more mice masts having occurred in the Tararua and taken from the Ruamahanga River near and rats running around on the ground Ruahine ranges, anglers can conceivably Masterton late last season.
68 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: WELLINGTON RANGITIKEI Ranging
LAST SEASON BROUGHT IN CHANGES IN THE WAY WE MANAGE THE UPPER RANGITIKEI FISHERY.
A $25 fee was attached to the endorsements, which is backcountry endorsement to essentially the same as fishing cover the cost of the public without a licence. liability insurance required of On a positive note, the upper anglers by the NZ Defence Force reaches of the Rangitikei are in (NZDF), whose land borders a stunning shape and the fishery significant length of the river. is looking superb, with good Wellington Fish & Game numbers of both large rainbows also significantly ramped up and browns. its compliance effort in the Our triennial drift-dive of catchment. Trail cameras were the upper Rangitikei will give
The upper reaches of the Rangitikei are in stunning shape and the fishery is looking superb. placed at strategic sites to us data to support anecdotal capture anglers on the river, the observation. Meantime, if you’re data then being used to correlate fishing these reaches over against NZDF access information. the coming season, don’t be Rangers were sent in on four surprised to encounter rangers – compliance trips to service just be sure to have your licence the recording equipment and and backcountry endorsement on physically check licences. you. Everyone needs to play by Disappointingly, several anglers the rules to ensure that ongoing checked were unable to provide access to this world-class angling proof of their backcountry resource isn’t put at risk.
RIGHT: PATROLLING FOR ANGLERS ON THE WAY OUT OF THE UPPER RANGITIKEI RIVER ©Hamish Carnachan
KIDS GO TROUT MAD! WELLINGTON FISH & GAME’S ‘TROUT IN SCHOOLS’ PROGRAMME IS GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH.
A large number of schools throughout the region are already engaged in learning about trout and the importance of having these fish in our rivers and lakes as indicators of waterway health. Fish & Game sets classrooms up with a tank, filter and chiller, and then supplies trout ova. Children (and teachers and parents) raise the trout to fingerling stage and in the process learn about the life cycle of trout, and then use our specifically designed curriculum guidance document for learning about waterways health. Because the programme is so popular, the waiting CREATIVITY IN A WAIRARAPA SCHOOL CLASSROOM STEMS list to join is growing. However, if you’d like to know FROM THE ‘TROUT IN SCHOOLS’ PROGRAMME more about what’s involved, and you’re interested in particpating, please contact the office on (06)359-0409.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 69 REGIONAL VOICE WELLINGTON
The Ultimate KAWHATAU AND RUAHINE WESTERN ACCESS WELLINGTON FISH & GAME HAS FOR SOME TIME BEEN CONCERNED Angling Intel AT THE LOSS OF ACCESS TO THE WESTERN SIDE OF THE RUAHINE RANGE, particularly the headwater fishery of the Kawhatau River LIVE RIVER FLOWS AND UP-TO-THE-MINUTE WEATHER which has been blocked by a landowner. CONDITIONS are just a couple of the features that make The local DOC conservancy has really dropped the ball when it Wellington Fish & Game’s Weekly Fishing Reports so comes to ensuring ongoing public access. Wellington Fish & Game is popular amongst our licence holders. therefore working with Federated Mountain Clubs, the Deerstalkers Add in top tips from expert anglers, and reports from Association and other neighbouring landowners to consider around the region, and you’ve got the ultimate fishing our options for reinstating access. We’ll keep you informed of intel delivered to your inbox every Thursday – the best developments. information available to plan your weekend fishing mission and make it a success. Don’t miss out. If you haven’t signed up to receive this free information service then email: REGS CHANGES [email protected] FOLLOWING ROBUST discussion at the Wellington Fish & Game Council meeting in June, a number of changes to the regulations will be ABOVE: Only single hooks on in place for the 2019/20 spinning lures are now permitted in season. some waters ©Hamish Carnachan
THE FOUR KEY CHANGES PROPOSED ARE: 1. Bait fishing will be prohibited has been reduced to two in all waters that close for fish on the Manawatu River winter in the Wellington Fish downstream of Maunga & Game region. Road Bridge (upstream of Dannevirke). 2. The use of treble hooks is prohibited in these 4. The daily bag limit of trout closed waters. Spin fishing has been reduced to two with single hooks is still fish on the Ruamahanga permitted during the open and its major tributaries ABOVE: WELLINGTON’S WEEKLY FISHING REPORT IS season. downstream of PACKED FULL OF UP-TO-THE-MINUTE INFO SH2, and the length of the 3. The daily bag limit of trout Tauweru River. KIDS FISHING BRIEF IF YOU WANT TO GET YOUR KIDS HOOKED INTO FISHING THEN ONE OF YOUR BEST BETS IS TO ENSURE THEY TASTE SUCCESS. This is where our organised fish-out days really play a part, with participants almost guaranteed to land a trout. In partnership with clubs around the region, we help run a number of events each year in Wellington, the Kapiti Coast and Palmerston North. For more details check out the Wellington Fish & Game webpages or sign up for our Weekly Fishing Reports and we’ll keep you informed of upcoming events.
LEFT: YOUNG AND OLD HAVING A BALL AT THE OTAKI KIDS' FISH-OUT LAST SUMMER
70 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: WELLINGTON
CRACKING THE RUAMAHANGA CODE
ASK ANGLERS ABOUT THE RUAMAHANGA FISHERY AND INVARIABLY YOU’LL GET ONE OF TWO RESPONSES, DEPENDING ON WHO YOU TALK TO. “There’s no fish in it,” is one stock answer. “Bloody hard to crack,” is the other. The first is a load of rubbish. The river has very good stocks of trout and our last spawning survey counts actually showed a real resurgence in the key mid-river reaches which happen to be the most scenic to fish. THIS HEALTHY BROWN WAS CAUGHT AND RELEASED The second is much closer to the truth – it’s a hard CLOSE TO MASTERTON LATE LAST SEASON river to crack and, certainly, it doesn’t give up its secrets easily. When it does, though, it’s well worth the time spent persevering. Strike the Ruamahanga on a good day and it’s the equal of any lowland dry fly fishery in the country. In fact, it’s been referred to as the ‘Mataura of the North’ for that very reason. The mayfly hatches can be superb. They can come off at any time of the day and, stretches that seemed devoid of fish suddenly switch on and the surface fair bubbles as hungry trout gouge on the delicate insect offerings. Come dusk, and the caddis take flight in clouds sometimes so thick that you have to breathe through your Stretches nose to avoid choking on them! that seemed Perhaps the most A HEALTHY RUAMAHANGA RAINBOW perplexing aspect devoid of fish suddenly SHORTLY BEFORE RELEASE of the Ruamahanga switch on and the surface fishery, however, are the down times fair bubbles as hungry trout – those occasions when nothing is gorge on the delicate moving and the entire insect offerings. river just seems devoid of trout. These happen often and are probably the basis upon which visiting anglers assume there are no fish in the river. One of the keys to fishing this river successfully is to be highly mobile. For whatever reason, the trout tend to move around in great schools and will concentrate in certain stretches they find favourable. Unfortunately for anglers, it’s hard to pinpoint where they’ll be congregating on a given day. Hence the need to cover lots of water, quickly, to locate them. Chances are when you do get a strike, it’ll be followed by plenty of fish coming to the net. Keep an eye out for our angling newsletter in your mailboxes around THE LOWER RUAMHANGA HAS CONSISTENTLY November – we’ll have a dedicated FISHED WELL OVER THE LAST FEW SEASONS Ruamahanga Fishery Focus article with © Andrew Harding more detail than we can go into here.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 71 REGIONAL VOICE NELSON / MARLBOROUGH
OUR SHIFTING CLIMATE LOOKS TO BE POSING SOME UNIQUE CHALLENGES FOR THE FUTURE MANAGEMENT OF BOTH CLIMATE CHANGE INTRODUCED AND NATIVE FISHERIES. COMING TO A RIVER NEAR YOU! Monitoring observations of trout and native fishery health within the Nelson- Marlborough Region over the last 20 years reveals some alarming trends to Fish & Game. Staff have noticed through annual drift dive monitoring that some of our smaller riverine trout fisheries are now struggling to reach their historic potential from an adult trout biomass perspective, due to ‘flood thinning’. The jury is still out as to whether this is a temporary trend, or a permanent shift in the frequency of adverse flood events we are now receiving – all the science consensus on climate change impacts however, suggest it’s a phenomenon we are likely to see a lot more of in future. CYCLONE GITA WREAKED HAVOC ON THE RIWAKA RIVER In February, many Tasman residents Photo credit: Logan Church, RNZ experienced first-hand the new reality of climate change, as Cyclone Gita wreaked plus two small tributary sites (one of on our native fisheries. havoc and destruction on a huge scale which was trout-free). Even the resilient Similar substantial reductions in native across the region. The Riwaka River eels appeared to have taken a massive fishery health were also observed by Fish was hit particularly hard, and staff were reduction in biomass (~80%). & Game staff in Golden Bay rivers, many very surprised to even find any adult Quite why adult salmonids out- of which are trout-free within mature native-forested catchments. Without doubt, climate change is “the elephant in the room” for future management of both native and trout fisheries, and future fishery managers will be faced with the difficult choice of either accepting near permanent small trout fishery degradation, or alternatively attempting to ‘short-circuit’ the natural population rebuild period through intervening with a release of adult fish (rather than waiting for a window of 3-5 stable years for population rebuild to occur naturally). Any such future riverine adult trout releases are likely to be controversial from both a political and scientific salmonids left alive within this system performed native species in post cyclone perspective. during a drift dive post Cyclone Gita. survival is unclear, however the answer may Some of our native fisheries face While this was good news, subsequent lie in fish behaviour – large adult salmonids even bigger challenges than trout, and electric fishing of long-term catchment may have been more capable of retreating it’s not inconceivable that for rarer monitoring sites revealed a dent in to the edge of flood flows and riding the migratory river-dwelling species such as juvenile salmonid recruitment and, more disaster out. More benthic orientated fish short-jawed kokopu, a similar approach concerningly, complete annihilation of such as koaro on the other hand, who hide of releasing adult fish may one day the once-thriving adult koaro fishery and within substrate during the day, may well need to be contemplated by DoC for other native species such as redfin bullies have become ‘mince-meat’ as the system this species to be able to persist in and koura. experienced massive bed movement during some river systems. Up until Cyclone Gita, monitoring had this extreme whether event. Who knows what the future holds, but shown a peak and decline of koaro over Whatever the reason however, it one thing seems certain - we will likely a ten-year period, but following the should sound alarm bells for the see a lot more floods and droughts, cyclone, complete loss of this species Department of Conservation, in terms of with flow-on effects to both native and occurred at all three monitoring sites potential future climate change impacts salmonid fishery health in New Zealand.
