The countdown begins to trout fishing season opening

Sales of Fish & Game’s new range of trout fishing licences are going well as anglers eagerly prepare for the opening of the trout season next Thursday, 1 October.

Fish & Game has introduced an expanded range of new licences for the 2015-16 season, allowing anglers to choose what suits them best. The nine categories now include licences for anglers 65 and over, and for those just wanting to fish their own regions.

Fish & Game communication manager Don Rood said the response from anglers has been positive.

“Initial sales progress reports point to a few interesting trends emerging. While the family and adult whole season licence are still the most popular, the new loyal senior category is attracting interest, especially in Otago and the Central South Island regions.

“Anglers in the Eastern Region, which includes Rotorua, on the other hand like the new local area licence,” Mr Rood said.

“Licences represent excellent value, with some actually coming down in price this year. And for children under 12, it is even better value as the licences are free.”

Prospects for the new season are also looking good, Mr Rood said.

“Reports from around the country indicate that it has been a good spawning season in most areas, and trout are in fine condition, so anglers will be able to taste success, and a trout dinner, if they get out early next Thursday.

But it is not only dreams of a trout dinner which are luring some anglers.

In the North Island, anglers planning to fish the Rotorua lakes have the chance to win a prize of $25,000 by entering a trout fishing competition being held in the region. The prize is believed to be the biggest offered for a freshwater fishing competition for many years.

In other parts of the country, it is the opportunity of being able to fish scenic waterways which attracts anglers.

“For keen anglers, the build up to the start of the new season is like children before Christmas. They will be tying flies, inspecting their rods and reels and making sure that everything is ready to go for October 1,” Mr Rood said.

However, he cautions people to check the regulations to ensure the rivers they are hoping to fish are actually open.

“Fishing in many more remote, backcountry areas doesn’t open until November or December, so just make sure you can legally fish your secret spot.”

While some parts of the country are being lashed with heavy rain at the moment, river levels are expected to drop over the coming week.

“Anglers will be anxiously checking the long range weather forecasts and keeping their fingers crossed that it will come right by next Thursday.

“With the predicted impact of El Nino over summer, they should make the most of the early season and get out and enjoy the quality angling available throughout the country,” Mr Rood said.

ENDS

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