Reel Life January 2026 - Northland

River and stream conditions

At the time of writing Northland has just received a phenomenal amount of rainfall, particularly around the east coast. There is widespread flooding in many catchments. The Wairua and its tributaries will be unfishable for several days at least as the headwaters of this catchment took some of the worst of the rainfall. If looking for fishable water the west coast Kaihu catchment will be the place to start as it took the least of the rain and it clears fairly quickly due to its bouldery nature. When the waters in the Wairua catchment come down from flood level and clear up the headwaters will be the place to look for fish as they will be seeking the cooler, shaded headwaters as the exposed main stem gets too warm.

Image above: A trout caught drifting a big cicada fly amongst the boulder pockets on the Mangatu stream in February last year

Whilst the rainfall and flooding will impact the fishability of the rivers for days to come, it is a welcome respite for the reservoirs which will now be full again after being drawn down during the dry spell, putting pressure on the fish to find refuge in the deeper water.

All methods can work at this time of year, especially when the water still has some colour in it after the flush out. Once the waters are back to low and clear a more delicate presentation will be required, using well placed flies or a smaller spinner or softbait. Now is a great time of year to fish big dry flies. Tie a nymph dropper on 40-50cm of leader off the gape of the dry fly hook to add to the effectiveness. This is a very versatile rig to fish, it gives the trout a second option if they are shy of the dry fly, and the dry fly holds the nymph up to prevent it dropping down amongst the snags that are prevalent in Northlands streams.

Don’t be afraid to try big dry flies. Shown are some patterns that are good for the dry fly and nymph dropper combo

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