72 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: NELSON / MARLBOROUGH
REGULATION CHANGES FOR THIS SEASON
BRANCH/LEATHAM & LAKE DANIELL SEASON EXTENDED The season for the Branch and Leatham Rivers has been extended by a month, meaning it’s now possible to fish these rivers until May 31. The Council decided to extend the season to provide more recreational opportunities to local anglers, who’ve been enjoying the fruits of successful rainbow trout releases in the past two years. However, anglers should note that this season extension is a one-year trial, which could be retracted if any significant impacts on the trout fishery are revealed in our monitoring programme. LAKE DANIELL FISHING HAS NOW BEEN For the same reasons outlined above, EXTENDED BY A MONTH anglers will now be able to experience the fishing at Lake Daniell for an extra catchment in North Canterbury. angers and those wanting to troll through. month, with the closing day on May 31. Your elected Council also considered The new regulation means that shore- This stunning bush-clad lake, located near making the Goulter a Controlled Fishery based anglers, and boats that are either Springs Junction, holds a good population which, like the Greenstone River in Otago, moored, drifting, or not under motorised of rainbow trout, with brown trout also in would mean anglers would be required power, can now fish within 100m of the residence. to book a beat on a designated day centre of the meeting line between the The October 1 will remain in place as duing the peak of the season; however lake and the nominated river or stream. the season opening day. this has been deferred due to a possible For Lake Rotoiti these are the Travers restructure of the licence issuing agency. and Buller rivers, as well as the Coldwater 400MM MAXIMUM SIZE LIMIT and Black Valley streams. For Lake FOR GOULTER WINTER FISHING Rotoroa the rule applies to the Sabine, REGULATION LIFTED FOR D’Urville and Gowan rivers. The maximum takeable size limit for Trolling under motorised power trout in the Goulter River has been NELSON LAKES through these zones is still prohibited. reduced to 400mm. Good news for winter angling at Lakes Winter angling can be tough enough as While there may be some fish in the Rotoiti and Rotoroa in Nelson Lakes: it is, so hopefully relaxing this regulation edible size class less than 400mm, by far the regulation that prohibits fishing will encourage anglers to head to these the majority of fish in this river exceed within 100 metres of the main waters stillwater jewels and have a decent this; therefore this new regulation flowing into and out of the lakes has chance at success by fishing these essentially makes this river a catch- been lifted for shore-based angers and previously off-limits areas. and-release fishery. It was thought the boats not operating under motorised change would bring more protection to power. As many anglers know, the zone SALMON DAILY BAG LIMIT this superb brown trout fishery, which where a river enters a lake is a hotspot REDUCED is coming under increasing pressure, for trout, as are the outflow areas The rule particularly from non-resident anglers. was originally put in place to protect the The daily bag limit for salmon in this This same regulation is in place for pre-spawning trout congregating in these region has been lowered to one fish per some other South Island fisheries, such confluence zones, and also to prevent day, bringing the new regulation into as those found in the Upper Waiau possible conflict between shore-based line with other South Island regions.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 73 REGIONAL VOICE NELSON / MARLBOROUGH
FISH WEARING BLING
WEESANG PAAKA WITH A TAGGED RAINBOW TROUT
TROUT ADORNED WITH COLOURED about it), and in our drift dive counts – an Many local anglers get a real kick out of TAGS ARE NOW FOUND IN A NUMBER OF underwater census of the fish population catching a tagged fish and will happily WATERWAYS IN THE TOP OF THE SOUTH throughout a specific reach, where tagged notify Fish & Game of their catch, ISLAND. These tags are individually fish are sighted by divers. although others prefer to remain quiet. numbered and come in an assortment Tags also allow us to see what fish get In the past few years we’ve had terrific of colours, because each release into a up to – where they go from their point feedback from some anglers catching certain waterway has its own specific of release. We’ve had trout, for example, our tagged fish, in a range of waterways. colour and number range. which have travelled large distances This is gratifying on one level in that So – why do we tag fish? from their release point, and even some the angler has derived enjoyment from Well, in this region it’s done so we can that have navigated obstacles such as catching the fish, but on another level monitor the effectiveness of our releases. dams – in some cases by surviving a that the release has worked well, and We do this through tag returns (when drop over the Branch River weir – a not the hatchery fish have adapted to the anglers catch a tagged fish and tell us insignificant fall of around five metres! river environment.
R3 – A FOCUS FOR FISH & GAME R3 – BEING RECRUITMENT, RETENTION some significant gains, in particular with many of you have wished for, and that AND REACTIVATION – is now a a notable increase in participation from is providing fishing destinations that significant part of the Fish & Game anglers of all age and skill levels. have easy access and a good chance of annual work plan. One of the central components to our catching a fish or two. In a nutshell, R3 activities seek to R3 programme is, of course, the hatchery Rest assured, as long as this region create new participants or increase – and the regular releases of fish into has the current hatchery at our disposal, participation rates of current or lapsed some of our waterways, whether these fishing locales such as Waimea Park outdoor recreationists. Recently Nelson- take place into junior kids’ fish-out junior fish out ponds and Lake Argyle Marlborough became one of four pilot ponds, Lake Argyle, or a small number of will continue to be a priority for regular regions implementing a R3 strategy and, rivers. The hatchery allows this region future releases. since its inception, this region has made to offer you, the angler, something which
74 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: NELSON / MARLBOROUGH
LAKE ARGYLE ‘HOW TO’ VIDEOS ARE YOU GETTING ACCUSTOMED TO WATCHING OTHERS CATCH MOST OF THE FISH AT LAKE ARGYLE WHILE YOU CONTINUE TO STRUGGLE? There’s a reason the ten percenters catch 90% of the fish, and that is because they adapt to the conditions and have a range of techniques and gear to suit. So – if you’re wanting to branch out from the conventional metallic lures and diversify your angling arsenal, Fish & Game is releasing a short video on using softbaits and bubble/fly techniques specific to fishing at Lake Argyle, that will catch you more fish. While conventional metal lures still catch their fair share of fish, new techniques have been developed in the past few years that the fish simply can’t resist, and the good news is VIDEOS ARE OUT ON HOW TO those in the know are willing to share their hard-won secrets. CATCH MORE FISH AT LAKE ARGYLE Visit the Fish & Game website to watch the videos. RIVER MORPHOLOGY – HOMOGENISED LOWER RIWAKA NZ’S MOST OVERLOOKED SALMONID FISHERY DESTROYER?
RIVER ENGINEERS – LOVE THEM OR LOATHE THEM, THEY HAVE A JOB TO DO – protecting property and infrastructure from flood damage.The chronic cumulative impact of river control activities on both salmonid and some native fisheries (e.g. longfin eels) have often escaped recognition by decision-makers within the Resource Management arena where Fish & Game and DoC undertake most of their habitat retention advocacy work on behalf of licence holders. A good example of this was the 2016 renewal of Tasman District Councils global river works consent for Tasman Rivers. During the hearing for this consent, Fish & Game staff surveyed two 5km ‘engineered’ reaches of the Motupiko and compared them to an ‘un-engineered’ >>
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SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 75 REGIONAL VOICE NELSON / MARLBOROUGH
RIVER MORPHOLOGY TROUT HABITAT REPAIR THROUGH ROCK CONTINUED ... GROYNE INSTALLATION
5km section of similar gradient. Survey results were revealing, documenting why this once great Motueka River tributary fishery had declined so badly. The results showed the engineered sections contained half the number of pools/km as the un-engineered reach, and in addition the engineered pools were on average only half the size of the non-engineered reach pools. A Fish & Game Environment Court appeal regarding the Council’s river works consent decision was ultimately settled in mediation via a number of conditions, including the Council undertaking a baseline river geomorphology survey, and an M.o.U to work with Fish & Game in future for better river management outcomes. A subsequent baseline river morphology survey gave an insight into Fish & Game and historic landowner observations in relation to the lower Motupiko and other small, heavily- engineered Tasman rivers such as the Wai-iti, and Tadmor, which had suffered chronic pool loss over time. While good for the conveyance of flood waters, works had ultimately resulted in channel ‘homogenisation’ and significant pool loss - disastrous for robust tree willow species, rather than handle on historic pool loss. adult trout and eel habitat. shrub willow, in many of these systems. This can then be reversed through This situation is now being reversed The good news is that a simple survey future river repair works with the right through the Council’s willingness to use of pool ratios within a stream can be engineering solution - if there is a will rock groynes rather than riprap wherever compared to an expected theoretical to embrace this approach within river possible and also the planting of more ratio (Leopold et al. 1964) to get a engineering projects.
LAKE ARGYLE TAG DANIEL HALSTEAD ENTERED HIS COMPETITION ALL GO FOR TAGGED FISH IN THE COMPETITION THIS SEASON AND WON A NEW FISHING ROD THE POPULAR LAKE ARGYLE TAG COMPETITION IS SET TO RUN AGAIN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, and will be even bigger and better than last year.
This year there will be more prizes on offer – a high value main prize, with plenty of additional prizes like new rod/reel combos, softbait and lure packs, free fishing licences and more. Last season’s competition was extremely popular, with a rush of anglers heading to the lake to try their luck, and plenty of tagged fish got caught too, with over 80% of the tags handed in. Besides the tag competition, regular releases of rainbow trout are set to take place throughout the season, including some massive double digit fish which have been growing for the past two years; these will be released periodically over summer.
