Eastern Reel Life April 2019

Although weather and temperatures remain mild, spawning fish are on the move around Rotorua lakes.

Trapping for the collection of brood fish began at Lake Tarawera at the start of April in line with tradition, however staff have been surprised by the number or early spawning fish present so far.

Right: Twelve year-old Shaynon Ramage of the Tauranga Anglers Club caught this 2kg hatchery-released rainbow at Lake Rerewhakaaitu on a TAC outing.

Additionally, some good quality, well-condition fish have been caught.

Last winter’s fish were an improvement on previous seasons and this winter looks to be shaping up well both in terms of quality and number.

Anglers are reminded that rain is the number one stimulus for spawning fish and the first and last hours of light are the best time to fish – so keep an eye on the forecast and get there early or late for best results.

Impressive numbers of brown trout have also been monitored in our Ngongotaha trapping program and the rainbows are also looking in good condition.

The Lake Rotorua tributary streams, especially the Ngongotaha and Waiteti will provide some great fishing opportunity as the weather gets cooler and wetter.

Locals try their luck on the Ngongotaha stream.

Weighted nymphs and small egg patterns slung under an indicator are a great way to start.

The upper section of these streams close to protect spawning waters after June 30^th.

Fishing from boats has been challenging at times – the long Easter break proved to be frustrating for many anglers with ‘tons’ of fish showing up on the sounder but very little on the bite!

Some blamed the full moon but a look at the lakes monitoring buoys showed the thermocline had suddenly vanished and favorable trout temperatures were evident from the surface all the way down to 25m or deeper.

This has spread fish throughout the water column as they chase available food and made them harder to target.

Shallow trolling with smelt flies for the first few hours of the day is certainly worth a try on any of the lakes and shore-based spinning or fly fishing over deeper water will produce fish.

Datawatch tagged trout details can now be entered online here. Entries go into the draw to win one of 20 free whole season fishing licences.

Eastern fishing diaries – All lakes and streams

Fill in your fishing diaries here to help us manage the Eastern Fish & Game region.

Participants go in the draw to win a $100 voucher from Kilwell.

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