Reel Life February 2026 - Northland

River and stream conditions

Staff have been out investigating the eastern Wairua tributaries to see the effects that the flooding in late January caused. Northland experienced 300% of the expected rainfall for January, most of which came down in the severe weather over 17-22 January. Evidence of severe flooding is present in some tributaries, with water levels getting to three metres above normal flow in some places. The Kaimamaku in particular has undergone significant structural changes. Many of the pools and runs have been filled in with gravel and sediment. Bankside vegetation has been washed away in many places and there are new trees and snag hazards in the river. On the positive side, there are plenty of newly formed spots that look good for holding trout as well. This can be an interesting time for anglers – you will need to get out and explore to see if your old favourite spots are still holding fish and find new lies created by the violent flooding. With each subsequent fresh there is likely to be more change as the rivers settle into their new form until the next big weather event.

Image above: A new lie in the Kaimamaku Stream where previously there was only shallow gravel

Currently most streams in the Wairua catchment are running at a good flow rate for high summer and are in fishable state, although some are still carrying sediment and colour. Fish are present and are in good condition. Due to the good flow and cooler water after the rains they are active and are looking up for food. It is a great time of year to deploy a dry fly to rising fish for some surface action. Stalk the banks slowly giving yourself the best chance to spot a rising fish.

While the January rainfall will have breathed some life back into the reservoirs, Whau Valley Dam remains closed to the public due to the discovery of several dead waterfowl. The dam will stay closed until the cause of death is understood. Keep an eye on the Whangārei District Council FaceBook page to see when it will reopen. We will post the notice on our Northland Fish and Game FaceBook as well.

The junction of the Waiariki and Waiotu streams near SH1. Note the difference in clarity between the two

A calm stretch of the Whakapara. There were two fish rising in this pool

A stroppy Whakapara rainbow that took a generic blow fly imitation off the surface

Regulation Changes

No changes to the regulations this season. All our waters are open year-round to all permitted methods.

All river and streams, methods - FSB, Limit - 2 fish

Stocked reservoirs, methods - FSB, Limit - 3 fish

We need your help!!

If you catch a trout in Northland can you please weigh and measure the fish. Then email that information along with the location and fin clips (if any) to northland@fishandgame.org.nz This will give us useful information on the health of the fishery. Don’t worry we will keep your prized spot secret. Any fish catch data submitted will go into the draw for a whole season licence for the 2026-2027 season.

Take the Family Fishing

The new season commenced on Saturday 1st October 2025. The family licence is by far the best value for money licence on offer. A family licence can be made up of two parents or grandparents and up to four of their children or grandchildren under the age of 18. This licence can also be used anywhere in NZ, except the Lake Taupo fishery.

For more information about the new seasons licences check out our website: www.fishandgame.org.nz