Media release from Wellington Fish & Game

Hutt River confirmed as Wellington fishing hot spot

Recent surveys undertaken by Fish & Game staff indicate that Wellington anglers have some great fishing in their own backyard – in the Hutt River.

Initial study of the results from a drift dive survey completed earlier this week, shows the river’s trout population to be in “pretty good shape,”says Wellington Fish & Game regional manager Phil Teal.

Fish & Game carry out the fish-counting drift dives to monitor the health of the trout population in the Wellington region’s main rivers.“Because trout require very good water quality to survive, they’re an important indicator species for the health of our rivers, lakes and estuaries.”

He says “the number of medium-sized trout (1kg (21b)) observed in the lower reaches in the urban fringe from Upper Hutt through to Lower Hutt was particularly encouraging.”

Fish & Game puts the healthy numbers of trout observed down to benign spring conditions in the last two years. “Over this time we’ve been lucky to avoid any major floods after the spawning period, which has resulted in very good natural production of juvenile fish,” Mr Teal says.

He notes that there were a few sections further up the river that didn’t show quite as many fish, “most likely due to low river levels.” Another section further downstream also held relatively low numbers, “probably due to some river control works, but hopefully this effect will only be temporary.”

Mr Teal says that with the great summer Wellington has been having, Fish & Game rangers have seen a rise in the number of anglers – and an increase in successful anglers. And if the settled weather continues for several weeks, the prospects for anglers will remain good.”

He says the Hutt River is a great trout fishery with excellent access which runs through a major population centre.”

The trout season is open all year for the Hutt River, although all its tributaries will close on April 30, until the new season starts on October 1.

All anglers heading out to fish the Hutt River are reminded they must have a current sports fishing licence and be aware of some specific conditions for the Hutt River outlined in the Fish Regulation Booklet.

“We’re pleased to answer any questions about the fishery at our office on:06-359 0409.”

ENDS

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