Otago anglers invited to free soft bait fishing clinics

Anglers across Otago are invited to learn how to catch more trout, salmon, and perch at free soft bait fishing clinics this November.

The hands-on sessions, hosted by Otago Fish & Game and Okuma pro-angler Lance Gill, will be held at two locations:

• Dunedin: Taieri River, beside the red bridge on Taieri Ferry Road, Titri, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Wednesday, November 5.
• Cromwell: Lake Dunstan, McNulty Inlet, from 10am to noon, Saturday, November 15.

Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey said the clinics would cover the essentials of soft bait fishing — an increasingly popular and effective way to target freshwater species.

“Soft baits mimic the movement of small fish and insects, and when used correctly, they can produce spectacular results,” Mr Quirey said.
“Participants will learn about lure selection, rig set-ups, casting techniques, and how to retrieve soft baits to trigger strikes.”

Mr Quirey added that the clinics were also about encouraging people to get outdoors and enjoy Otago’s freshwater fisheries.

“Fishing connects people with nature — it’s social, a great way to spend time with whānau, and good for your mental health and wellbeing,” he said.

“Soft bait fishing has proven highly effective on Otago’s lakes and rivers, with brown and rainbow trout, perch and landlocked salmon commonly caught.”

The clinics are free to attend. Participants are encouraged to register online via the Fish & Game website. They are welcome to bring their own spinning gear and must hold a current sports fishing licence if fishing during the session.

These clinics are part of Otago Fish & Game’s wider efforts to connect Kiwis with freshwater fishing and help anglers of all levels improve their skills.

Please select here to view poster.

Please select here to register.