Reel Life March 2026 - Wellington

March Magic in Wellington Waters

March often delivers some of the most rewarding trout fishing in the Wellington Fish & Game region and that’s certainly been the case this season.

Image above: Des Parker Munn with a Wairarapa brown.

As summer fades, rivers and streams settle into a sweet spot: stable flows, clearer water, and trout that have seen enough pressure to be selective but are still very catchable if you get it right.

In the Hutt, Manawatu and Ruamahanga rivers, we’ve had higher than normal flows but still clean, clear conditions for fishing. This combined with cooler temperatures has meant trout have continued to feed actively and the condition of the fish is nothing short of sensational.

They have seen some pressure by now, but anglers that have opted for longer leaders, careful presentation, and smaller flies continue to be successful. That said, the stellar cicada season, although almost done, means trout are still rising to large terrestrial imitations.

Nymph fishing has been very productive too, particularly for the rainbows sitting in the faster water of Ruamahanga, Otaki, Rangitikei and Manawatu. And anglers have also reported good evening fishing with small mayfly patterns.

Blake Murray has had a sensational season in the Wellington region.

As we edge closer to spawning season, trout have started to move into some of the smaller tributary streams providing exciting, technical angling in tight confines.

Another bonus of the higher-than-normal flows this season has meant spin fishers and those using soft baits have also had great fishing right the way through. These techniques will become even more effective as trout start to get aggressive and territorial in the lead up to spawning.

Looking ahead into April, prospects remain strong right up until the season closes at the end of the month. Cooler nights and the first autumn freshes often spark more aggressive behaviour.

Rainbows begin moving more, and browns feed hard in preparation for spawning. Streamer fishing comes into its own, particularly after rain when rivers colour slightly.

The season is drawing to a close but the remaining weeks of March and April still offer anglers plenty of exciting fishing ahead.