76 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 77 REGIONAL VOICE WEST COAST
Prospects For The Season
ALL SIGNS ARE POINTING TOWARDS It seemed impossible to AN EXCELLENT START TO THE 2019/20 SPORTS FISHING SEASON. The last avoid catching juvenile two summers’ surveys show a cohort salmon that had not of young trout coming through most river systems. This improvement is entered the marine cycle of very noticeable during these dive surveys, where large shoals of juveniles their life yet. gradually increase over successive years towards a takeable size for anglers. downstream. These juvenile salmon are due back in good numbers this summer West Coast river and lake systems and next, although record high summer started to improve around three years sea temperatures may interfere with ago, after a series of large floods in food supplies and currents. quick succession had devastated the Fish & Game decided to postpone major fisheries. This improvement will putting extra controls on our iconic result in high numbers of medium-sized backcountry fisheries last year to get fish throughout the region this season. more data on angler usage rates and Of course, you don’t get these smaller issues, so please let us have your fish without the larger, mature resident thoughts on these fisheries if you adults, but these larger trophies are still encounter any of our surveys. There are around as well. a number of changes to the regulations While salmon fishing in the South for 2019/20 so check out the article in Westland salmon lakes last year it this magazine outlining the major ones seemed impossible to avoid catching and always check your regulation guide juvenile salmon that had not entered before you head out for the first time in the marine cycle of their life yet. These the new season. Who’s keeping fish usually head to sea when the warm upper surface of the lakes cools DEAN KELLY Manager count? down in autumn and allows passage IN THE WEST COAST SECTION OF THE REGULATIONS GUIDE YOU’LL FIND WE’RE ENCOURAGING A VOLUNTARY SIX FISH KNOW YOUR ACCESS PER DAY CATCH-AND-RELEASE LIMIT. While not all lakes and rivers have may allow foot access to get from one As a sport, we should always be public access to them, in many cases place to another but exclude vehicle encouraging new participants, now this access has been established; the access, for example. more than ever – as technology lures resulting publicly-reserved land that Fish & Game has a well-established the next generation away from the exists alongside these waterways is network of angler access signs across outdoors. But success at an early commonly referred to as the ‘Queen’s the West Coast, and please remember to stage is vital for beginners, and for Chain’. It can be one of follow any additional information that reason we need some readily many types: legal roads contained on the signs. catchable trout in our waterways. (including unformed Always ask for permission There’s a problem, though: experienced ones), marginal Always ask from the land occupier anglers practicing unlimited catch- strips, walkways, if you think the and-release reduce the availability of easements, for permission from land is private, and catchable fish. Anglers lucky enough national parks, the land occupier if you no angler-access to have become proficient in our sport reserves, and signage is present. therefore need to ensure they don’t other public think the land is private, More information reduce opportunities for those just conservation can be found on starting out. lands. The type or if no angler-access the Fish & Game So, this season, be an ethical of access can signage is present. and Walking Access angler, especially in heavily-fished dictate the activities websites. waters, and share our great resource allowed; an easement by limiting your catch! GLEN NEWTON Field Officer MORER INFO: BAYLEE KERSTEN Field Officer https://www.walkingaccess.govt.nz/our-maps/ https://fishandgame.org.nz/freshwater-fishing-in-new-zealand/where-to-fish/
78 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: WEST COAST Drifting to monitor trout
DRIFT DIVING IS USED IN FISHERY MANAGEMENT TO UNDERSTAND FISH ABUNDANCE AND SIZE DEMOGRAPHICS IN RIVERS. A team of wetsuit-clad divers spread out and drift downstream, providing a spot check of the fish population on that reach of water. The results are not randomised however, and so aren’t suitable for use at the catchment or regional level.
West Coast rivers are dived for brown trout (salmo trutta) with dives between one and three kilometres long, sufficient to give a good population estimate of that reach whilst avoiding diver fatigue. Some rivers have been dived since 1985, giving a large dataset for comparison over that period.
A team of wetsuit-clad divers spread out and drift downstream, providing a spot check of the fish population on that reach of water.
Last season ten drift dives were perceived high angler usage on a Crow and ‘The Bend’) and Mokihinui completed: highly-valued section of river near the rivers (north/south branches) are dived The Mawheraiti River (SH7 and Grey River Water Conservation Order. to monitor the impact of perceived high Mirfins) and the Inangahua River Numbers were low: on average 50 angler activity within these designated (Blacks Point) were dived to monitor trout/km were seen, with 50% of these backcountry fisheries. Numbers fluctuated the impact of catchment development. beingunder 450mm in length. Last between sites: on average 50-150 trout/ Trout numbers fluctuate: on average season’s trout numbers were also low. km were seen, 50% of them under 100-400 trout/km were seen, with The Grey River (Waipuna) is dived to 450mm in length. Last season’s trout 90-95% being under 450mm in length. monitor the middle reaches of one of the numbers were very similar to historic Last season above-average numbers of West Coast’s most-fished river catchments. counts from the mid 80’s – although one small and medium trout were observed Numbers were good: on average 175 site, ‘The Bend’, is showing a decline in fish in the Mawheraiti, while below-average trout/km were seen, with 90% being of over 450mm in length. numbers were seen in the Inangahua. under 450mm in length. Trout numbers The Grey River (Hospital Flat) were also above average last season. GLEN NEWTON Field Officer was dived to monitor the impact of The Karamea (upstream/downstream
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 79 REGIONAL VOICE WEST COAST
How To Get The Young Ones Fishing This Season BAYLEE KERSTEN Field Officer
PASSING ON YOUR PASSION FOR ANGLING TO KIDS can be challenging, but rewarding. If it’s done right, in years to come they’ll be the one asking you to come out, and that’s when you know you’ve done a great job. Firstly, you need to decide when to take them. Try to have as much as possible in your favour while ensuring conditions are still enjoyable. I’d recommend following heavy rain during summer, when clearing rivers can provide aggressively-feeding trout. Spin fishing is great as it keeps them occupied, but bait fishing can really increase the young angler’s odds. So typically, you’re best to do some spin fishing when you arrive, while they’re full of energy, then chuck out a bait fishing rig when it’s time to have a break and a snack. Take plenty of snacks and drinks; when it comes to bait fishing, make it almost like a picnic. The longer you can drag out their patience, the more time you have to help them be successful at catching a trout. Being successful is a big part of getting young ones hooked; you should aim to have caught a trout by your third outing. Lastly, emphasize that fishing is fun – catching is a bonus. Take items to allow them to enjoy other aspects of the outdoors: binoculars for bird-watching perhaps, or nets to catch both aquatic and terrestrial insects – they might even get some fresh bait! West Coast Fish & Game have been running junior skills and information sessions around the Coast. If you’re keen to come along, or you have any questions, get in touch – we’d love to help.
RIGHT: JUNIOR ANGLERS TRYING THEIR LUCK IN THE GREY RIVER, FOLLOWING A SKILLS AND INFORMATION SESSION
AN AREA OF UNCERTAINTY OFTEN But it must be noted though that any Do You Need A ARISES WHILE FISHING AT RIVER angler using fishing gear that is likely Licence? MOUTHS. Many anglers at West Coast to result in trout or salmon (sports river mouths who are legitimately fish) being caught in freshwater targeting kahawai do not require a requires a sports fishing licence. GLEN NEWTON Field Officer sports fishing licence. Kahawai fishing The interpretation section of Schedule is very popular with families, and One in the sports fishing regulations provides a pathway for beginning states that all waters within 500 anglers to get into fishing. metres of a river mouth at low tide are classed as freshwater. Any sports fish incidentally caught whilst kahawai fishing must be released as quickly as possible.
ISAAC WILLIAMSON AND FATHER SIMON WILLIAMSON FISHING AT THE KARAMEA RIVER MOUTH
80 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: WEST COAST
Targeting High Fish CHANGES IN REGULATIONS FOR 2019/20 SPORTS FISHING Densities on the ON THE WEST COAST: West Coast 1. The salmon bag limit has been reduced to 1 fish per HIGH FISH DENSITIES ON THE WEST COAST are typically found in stable lowland day, reflecting efforts to try rivers and shallow lakes. The key to this high trout density is a good food supply, and manage the declining in combination with ideal habitat. High fish density populations primarily recreational salmon fishery consist of small to medium trout, which make great sport and table fish. We on the West Coast (covered encourage anglers to target these sites, as their populations can sustain high in note 1 of West Coast angling pressure and harvest. regulations).
