Perfect Weather, Big Turnout for Lake Coleridge Fishing Competition!

• North Canterbury
• 4/11/2025
• Jackson Meecham

Over the weekend, hundreds of anglers from across Canterbury made the early morning trip into the high country for the 17th annual Lake Coleridge Fishing Competition, marking the official opening of the high-country fishing season!

This year’s event was blessed with what many described as the best opening day weather in over a decade, clear skies, calm water, and plenty of fish. More than 100 boats were out on the lake, along with dozens of shore anglers and plenty more fishing nearby lakes like Selfe and Georgina.

Nearly $8,000 in prizes were up for grabs thanks to our awesome sponsors at Hunting & Fishing Christchurch, North Canterbury, and Ashburton.

The results?

A total of 118 fish were weighed in by 91 anglers, the highest number since 2019!

- 47% chinook salmon

- 31% rainbow trout

- 22% brown trout

Fish & Game Officer Emily Craig said it was great to see such a strong turnout and mix of fish species this year:

“It was fantastic to see over 200 licensed anglers at the prizegiving. Both adult and junior categories were awarded, along with a heap of great spot prizes from our local Hunting & Fishing stores.”

Meanwhile, other high-country waters like Lake Grassmere and Lake Marymere also opened, attracting plenty of keen anglers.

Fish & Game Officer Jackson Meecham said:

“It was exciting to see so many anglers not only catching good fish but also enjoying the backcountry environments these lakes offer. Compliance for the day was 100 percent, awesome work, everyone!”

Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate the new season, and good luck to all anglers for the months ahead!

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