Reel Life January 2026 - North Canterbury

We’re now about halfway through the fishing season, and it’s certainly been an interesting first half. Unsettled weather and a lack of consistent forecasts have made it challenging to get out on the water. However, for those who have managed to sneak in a few trips, trout fishing on both lakes and rivers has been relatively good.

Salmon fishing has been more frustrating. Many rivers have remained unfishable for extended periods due to dirty water and high flows, making conditions difficult for anglers. That said, once river conditions improve, we’re confident there will be salmon present and opportunities for anglers to get amongst them.

Image above: Caleb with a great brown trout caught in a high-country spring creek)

Compliance Update

Our rangers were out over the Christmas and New Year period, and it was great to see anglers making the most of the fine weather when it appeared (even if it wasn’t often enough!). Anglers were happy to see the rangers, and we’re pleased to report that everyone checked was compliant and no offences were detected, which is great to see. Thank you to everyone for following the regulations.

So far this season, we’ve checked 650 anglers across 30 rivers and lakes. With plenty of season still ahead, we look forward to continuing to see anglers out there doing the right thing.

Harry checking  an angler on the shores of Lake Coleridge

Have You Fished the Designated Waters in North Canterbury?

Designated Waters are managed to help spread angling pressure, particularly from non-resident anglers, ensuring a better fishing experience for everyone. This also reduces stress on fish, allowing them to stay on the feed for longer periods.

The rivers in North Canterbury classified as Designated Waters are:

• Upper Waiau
• Lewis Pass Fishery (including the Hope, Doubtful, Boyle, Lewis, and Nina rivers)
• Hurunui North and South Branches

For more information on these rivers, visit:
https://fishandgame.org.nz/freshwater-fishing-in-new-zealand/fishing-licences-and-regulations/special-licence-options/designated-waters-licence/north-canterbury/

To fish these waters, an additional licence is required:

• Resident anglers: $5 per region, with unlimited access throughout the season.
• Non-resident anglers: A full-season non-resident licence plus a $40 Designated Waters Day licence. Non-residents may fish Designated Waters for a maximum of five days per season per region.

Outside of this, non-resident anglers must fish non-designated rivers or lakes, or Designated Waters in another region under the same rules.

More information on the licensing process can be found here:
https://fishandgame.org.nz/freshwater-fishing-in-new-zealand/fishing-licences-and-regulations/special-licence-options/designated-waters-licence/

These fish can be challenging to catch, so you’ll need to be on your A-game. Make the most of every opportunity—often you’ll only get one or two chances before fish spook or stop feeding altogether.

With around two months of the season still to go, now is a great time to get yourself a Designated Waters Licence and make the most of these backcountry rivers.

Backcountry angler scanning for a cunning backcountry brown trout

Interested in Trout Jigging?

If you’ve been thinking about giving trout jigging a go, we’re currently putting together a “How To” video for anglers keen to learn. Keep an eye on the North Canterbury Fish & Game Facebook page or the Fish & Game YouTube channel for its release.

Jigging success

 

Tight lines,
North Canterbury Fish & Game