Blind fishing is productive when of aquatic invertebrates. When a trout 2. Lake Ianthe has been added targeting high densities, as any likely is directly below riffles it’s in a position to the list of South Westland trout-producing water will hold a fish or to eat any invertebrates that dislodge lakes open for salmon from two. Therefore the key to tapping into without expending much energy. Oct 1 - Mar 31 (covered these fisheries is learning how to identify Side braids, joining tributaries and in note 2 of West Coast what holding water looks like. You’re especially the combination of them regulations). looking primarily for water that will both all provide locations you should enable the fish to obtain as much food, also consider when targeting trout on 3. The minimum size limit for with as little energy, as possible. The large rivers. both salmon and trout on rest comes down to a few environmental But the best way for you to really get lakes Ellery, Moeraki, Paringa, variables and safety. to know where these fish hold is, when Mapourika and Ianthe has For lakes, the inflowing streams conditions allow, to observe trout; once been increased from 250mm provide a great food source – especially you’ve done it for a couple of outings, to 350mm (covered in note in flood – so target them. Target shallow you’ll start to understand the pattern. 3 of West Coast regulations). weed beds also; they’re full of life and The remainder of the West the predators we know as trout love to ABOVE LEFT: MARCUS ALLAN FINDING Coast region still has no size hunt around them. SUCCESS USING SOFTBAITS AROUND limit. Rivers are easier to read, and if you’re WEED BEDS IN LAKE BRUNNER strategic about where you fish, you’ll 4. New River, including the find success in them too. Again, think ABOVE RIGHT: FIND THE HOLDING estuary and the adjoining about where fish hold and ensure you WATER – FIND THE FISH! Saltwater Creek estuary, is fish those areas heavily. The eye of a open below State Highway 6 pool is always a good start, because BAYLEE KERSTEN Field Officer from Oct 1 – Sep 30. the riffles above them are packed full
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 81 REGIONAL VOICE NORTH CANTERBURY
Another Mouse Year! MONITORING OF BEECH MASTS dives have also showed that in past mouse don’t have to fish with a mouse lure, INDICATES THAT WE’RE IN FOR A SOUTH plague years not only does the size of fish during the hours of darkness. Although ISLAND-WIDE MOUSE PLAGUE THIS increase; the numbers increase as well! that does work, simply fish as you COMING SPRING. The increased food source means the normally would with spinners and flies Putting aside the negative outcomes river can carry more biomass, which is with good casts first up and a stealthy of a beech mast (and there are many represented not only by the weight gain approach to spotting fish. for our native birds), it will be a big of individual fish – but also by more There is a downside to all this of course year for trout anglers. When the mouse fish staying in the headwaters after – our backcountry rivers can get very population reaches plague proportions spawning, due to the protein-rich food crowded. And social media has made those catchments with beech forests source available there. things worse in this regard, but please be will have mice slipping into the water So how do you catch one of these patient and give other anglers enough and falling prey to large trout. And the monsters? space on the river. Approach other eventual size of some of these trout will Obviously you’ll target beech- fishers and come to an agreement on the become nothing short of obese! Our drift forested catchments. But you certainly day’s plans.
DRIFT DIVE RESULTS
DRIFT DIVE RESULTS WERE LOW ACROSS ALL OUR RIVERS COMPARED TO PREVIOUS YEARS. The drift dive sites on the Boyle, Hope and Waiau had all been affected by bed-altering floods, which had decreased the adult trout lies. But the Hurunui drift dive observed less didymo near the Lake Sumner outlet this year. This could have been caused by a large flood, as the substrate was not only devoid of didymo in places but also the caddis that are usually seen all over the rocks. As a result, numbers in the Hurunui were some of the lowest ever observed.
82 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: NORTH CANTERBURY
Simple Restoration Tools Help To Improve Spawning Stream PROJECT MANAGER EMILY ARTHUR-MOORE is using a range of tools to restore Snake Creek, a trout spawning tributary of the Selwyn River.
These include: 1. Re-battering the overly-steepened banks back to a more gentle angle, to reduce bank erosion; 2. Planting native carex secta ‘low and close’ to water’s edge to shade out problem weeds like watercress, which get established from the bank; 3. Placing boulders and wood in the stream to provide homes for bugs, a.k.a. ‘trout food’; 4. Putting sediment traps in the stream.
While there were still improvements to be made, Ms Arthur-Moore said the bugs were responding well to their home renovations. STAFF KEEN TO SHARE KNOWLEDGE ON who have trout habitat on their land “I’ll pick up a boulder in a fast bit of water STREAM RESTORATION and are keen to improve it,” she says. and it’s crawling with invertebrates like “We’ve learnt so much over the last Contact Emily on mayflies and caddis”. She says this is the few years of the project and we’re [email protected] first step in improving fry survival. keen to share it with other landowners Lake Coleridge Fishing CompetitioN SPONSORED BY HUNTING & FISHING IN CONJUNCTION WITH DAIWA, KOVEA, COLEMAN, JARVIS WALKER AND NORTH CANTERBURY FISH & GAME Ryton Bay, 2nd November 2019 FREE ENTRY This year, the opening of the North Canterbury high-country lakes is Saturday 2 November, and will again be celebrated with a fishing competition at Lake Coleridge, with a great prize pool generously sponsored by Hunting & Fishing.
The focus of the competition is on participation, and every angler who shows their licence at the weigh-in will be in the draw for the many spot prizes.
The event will be based at Ryton Bay, where there’ll be a Fish & Game tent REGULATIONS and weigh station. There’ll also be a free sausage sizzle all day. CHANGES AT A Weigh-in is from 9am – 1pm, with the prize draw around 1:30pm, but please ensure you arrive at the weigh-in before 1pm, to avoid missing out. All fish GLANCE must be caught in Lake Coleridge or the nearby Coleridge lakes, and they Due to a significant decline in spawning must be whole – not gutted – for the weigh-in. salmon the season for fishing for this species has been reduced to 1 December A number of anglers will be camped overnight around the various lakes to to 31 March, and the bag limit is now one make the most of first light, as the wind often picks up late in the morning. fish per angler per day. The Avon River will now be open to Lake Coleridge is the most popular fishing lake in the region, and this event is fishing all year, downstream of a great way for anglers to celebrate the traditional opening day of the high- Barbadoes Street. country lakes. Good luck!
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 83 REGIONAL VOICE SPECIAL FEATURE A New Road To Sea-Run Salmon Recovery
SALMON ANGLERS ARE GREETED BY THE SUN AT THE RAKAIA RIVER MOUTH
IN WHAT WOULD BE A MAJOR CHANGE Waitaki rivers have the strongest runs. spawn. The principle is that a reduction TO HOW THE SALMON FISHERY IS The significance of the reduction in in harvest produces a corresponding MANAGED, a new long-term strategy for salmon numbers that occurred around increase in the spawning population. achieving critical spawning population 1998 to 2001, and the lack of any sign of Increased spawning should produce targets is being investigated. recovery since, demands that significant more juvenile salmon going to sea, and The National Sea-run Salmon actions are taken. an increase in the number of adults Committee (NSSC) made up of The similarity of the trends across returning compared to what would have representatives from all South Island these rivers also strongly suggests that happened if harvest had remained high. Fish and Game Councils and other salmon survival is controlled by common If the spawning population drops recreational groups, has been formed factors. One of those factors will be the below a threshold, harvest regulations to develop actions to restore the wild level of angler harvest. would become more restrictive to salmon fishery. The Committee is Each year the size of the returning increase the proportion of the run that considering a strategy developed by staff run of adult salmon back to the rivers is spawn the following year. If on the other from the North Canterbury and Central predetermined by a combination of the hand the spawning population increases South Island regions. The strategy sets number and size of salmon that go to sea through a threshold, then more relaxed out to protect wild salmon spawning as juveniles, and their survival at sea. angling regulations would be applied. numbers by setting thresholds for the On their return to the river as adults The sea-run salmon populations in number of spawners needed, based on their fate is largely in the anglers’ rivers of the Central South Island and the known historical spawning population hands – the more fish caught, the fewer North Canterbury Fish and Game regions range and minimum spawning population salmon that are left to spawn, and the represent more than 90% of the South size. Between the thresholds there would less fish the anglers catch the more that Island salmon resource, and within be spawning population bands that are left to spawn. these regions the salmon populations would have pre-determined angler catch Where the managers of the salmon of the Waimakariri, Rakaia and Rangitata regulations associated with them. fishery believe they are able to make an rivers have long-term annual population New Zealand’s sea-run salmon fishery is investment in the future of the fishery monitoring programmes for spawning, largely confined to the South Island, where is in more targeted management of the angler catch and run size. the Waimakariri, Rakaia, Rangitata and proportion of the returning run that get to Unfortunately, because of the
84 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND NORTH CANTERBURY & CSI REGIONAL VOICE: SPECIAL FEATURE
The significance of the reduction in salmon numbers that occurred around 1998 to 2001, and the lack of any sign of recovery since, demands that significant actions are taken.
Waitaki River’s extensive braiding and wide distribution of salmon spawning ABOVE: ANGLERS LINE THE BANK OF THE RAKAIA RIVER throughout the mainstem and side braids, our monitoring records for this fishery are currently less advanced than those for the other three big rivers. Both CSI and North Canterbury Councils recognise that using the Waimakariri, Rakaia and Rangitata rivers as indicators of fishery status and trends across Canterbury provides the best justification for introducing management actions, and for showing fishery response to those actions. These fisheries have also historically implemented a wide range of harvest management actions including daily limit bag, area closures, method restrictions, and period closures. To identify the potential level of response by the salmon population to a range of harvest conditions, a salmon population model has been developed for these three ABOVE: SINCE 1994 THE SEA-RUN SALMON RUNS ON CANTERBURY'S BIG RIVERS rivers, using available harvest, spawning HAVE PLUMMETED. and run size monitoring records for every year since 1994. A wide range of harvest scenarios have been run as if they were implemented at the start of this 25-year period. Overall, significant long-term increases in spawning, angler catch and total run population sizes were generated by management scenarios that implemented staged controls on harvest, in response to the spawning population being within identified healthy, moderate or low population bands. For example, the population model applied to the Waimakariri from 1993/94 to the present with 5%, 20% and 40% harvest reduction at spawning population thresholds of 1,700, 1400, and 300 spawners respectively would have provided for an average season catch ABOVE: MODELLED ON ACTUAL SURVIVAL RATES, SHOWING THE PREDICTED RUN INCREASES IF REGULATIONS HAD BEEN CHANGED EARLIER. SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 85 REGIONAL VOICE NORTH CANTERBURY & CSI SPECIAL FEATURE
LEFT: WHAT WE NEED: MORE WILD SPAWNERS BACK IN THE SPAWNING STREAMS. NORTH CANTERBURY FISH & GAME OFFICER DIRK BARR UNDERTAKING DNA SAMPLING OF A SALMON AT MANU- KA POINT IN THE UPPER RAKAIA RIVER.
manage angler catch offers a consistent and simple method of achieving staged spawning population targets. The simplicity arises from the need to change only the size of the bag limit to reach the identified target – rather than a range of different season, area, and timing conditions. The consistency is achieved from its application across the whole sea-run salmon fishery. The NSSC has received support from all South Island Fish & Game regions for implementation of a season limit bag with variation to the size of the bag over the last 8 seasons of 3,900 salmon – during the open season. being the principal method for managing compared to the 1,280 that were actually The daily limit bag for all sea-run salmon caught. In those same recent seasons the fisheries up to 2018/19 has been two annual total number of salmon returning fish, and further restriction on angling, Introduction of a season to the Waimakariri under the modelled using this condition, provides only one scenario would have averaged 7,100 option – a daily limit bag of one fish. This limit bag to manage fish – a three-fold increase on the actual move should increase by about 10% the angler catch offers a historical figure of 2,250. number of fish that get to spawn. How can targets for harvest control be The benefits of reducing the daily limit consistent and simple achieved? are that it applies equally to all successful anglers, it cannot be avoided by fishing method of achieving The Anglers Notice sets out conditions somewhere else, and it may help to staged spawning under which licence holders may fish, redistribute success to a greater number being conditions relating to: of anglers and keep them in, or return population targets. • The size of fish, them to, the sport. • Bag limit, The National Sea-run Salmon • Open/closed waters, Committee and joint discussions by CSI • Fishing gear/methods and and NC Fish & Game Councillors have salmon harvest in the future. However • The hours of fishing. recommended significant changes under until the time when a season bag can the Anglers Notice to salmon fishing be applied, possibly within the next two Of these options, the length of the open conditions for the 2019/20 season. Both years, spawning targets will continue to season, areas available for salmon fishing councils have voted for a one fish daily be addressed using existing area, season, and the size of the daily limit bag are open bag limit and a salmon fishing season method and daily bag limit conditions. for consideration. Area and season-length from 1 December to 31 March. The In summary, the NSSC believes, controls are easily applied and many objective is to achieve a 20% reduction along with the CSI and NC Fish & Game combinations of small changes can be in salmon catch from that which would councils, that a stronger salmon fishery introduced to achieve a required result. occur under a two-fish daily bag, with a can be maintained in the long-term by However, area and season controls are season from 1 October to 30 April, and no management to achieve wild salmon not guaranteed to have the predicted area closures. spawning targets. The process will require effect if anglers displaced by the change These 2019/20 changes are the first spawning thresholds to be developed, in conditions instead fish the open towards management to achieve spawning where each threshold is associated with area or time available elsewhere in the population targets and further controls will specific harvest management actions. fishery. Restricting angler activity to likely be introduced for 2020/21. Then, as the spawning population a specific time of the season may also Current legislation enables the Anglers changes, harvest controls will be triggered. risk adverse effects on genetic variation Notice to set conditions on fishing, but The simplest and most immediate way in the population, through selective gives it no ability to apply a season bag. to achieve spawning targets is to manage harvest of only those salmon present Introduction of a season limit bag to harvest through season bag limits.
86 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
Regulation Changes CHANGES WERE MADE at the most recent triennial review of the Central South Island Region’s sports fishing regulations. These changes will apply for the 2019-2020 sports fishing season starting 1 October 2019. Some changes have been made to reduce harvest and others to increase angling opportunity.
NEW REGULATIONS SUMMARISED 1. All sea-run salmon fisheries • Daily bag limit 1 salmon. • Season 1 December to 31 March. REPLACEMENT PHOTO • Night fishing orf salmon COMING FROM RHYS prohibited. • Winter season closed for salmon fishing.
2.Designated Coarse Fishing Waters • Daily bag limit 1 tench. • Tench minimum size 450mm. • Perch minimum size 250mm.
3.Rangitata River • Daily bag limit 2 trout. 4.Lake Hood • Open all year. Canal 5.Lake Aviemore • Deep Stream arm open all year. 6.Lake Middleton Research • All boat fishing permitted providing they are not being propelled by a motor. Underway THE POPULARITY OF WINTER FISHING AT rainbows. This will help us to understand Please note that the summary THE CANALS HAS SKYROCKETED IN THE the relative importance of spawning in provided is not a full list of the LAST THREE YEARS. Lake Tekapo’s tributaries versus the canal regulations for those waterways. This has raised concerns among local to keeping trout numbers topped-up. It is your responsibility to read and anglers that the fishery has become too To research angler use and trout fully understand your South Island popular and the harvest of rainbow trout, harvest levels during the spawning Sports Fishing Regulation Guide especially those spawning in winter, may period we are undertaking a survey of before fishing. be exceeding sustainable levels. angler use and sports fish harvest on The guide is available in stores Research is underway which aims to the upper Tekapo Canal over the winter as a brochure at the time of licence assess the relative importance of spawning and spring of 2019. purchase and always available online within the canals to trout recruitment. The findings from these research at our website Spawning in the canals isn’t the only projects will be used to make informed www.fishandgame.org.nz way that trout can be recruited in the decisions on the management of the If you are in any doubt over the canals, they also migrate downstream canal fishery and ensure appropriate regulations, please contact our office into the canals from the headwater regulations are in place to maintain a and ask for clarification from one of lakes via the spillways, control gates sustainable trout fishery. our Fish & Game Officers:03 6158400 and power stations. or [email protected] Our research will utilise otolith (ear ABOVE: RHYS ADAMS DISPLAYS 12LBS OF bone) microchemistry to assess natal WINTER FISHING MAGIC! origin of angler caught Tekapo Canal
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 87 REGIONAL VOICE CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
WHAT’S A TENCH? MANY ANGLERS RETURN A BLANK LOOK angler Dave Merritt and picked his brains WHEN YOU MENTION THE WORD TENCH, on how someone completely new to tench unless of course they’re from Europe fishing could go about catching one with where the species is more common. some basic trout gear. Tench (Tinca tinca) are a coarse fish that According to Dave all you’ll need is an were first introduced to New Zealand in 1/8-ounce ball sinker, #14 barbless hook 1867, around the same time as the first (crimp barb with pliers), small introduction of brown trout, so they’re barrel swivel, 3lb trace and a certainly nothing new. standard trout spinning rod. Coarse fishing for tench is limited to Use a sweet corn kernel or a few waterways in the Central South two for bait. Island Region, most notably, Island One basic set up is a Stream, a tributary of the Kakanui River running rig with 30-40cm in North Otago. trace. There’s plenty of info on Tench are also present in Timaru’s the web for these rigs. If you’re unsure Saltwater Creek however the waterway is google it. favoured for its perch fishing. The key is to have your bait on the In March 2019, 50 adult tench were bottom so look for a gap in the weed ABOVE: FISH & GAME OFFICER HAMISH released into Centennial Park Lake in to ensure your bait gets down. Like all STEVENS DISPLAYS A CENTENNIAL PARK Timaru. Tench were absent from this fishing once you get weed on your bait TENCH Photo credit: Rhys Adams waterway since 2009 while a rudd the fish won’t take so retrieve and check (noxious pest fish) eradication project periodically. lead by the Department of Conservation When coarse fishing, ground baiting (only If I had one was completed. permitted in designated coarse fishing It is hoped that Centennial Park Lake water) the area greatly increases your spinner... will once again provide for an easy chances, so bait the area with sweet corn, access but challenging tench fishing little and often (6 pieces every 4-5mins). option in the heart of Timaru. The best time of year to fish is spring So how do you catch a tench? right through summer as the fish are We caught up with local expert tench more active.
Upper Ohau Spawning IF I HAD ONE SPINNER FOR FISHING lakes Enhancement Tekapo, Pukaki and Ohau it would be a brass coloured hex wobbler. THE SPAWNING RUN OF TROUT INTO THE It would be 14 grams in weight and UPPER OHAU RIVER IS TOO BIG! I’d use 8lb braid as my mainline and a Well not really, but the amount of leader of good quality 8lb or 10lb nylon. gravel available is too small. What that I’d fish around shallow weed beds means is that about half-way through and would wind as soon as my lure hit the spawning season all the gravel areas the water, so I didn’t snag the bottom have been dug up and are full of eggs. too much. I’d fish around steep drop-offs To improve the situation and get the with the wind on my back and make huge most production out of the spawning run, cast out into the depths and then I’d wait Fish & Game has teamed up with Meridian a few seconds to let my lure sink before to enhance the spawning gravels. retrieving at a moderate winding speed. Stage one of the project was I’d fish near river mouths all year round completed in the autumn of 2019. and be sure not to fish in the river itself if Meridian and Fish & Game designed and closed for spawning. built two 50-meter long spawning beds I’d even hitch a ride on a boat on in a small side channel. Lake Benmore and tell the skipper to A digger cleaned out the large boulders area over the winter of 2019 and hope take me trolling with a down rigger in from the channel and then tons of ideal to take the project to stage two and the gorge areas around Turnagain and spawning gravels were put in place. three in the future. Black Jacks Islands. Meridian is keen to continue to I’d catch brown trout, rainbow trout fund and build enhanced spawning ABOVE: SPAWNING GRAVELS GET and salmon of all sizes. areas in the upper Ohau, so we will be DUMPED INTO THE EXCAVATED CHANNEL And if I snapped it off on a sunken monitoring the success of the enhanced BEFORE THE WATER FLOW IS RESTORED snag, I’d go buy another one.
88 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
WAITAKI TROUT TAGGING Current Resource Management Matters in the Central South Island Region
ASHBURTON RIVER/HAKATERE MOUTH- ECAN IS INVESTIGATING OPTIONS TO BETTER MANAGE THE AREA. • We support some of the recommendations around wetland development and tighter controls on illegal rubbish dumping. • We will continue to advocate for appropriate access to the river mouth and will work with ECan on these matters to find an approach that protects A big THANK YOU goes out to those recognised values of the area and allows for appropriate access for anglers who reported their catch of a recreational activities. tagged trout in the lower Waitaki River Catchment last season. WALKING ACCESS ACT 2008- MPI IS UNDERTAKING THE 10-YEAR STATUTORY There will still be hundreds of tagged REVIEW. trout getting around in the Waitaki and • We support the purpose of the Act and will be working to gain Hakataramea rivers in the 2019-2020 improvements in its function to secure free and enduring access to the season so please let us know if you outdoors over both public and private land. This includes access with dogs catch one. and firearms for game bird hunting. The tags are a yellow strip of plastic found near the dorsal fin and they have RANGITATA DIVERSION RACE- ECAN GRANTED RDR CONSENT TO INSTALL A NEW a unique number that you should record. FISH SCREEN. Email [email protected] or call • We will work with RDR around the development and implementation of the office on 03 6158400 to pass on the a methodology that enables sufficient data to be collected to confirm number and information like the date and that the new fish screen prevents fish from entering any of the irrigation location caught. infrastructure downstream of the screen and returns fish safely back to the The fish were originally captured with Rangitata River. the help of the Waitaki Volunteer Salmon Hatchery crew. WAITAKI CATCHMENT WATER ALLOCATION REGIONAL PLAN- ECAN HAS We were able to tag 566 trout as SCHEDULED THIS REVIEW FOR 2022. they migrated from the Waitaki up the • We are working on a number of projects and collecting data to inform flow Hakataramea River to spawn. requirements for suitable trout and salmon habitat. This information will be Over the 2018-2019 season anglers used when water quantity issues such as minimum flows and allocation are caught these tagged fish all over the addressed at the next Waitaki plan change. show, from the Waitaki Dam to SH1 and through the entire length of the Haka. (SIGN-UP TO THE WEEKLY FISHING REPORT) This tag return information gives us a Keep up to date good understanding of the importance From October to April you can keep up to date with what’s going on in Central South of the Hakataramea spawning run to the Island and North Canterbury on a weekly basis. greater lower Waitaki fishery and builds our case for advocating for appropriate flow Each Thursday afternoon we send out an event information, Council news and more. management for the Hakataramea River. email weekly fishing report to thousands To sign-up to the weekly newsletters of subscribed anglers. visit the “Fishing Media” page on our ABOVE: A TAGGED RAINBOW TROUT WITH The reports cover all sorts of topics website www.fishandgame.org.nzor call THE YELLOW TAG SHOWN IN THE RED including weather and river flow forecasts, our Temuka office on 03 6158400 and CIRCLE. Photo credit: Rhys Adams angler catch reports, tips, project updates, we’ll get you sorted.
Reliable canal baits The most reliable, easy to use and consistently successful baits to use at the canals is shrimp or prawn. They are crustaceans (not fish) and are legal bait as defined in the first schedule of the Sports Fishing Regulation Guide. You can pick them up frozen or fresh at supermarkets and it's best to keep them in a chilli bin or refrigerated on your trip. To simplify your bait rig we suggest only rigging up one single hook with a single piece of shrimp or prawn threaded on.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 89 REGIONAL VOICE OTAGO
Restoring Rivers in Central Otago HOW TO Have Your Say A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO MAKING A SUBMISSION
1. TURN UP: People often underestimate their power. No matter how small the effort, writing a submission, attending a hearing or joining an appeal can make a difference. GALLOWAY IRRIGATION 2. STAY ON POINT: TAKE (LARGER FLOW Council staff get ranted at a lot, AT LEFT) ON THE so separate yours from the rest MANUHERIKIA RIVER by keeping your submission short and to the point. Use evidence, RIVERS IN CENTRAL OTAGO DON’T LOOK THE WAY THEY SHOULD, but people often photographs and local knowledge don’t notice because it feels like they’ve always been this way. For the last 100 years wherever you can, to drive your or so however, commercial abstraction for gold mining and, later, irrigation has point home. turned our rivers from a powerful force to a shadow of what they once were.
3. ASK AROUND: Consider the Galloway irrigation take in abstraction will cease to exist come 2021. You don’t have to be in this the Manuherekia, shown above: water Before then, all permit holders must apply alone. Councils and the MfE for irrigation is diverted off to the left, for RMA consents. Fish & Game is a key provide handy guides to help you with just a trickle remaining in the river player in these processes, pushing for the through, and organisations like on the right. Observations on the day restoration of degraded ecosystems. Fish & Game or environmental suggest that the water below the take is This is a once in a lifetime re-allocation societies are great sources of shallow and full of algae; it’s difficult to of water and your contribution can make information and assistance. expect that a fish travelling downstream a real difference. would choose to stay in the river when Over the coming year, the ORC will be 4. KEEP INFORMED: it’s so depleted. asking for submissions on several plan Let someone else do the running The ecological effects of over- changes and applications relating to around. Subscribe to updates allocation are ongoing – but we do water management in Central Otago. With from your regional council to have an opportunity to fix the situation. public support for the environment, we effortlessly stay informed. The ORC is undertaking plan change can create real change on the ground. We processes to work out how to manage can restore ecosystems that have been 5. SUBMIT YOUR WAY: Central Otago catchments in the future, degraded for generations and, with this, Often a Council will accept and the permits which allowed excessive restore recreation opportunities for all. emails, letters or even handwritten notes. Ask if you can write a submission in the form you’re most comfortable with. BACK COUNTRY FISHERIES UPDATE Did you know…
• There are nine designated Back Country (BC) fisheries in Otago; Greenstone River, Caples River, Dingle Burn, Upper Lochy River, Nevis River, Hunter River, Young River, Wilkin River and the Upper Pomahaka River • All necessary information can be found on our website https://fishandgame.org.nz/otago • You require a full season licence to fish them • The Dingle Burn has a no-fly (aircraft!!) zone from Nov 1- 4 and Dec 24 – 4 Jan • Access to the Hunter Valley and Hawea Conservation Park has been enhanced through a public access agreement between the Department of Conservation SPOT THE FISH FEEDING IN THE DINGLE BURN and Hunter Valley Station. http://www.huntervalleystation.co.nz/hawea-conservation-park.html 90 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: OTAGO
Keeping it Local
DON’T OVERLOOK SMALL URBAN WATERS FOR WE ARE INCREDIBLY LUCKY IN OTAGO WITH THE YOUR NEXT FISHING ADVENTURE. ABUNDANCE OF FISHING OPPORTUNITIES RIGHT ON OUR DOORSTEP. Unfortunately, jumping in the car and heading out of town is almost a ritual for some anglers – me included! But the perception that the ‘grass is always greener’ or, more accurately, the ‘fishing’s always better’ if you’ve travelled hundreds of kilometres to access some out-of- the way, backcountry stream, doesn’t always hold true. Dunedin’s Leith is a prime example: the lower section is home to some cracker resident brown trout, and salmon still make a run in the Autumn. Spin fishing reigns supreme in the tidal sections, with black and gold paddle tail soft plastics doing the business. I still recall catching a 5 or 6 pound trout out in front of the clock-tower of the University of Otago when studying there in the early ’90s, and Dylan’s fish (opposite) shows they’re still around! So, make sure you do some exploring close to home this season – you may be surprised by what you find lurking in the shadows of your local stream.
LEFT: DYLAN BOOTH WITH A NICE BROWN FROM THE LOWER LEITH
Kaikorai Stream DR SIMON MCMILLAN HOD Science, Kaikorai Valley College
KAIKORAI VALLEY COLLEGE continues its educational programmes focussed on environmental awareness and action. Currently the school is developing an Urban Farm (https://www.facebook.com/urbanconceptfarmKVC/) to get students to learn differently about Science and Technology, with the theme of Sustainable Agriculture. Our own students and those from local primary schools are visiting our site and exploring Kaikorai Stream and its small tributaries. Shifting people’s mindsets about how they interact with streams is essential for urban dwellers to understand how to act to improve water and habitat quality in our country. Otago Fish & Game staff have supported our educational initiatives for over 15 years; without their enduring commitment to the staff and students of this and other schools, we wouldn’t have been able to offer the ABOVE: LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS PREPARING FOR A quality learning opportunities that we have available. ROUND OF TESTING
SOFT PLASTIC (SOFTBAIT) FISHING CLINICS Come Along to Learn Something New
Otago Fish & Game are offering two clinics to help beginners, and those with a bit more experience, to improve their softbait fishing. The clinics will be on the Manuherekia in Alexandra on 24 November and on the lower Taieri on 15 December. Each one will run for approximately 1½ hours, with a short talk and demonstration. Experienced anglers will be there to help out also; so to register, follow the link and enter your details: www.surveymonkey.com/r/QL37Z73 SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 91 REGIONAL VOICE OTAGO
Bullock Creek IT’S A LONG TIME SINCE TROUT AND SALMON WERE THE OLD WANAKA TROUT HATCHERY TAKES ON REARED AT THE WANAKA HATCHERY, to supplement fisheries around the Otago region. A NEW LEASE OF LIFE The hatchery was decommissioned in 2003 and all that’s left of it is the ponga pond used for brood rearing, and some of the aged concrete raceways where fish were reared in their thousands. Since those days however the Wanaka community and Te Kakano Aotearoa Trust volunteers have planted over 2000 native shrubs and grasses around the site, which will clearly be a haven for native flora in years to come. To complement the restoration project a boardwalk has been constructed for public use; it traverses old hatchery rearing ponds and the wetland where the new plantings abound. Bullock Creek meanders through the site, and trout are regular visitors during the April- September spawning season. A new group, “Friends of Bullock Creek” (FOBC), which formed in September 2018, are community guardians for the creek and their efforts will ensurethat the area is VOLUNTEERS PLANTING ALONG enhanced and maintained for the continuing benefit of BULLOCK CREEK the whole Wanaka community for generations to come.
Lake Wanaka Salmon JANE FORSYTH WITH A SCARCE AS HENS’ TEETH SALMON AND A RAINBOW TROUT Photo credit: Ian Turnbull ANGLERS ACROSS THE SOUTH ISLAND HAVE BEEN HELPING COLLECT DOZENS OF SALMON SAMPLES from rivers and lakes as part of a genetic study investigating the differences in populations of chinook salmon Plenty of samples have been collected from anglers fishing Lake Hawea and Lake Wakatipu; however, getting samples from Lake Wanaka has been harder. Fish & Game staff have managed to obtain just two samples, all from salmon caught at the head of Lake Wanaka in April and May. These fish are mature three-year-old chinook salmon which were spending time around the top of the lake prior to heading up the Makarora River and into its tributaries to spawn. But although a number of spawning surveys have been conducted in this Makarora catchment over the past three seasons, no salmon spawning areas have been identified. To improve our understanding of this population we need to collect another 12 or more samples in order to run the genetic testing. So, although salmon in Lake Wanaka can best be described as scarce over the past five seasons, anglers are encouraged to keep any salmon samples from that lake and record date caught, weight, length and sex. Contact Fish & Game staff for collection of your salmon head, which can be kept frozen prior to collection.
From the Archives, 100 years ago The Manager of the Otago Acclimatisation Society hatchery, Mr Deans shows Mr R. Chisholm (president) and Mr D. Russell (secretary), ova stripped from the large trout at left, taken from the Water of Leith. The fish at right is a fine male, weighing about 18lbs.
92 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: OTAGO
LAKE WANAKA ANGLER Upper Taieri Wetland SURVEYS Management
ABOVE: PROUD ANGLER SHOWING OFF HIS CATCH ON LAKE WANAKA THE UPPER TAIERI SCROLL-PLAIN IS OF INTERNATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE AND WORTHY ANGLER SURVEYS ON LAKE WANAKA have OF SPECIAL MANAGEMENT been ongoing since November 2018 in order to better understand the fishery. THE OTAGO FISH AND GAME COUNCIL good land management practices. On four randomly selected days are assisting with the establishment Much of the wetland remains under each month, Fish & Game staff, with of a farm-led group to improve the private ownership, and is grazed. These the assistance of volunteers, have management of the Upper Taieri grazed areas retain significant wetland been interviewing anglers, recording wetland complex. and biodiversity values; light grazing can licence information, fishing time, angling Loops, oxbows, ponds and channels help control pest plant and introduced methods, and catch details. lying in the centre of the Maniototo grass swards. Improving public access and For the eight months to June, 121 and Styx basins make up New Zealand’s identifying rare plant communities are anglers were interviewed, covering 140.5 only true scroll plain. This complex is of other goals. hours’ angling effort and a total catch of national and international geological/ A pest plant plan aimed at eradicating 32 fish – 1 fish caught for each 4.4 hours’ landscape significance and presents a willows from the Styx basin and angling. 72% of the angling was trolling, particularly dramatic image, especially maintaining control elsewhere will be which accounted for 81% of the total when viewed from the air. Large wetlands integral. catch. No bait fishing was recorded. such as this provide a number of Of course, these goals can only be From combined angling methods ecological functions such as sediment achieved on the landscape scale with including fly, spin and trolling, anglers and nutrient capture – plus water co-operation from landholders and other returned 53% of their total catch. retention, which helps to moderate flood statutory bodies. Already several farmers While the survey is only in its early and low flow events. and representatives from DoC, ORC and stages these preliminary results have Improving downstream water quality the Walking Access Commission have indicated less angling pressure than and supply has both environmental and indicated they would like to be involved. expected – but weather plays a key role in economic benefits. A general goal will If you’re interested in finding out more, allowing anglers to get out on the lake. be to improve the functioning of the please contact Morgan Trotter: Rainbow trout will be in abundance ecosystem by sharing and promotion of [email protected] at river mouths over the spring and – fingers crossed – a calm summer is on the make. Trollers - trust your sounder, ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LAKE SNOW fish deeper with plenty of lead line out, DR MARC SCHALLENBERG – University of Otago and throttle back to allow lures to sink, or use a downrigger. LAKE SNOW (ALSO KNOWN AS LAKE SNOT) IS A NUISANCE SLIME that is produced by a planktonic alga that has to date invaded many of Otago’s large, deep lakes (including Wanaka, Wakatipu, Hawea, and Dunstan). The alga (a diatom called lindavia intermedia) is a nuisance to fishermen trolling in the lakes, to boaties, and to the sourcing of municipal water supplies from the lakes. When lake snow has been particularly abundant, it has also affected hydropower generation at Tekapo. Lake snow was first reported by fishermen in Lake Wanaka in 2004, and current research aims to develop accurate methods of measuring and monitoring the slime content of lake water, and chemically characterising the slime material. Researchers are also working to identify hotspots and critical times of lake snow production within the lakes, and to provide early warning of severe lake snow blooms. The Check/Clean/Dry protocol used with didymo will also help reduce the spread of lindavia throughout our lakes. LEFT: A SAMPLE OF LAKE SNOW COLLECTED FROM LAKE WANAKA Photo credit: Marc Schallenberg
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 93 REGIONAL VIOCE OTAGO
ANGLER PROFILE: YVETTE KOSICK YVETTE MOVED TO QUEENSTOWN FROM complementary activity where she would PERTH, AUSTRALIA IN 2011, with her enjoy walking and exploring the riverside, partner of 20 years, Fraser Hocks. while Fraser was fishing. All was fine until She’d never had any interest in fishing, she started encountering river crossings even though Fraser is a passionate and gorges; then, the walking appeal angler – but the move to New Zealand became a bit problematic. was the catalyst for her trying the In order to continue her exploring sport of fly fishing. Yvette bought some wading boots ... Yvette realised how revered New and this, she says, was the turning point. Zealand was as a fishing destination – Being actually in the river was when the guys from all over the world that think fascination with fishing really began. this is a trip of a lifetime. Obviously there In 2015 her biking interests were must be some appeal there ... so she parked, and a new-found appreciation was thought she’d give it a try. born for stalking wild fish and exploring But rather than hit the ground running the rivers that wind through these YVETTE WITH A LOVELY OTAGO with all of Fraser’s hand-me-down fishing incredibly picturesque Otago landscapes. FIVE POUNDER CAUGHT ON A gear Yvette describes the beginning as a The first season was learning the HUMPY DRY FLY
YVETTE’S TOP FIVE TIPS: gear, learning to cast – and not catching If you’re a woman, and Yvette’s story has got you thinking about giving fly any fish. It was in the second season fishing a go, here are her top five tips to help get you started. that things started to click: fishing with nymphs, getting closer to the fish and Get some fly casting lessons – not being able to cast will hold you back. 1. fishing smaller water where casting 2. Go fly fishing with people who know what they’re doing (clubs are full of shorter lines is easier. helpful enthusiasts). The perseverance paid off and catching 3. Get the right fly fishing setup that suitsou. y that first trout by herself produced a great feeling of satisfaction. Since then Yvette 4. Being on a family licence the first year meant that Yvette couldn’t fish has been learning to spot the trout and by herself without Fraser, as he was the primary licence holder. Now her she loves it when she can show Fraser one advice is “Own that licence, and keep your independence!” he hadn’t seen! She likes being innovative, 5. There are other female fly anglers out there. and enjoys the challenge of casting into Find them, meet them, fish with them. hard places. School Holiday Options
AS YOU READ THIS, the school holidays will 1 RELAX! - Leave problems behind, 5 HELP SOLVE PROBLEMS - Lines only be a few days away. There’s no better and take along a smile, an open tangle. Hooks get snagged. Fish way to keep the kids entertained than by mind and a lot of patience. stop biting. By working with you taking them fishing – and we’re lucky in to solve these problems and figure Otago to have a huge amount of water BASICS FIRST - Simple equipment out what may be causing them, open from the 1 October, much of it easy to 2 in good working order will help children will be learning what they access and close to population centres. avoid frustration. can try in the future. STEVE’S TIPS FOR 3 MAKE IT FUN - A fun, safe time is 6 BE FLEXIBLE - If your child is just SUCCESSFUL TRIPS more important than the size or too excited to sit still while bait Few things match the excitement of a number of fish. fishing, change tactics. Try a lure first fishing trip. The natural setting, the they can cast and retrieve. anticipation and mystery of what may TEACH SKILLS ... PATIENTLY. be in the water and the opportunity to 4 share it with you, make it a special mo- One challenge of fishing is 7 BE RESPONSIBLE - You are a role ment in a child’s life. Here are a few tips mastering skills. Help the model, so set a good example. about how to enhance that experience, kids learn, rather than doing and keep your young companions eager everything for them. 8 DON’T STAY TOO LONG - ”Always to come out again: leave `em wanting more.”
94 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: OTAGO
OTAGO RANGER BRIAN HUTTON PROFILE: COLLECTING WATER FOR BRIAN HUTTON TESTING Born on the June 7, 1938 in Timaru, Brian has seen his fair share of changes to the NZ way of life. His family had one of the only radios in the district at that time, and his earliest memory is of the neighbours coming around to listen for updates on WW2. He was fortunate to have several keen fishing uncles who would take him out on the Opahi and Pareora Rivers, which were magnificent fisheries. Even then though, one uncle would talk of the good old days when the bag limit was 75 per day, more than most people get in a season now! But Brian was always destined to be a farmer, and left a solid banking job to start as a modestly-paid farm labourer. His big break came when he moved to Te Horo, met his lovely wife Rosalie and managed to secure a sharemilking position. After this, he was able to get Useful into dairy farming and later orcharding. Brian’s ranging career began in In the early nineties, Brian decided to 1993 and he spent nine years as a Otago links give salmon farming at the canals a go. CSI F&G Councillor. When he started, The early farm salmon didn’t do well, most locals wouldn’t think of buying a EVERYTHING FROM but by selective breeding, they were able licence, but over time he gained their FACEBOOK TO REPORTING to develop fast-growing stock with good respect and licence numbers increased. POLLUTION handling tolerance. His salmon farm was Now living near Milton, he helps run the first to make a profit and in 2006 it the family dairy farm and the community OTAGO FACEBOOK PAGE won an FMG award. water quality sampling programme. The latest information and news from the Otago office www.facebook.com/Otagofishandgame ORC POLLUTION HOTLINE – Phone 0800 800 033 to report any School Holiday Options suspected pollution, or https://www.orc. govt.nz/managing-our-environment/ RIGHT: A FAMILY AFFAIR waste-and-hazardous-substances/ UP AT DUNEDIN’S SOUTHERN RESERVOIR pollution/report-pollution ORC WATER MONITORING AND ALERTS Find out if your favourite river is up/down or just unfishable https://www.orc.govt.nz/managing-our- environment/water/water-monitoring- and-alerts 9 DON’T MAKE THE FIRST TRIP commitment that you make. ORC HAVE YOUR SAY YOUR LAST - Plan another trip. Keeping that promise will Make a submission online Talk together about what was fun strengthen your relationship. https://yoursay.orc.govt.nz/ and rewarding, and what was bad WAMS – Find out what land is public and boring, so you can make the 11 REMEMBER, EACH CHILD IS or private https://www.wams.org.nz/ trip even better next time. DIFFERENT and will respond PublicAccessAreas/ differently to the fishing LOCAL BODY ELECTIONS 10 KEEP THOSE PROMISES - A experience. Keep an open mind, go Make sure you’re enrolled to vote in the promise to take a child fishing with the flow and, above all, have a upcoming local body elections is as important as any other good time! https://www.vote.nz/
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 95 REGIONAL VOICE SOUTHLAND
SOUTHLAND Trout instinctively BRACKISH-WATER know that an BROWNS incoming tide means a smorgasbord of food is COHEN STEWART, Field Officer on its way, so they will EVER SINCE I WAS A YOUNG ANGLER, THE often begin actively DYNAMIC NATURE OF ESTUARIES HAS FASCINATED ME. The tides are ever- foraging. changing, winds can be gale-force or non-existent, and there is an abundance of fish and bird life that come and go with the tides and seasons. These factors, coupled with the large and numerous trout that inhabit Southland estuaries, have made targeting brackish water browns one of my favourite types of fishing. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to increase your likelihood of success. Undoubtedly, the most important variable are the tides. Inhabitants of difficult. For example, at high tide estuaries trout can often be found chasing bait fish estuaries set their body clocks by them. are a very large waterbody to fish and among the rushes or seeking out crabs For example, an incoming tide spurs the it’s hard to cover the water effectively. and juvenile flounder in surprisingly movement of baitfish from the ocean Fishing the low and early incoming tide is shallow water. Top lures include smelt-like into the estuary and encourages crabs much more manageable, as the trout are softbaits, rapalas and silver Toby lures. to venture out of their burrows to feed. concentrated into a smaller area. If you do catch a brackish-water brown, Trout instinctively know that an incoming When fishing in estuaries, keep an eye it’s well worth taking for the table. These tide means a smorgasbord of food is on out for deep channels and fish a lure or estuarine fish have been eating a top diet its way, so they will often begin actively softbait close to the bottom. I find that of crabs, bait fish and juvenile flounder, foraging; a prime time to target them. I get most of my takes five or so metres and are typically in superb eating Tides are also important because they from the edge of a channel. However, condition, so get out among them this can make an angler’s job easy or more don’t neglect to fish the shallow areas; coming season.
Harvest A Trout For Tea
EVERY YEAR WHILE OUT CHECKING FISHING LICENCES, Fish & Game staff regularly come across anglers who’ve had some success and who promptly tell us they only practise catch-and-release. Catch-and-release certainly has its place, such as when the fish is in poor condition, or in a particularly sensitive fishery. However, many streams, rivers and lakes in Southland can easily handle some angler harvest and it’s important to remember that catching a trout for tea is an essential part of the hunter-gatherer process. This season, make sure you harvest a fish or two and to get the best out of your trout, keep these tips in mind: 1. Bleed and gut your fish as quickly SPICE UP YOUR TROUT as possible, before putting it on ice. Carry a chilly bin or cooler bag Have you ever tried a spice rub on your in your vehicle. trout? If not, give this one a go this season. 2. Select the right fish for the table. Young maiden fish of around 1kg • In a bowl combine ground coriander, are perfect. Not only are they easy turmeric, cumin and garam masala to fillet, they’re also typically in with fresh ginger, garlic, coriander and great condition. salt and pepper. • Mix the spice rub, then generously coat 3. Become a chef! Jump on Google or your trout fillets in the mixture. YouTube and find delicious recipes • Heat oil in a pan and then fry your trout to really make the most of your until golden brown – but don’t over- hard-earned catch. cook. Delicious!
96 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND REGIONAL VOICE: SOUTHLAND
SOUTHLAND SOFTBAITING 101
Softbaiting for trout is highly effective, but to get the most out of your softbaits, you need to fish them correctly. KEEP THESE FACTORS IN MIND WHEN SOFTBAITING IN SOUTHLAND RIVERS. 1. A light spinning rod of around two metres in length is perfect. 2. Use an appropriate jig head weight. 1/12 or 1/8 oz is suitable for most Southland situations. 3. Rig your softbait so it sits nice and flush on the hook. There should be no bends or kinks in it. 4. When softbait fishing, you can use 6-8lb braided line with a monofilament trace. However, in my experience, 6lb monofilament works just as well and is much cheaper. TOP LEFT: TROUT LOVE SOFTBAITS! 5. Softbait colour is not too important. Don’t be afraid to try ‘crazy colours’. TOP RIGHT: SOFTBAITS ARE DEADLY 6. Don’t just cast your softbaits out and wind them in. Instead, swing them across WHEN FISHED CORRECTLY and down the current while imparting a slight ‘jiggling’ action. ABOVE: DON’T BE AFFRAID TO TRY CRAZY 7. If you get a bite but don’t hook up, be ready for a second take. Because the softbait COLOURED SOFTBAITS feels natural when the trout bites, they’ll often come back for a second take. For more detailed information on getting the most out of your softies, check out this COHEN STEWART, Field Officer link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaGDTQ492ig , or scan the QR code above.
MEGA MAST IN THE FORECAST RESULTS FROM DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION seed-fall surveys Such an event is likely to result in an explosion earlier in the year have shown that there has been the largest in mouse numbers throughout our forests. Mice, beech tree seed-fall in over 40 years. although bad news for our forests and native birds, are great news for trout and anglers. Mice will often end up in our rivers and lakes as they search for food or mates, inadvertently becoming trout tucker.Trout will feed up large on these protein-packed squeaky morsels and put on weight very quickly. If you’re keen to target mouse munchers, your best bet is to go night fishing with mouse imitation surface lures. Dark, moonless nights are the best, so it pays to scope out your fishing spot during the daylight. Cast out and slowly wind in your mouse lure along the surface of the water so it produces a small V-shaped wake. Then hold on tight and wait for an explosive take from what could be a very large trout. Top spots to have a crack at mouse fishing include our Fiordland Lakes (Te Anau, Manapouri), the Mavora Lakes and the Waiau River.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 97 REGIONAL VOICE SOUTHLAND
IN PURSUIT OF PERCH COHEN STEWART, Field Officer
FOR SOME STRANGE REASON, the back. I can’t really get my head around humble redfin perch do not get the their reasoning because a perch’s bones credit they deserve as a sports fish. I will are removed during the filleting process, Seam technology licensed via Orvis Patent 7,770,235 Seam technology licensed via Orvis Patent admit they have a bit of a hard exterior, just as they are for any other fish. with their heavy-duty scales, hazardous Next time you catch a perch, take him dorsal spines and razor-sharp gill plates. home, fillet him, fry him up and I am sure However, there are several reasons why you won’t be disappointed! they’re a superb sports fish and well worth your attention this season. One great thing about perch is that TOP SOUTHLAND PERCH they’re not too smart. They’ll readily take FISHING SPOTS a bait or lure, making them a great fish • Lower Mataura River – try around for kids. Also, perch are a schooling fish, their taste, and it seems some Southland Holtz Road and the end of Rail Bridge so if you catch one, there will be more. In anglers have not cottoned-on to the Road fact, often when you catch a perch, some excellent eating qualities of perch. Those • Lower Oreti River – try one of the of his mates will follow him to the bank anglers who have tried perch will often numerous access points on West as they wonder what all the commotion’s tell you it tastes better than trout! Perch Plains Road. A real hot spot is where about. If your fishing partner is quick have a firm white flesh, with delicate the Makarewa River enters the Oreti. enough, jiggling a lure just off the edge texture, and when pan fried and well- of the bank often results in the capture seasoned, it’s hard to beat. • Waiau River – the Waiau Arm (Pearl Harbour) near Manapouri of a second perch! Some anglers I talk to claim that perch Their best characteristic however, is have too many bones, so they toss them
COHEN STEWART, Field Officer
TOP MAKAREWA RIVER ACCESS POINTS • Where the Makarewa River enters the Oreti on West Plains road (perfect for bait fishing) • Behind Wallacetown (end of Collean Street) • The end of Settlers Road Have A Crack On (off Counsell Road) • Channel Road – roadside river access. ‘The Mak’ Perfect for spin and fly fishing
AS A YOUNG ANGLER I LEARNT TO TROUT- perch. A lightly-weighted worm cast into off later in the season there can be some FISH ON THE MAKAREWA RIVER AND TO these areas of deep water is highly likely great mayfly hatches. THIS DAY I REALLY ENJOY FISHING ITS to result in success for even the most If you’ve not yet had a crack on the TANNIN-STAINED WATERS. ‘The Mak’ inexperienced anglers. Mak, I encourage you to give it a go this is a great fishery because it’s handy Spinning is also a great technique season – it really is a great fishery! to Invercargill, has excellent angler throughout the river. Most lures will work access and there are loads of trout well but I’ve found small bladed spinners which are easy to catch. I want to take and brightly coloured 7g Toby lures to be this opportunity to give you a few of particularly effective. my secret spots, and share some of my If flyfishing is your thing, the Mak is also favourite techniques. well worth a visit. Methodically working a The Mak is very well suited to bait fishing. small gold bead head nymph though any In the lower and middle reaches there are riffle is likely to yield success. However, SONIC-PRO HDZ / SONIC-PRO HD / SONIC-PRO plenty of deep, slow moving, willow-clad there is also great dry fly action to be had. pools which create a haven for abundant During summer, trout will readily rise to populations of both brown trout and a variety of dry files, and as things cool
@redingtongear 98 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND Seam technology licensed via Orvis Patent 7,770,235 Seam technology licensed via Orvis Patent
SONIC-PRO HDZ / SONIC-PRO HD / SONIC-PRO
@redingtongear SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 99 flytackle.co.nz 100 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND