Reel Life November 2024 - Otago

Otago
26/11/2024

Above: Lowell Smyth working the tail out on a clear blue run deep in the backcountry. Photo: Quentin Kenning

Clear skies and clearing rivers

The back end of November has brought a welcome stretch of more stable weather with clearer skies and warmer temperatures. This favourable change has allowed many rivers to drop and clear, improving conditions for sight fishing.

Clear rivers present their own challenges. Fish in these conditions tend to be more easily spooked, which calls for adjustments in techniques. Anglers may need to extend leaders and decrease tippet size to avoid detection. This can be important when targeting wary surface-feeding fish.

When fishing with soft baits or hard-bodied lures, try smaller-sized jig heads or lures and lighter-coloured baits. This minimises the chances of spooking the fish during the cast. Be sure to land your lure far enough away to ensure the right presentation and depth.

One important tip to remember is the saying, "Don't forget to fish your feet first." Even in clear water, fish can suddenly appear from the depths to inhale a fly or lure. By starting close and gradually working your way out, you can avoid missing fish.

One of Teviot Angling Club's oldest members, Fred Booth (left), and club president Laurie Crossan cut the cake the centenary celebration in Roxburgh on November 23, 2024. Photo: Ian Hadland

Teviot Angling Club celebrates 100 years

On November 23, the Teviot Angling Club celebrated its centenary. Club president Laurie Crossan showcased historical fishing gear and acknowledged the contributions of past and present members, as well as his hard-working committee. Otago Fish and Game chief executive Ian Hadland spoke about the changes and constants in angling, noting the enduring thrill of catching trout, the need for licences, and the single-rod rule. He also mentioned the upcoming 150-year milestone and commented with excitement about the formation of a lower Clutha sportsfish and habitat trust which will be dedicated to improving angling in the lower river. Laurie Crossan and Graeme Rae were honoured as life members for their significant contributions to the club.

A display at the Teviot Angling Club showing how much fishing tackle has changed over the past 100 years. Photo: Ian Hadland

Fish & Game photo competition

When you head out freshwater fishing this month don't forget to take some pics as you could be in to win your slice of our competition $2,000 prize pool from Kilwell Sports!

Check out some of the other entries and submit your best photo at the link below. Please read the full terms and conditions to make sure your photo complies with the competition rules.

In order to officially enter, you must submit your picture at this link.

Planned works on Mt Aspiring Road

Anglers planning to fish the upper Matukituki River should be aware that in early December, Downer will carry out works to construct a retaining wall along a section of Wānaka-Mount Aspiring Rd north of the Treble Cone access road near Glenfinnan Stream.

Wānaka-Mount Aspiring Road will be closed near Glenfinnan Stream on weekdays for two weeks, including one 24-hour closure so concrete for the retaining wall can cure properly.

For more detailed information click here

Weekly updates

Below are some highlights from our Otago Weekly Fishing Report from the past month. To sign up for weekly fishing updates, please click here:

Lake Hāwea salmon

Late spring and early summer mark a peak period in Lake Hāwea's fishing calendar, as anglers target Chinook salmon as they school up. Here are five tips for this area now:

Focus on Hot Spots: Try fishing opposite the boat ramp at The Camp and The Neck, where salmon are known to gather.
Choose Bright Lures: For salmon, use bright or shiny lures and a slow retrieve to keep them in the strike zone longer.
Reach the Right Depth: Salmon schools are often found sitting 10–15 metres deep in the water column. Use a downrigger or a paravane to get your lure to the right depth.
Enjoy the Rainbows: Alongside salmon, healthy rainbow trout are also in the lake, providing a fun and challenging catch.
Keep It Fresh: Bring ice and a chilly bin to keep your catch fresh, as both salmon and rainbow trout make great table fare.

To watch a video explaining tips and tricks for chasing Southern Lakes salmon click here.

Note that Lake Hawea has been dirty around the mouths of Timaru Creek, Dingle Burn and the Hunter River.

Charlie Lille (5) with his first ever trout, caught on a banana-coloured Toby lure. Photo: Mason Court

Kids learning valuable fishing skills

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for the annual Upper Clutha Anglers "Take A Kid Fishing" event held in Central Otago on November 17. While it seems most fish didn’t get the memo, with only a handful caught, the children still had a fantastic time learning valuable fishing skills from Upper Clutha Angling Club members and Otago Fish & Game staff. As a consolation prize, they also enjoyed a delicious sausage sizzle.

Cromwell Rotary Lake Dunstan Fishing Classic 2024

The annual Lake Dunstan Classic also enjoyed perfect fishing conditions in November. More than 120 anglers entered the competition, with many registering early on Sunday after seeing the ideal weather.

During the weigh-in, anglers reported varying levels of success, and, as with most fishing events, a few secrets remained untold. The consensus was that the most productive fishing occurred toward the top of the lake, particularly around the channels. Techniques included trolling with lead lines, downriggers, and paravanes, as well as spinning from the shore. Many anglers credited the traffic light-coloured Tasmanian Devil lure for their catches. The heaviest fish of the competition was a 2.044kg (4.5lb) rainbow trout with the largest brown trout tipping the scales at 1.888kg (4.16lb).

One thing everyone agreed on was the quality of the fish, with many in great condition —sure to make for a delicious meal.

Participants at the Queenstown soft bait clinic watch and learn with Lance Gill. Photo: Mason Court

Soft bait clinics

Otago Fish & Game’s soft bait fishing clinics with Lance Gill from Okuma proved to be a hit in November, drawing enthusiastic anglers to both Henley and Queenstown.

At Henley, about 75 anglers attended, gaining valuable insights on soft bait techniques before testing their skills on the Taieri River. The event was supported by Fish & Game staff and honorary rangers, providing hands-on guidance throughout the evening.

Meanwhile, in Queenstown, over 30 anglers gathered at the Shotover Delta for another engaging session. After learning about soft bait techniques and gear, participants tried their luck on the Kawarau River. Despite higher-than-usual river levels and a few wet feet, one angler showcased their new skills by landing a silver rainbow trout—a highlight of the evening.

Kinloch Road damage from the November 9 flood. Photo: QLDC

Greenstone and Caples access restored

A temporary bypass around Kinloch Road and the washout is open and available for use.

Drivers are asked to please use the bypass with courtesy and respect for contractors as they finish off further work to help secure the alternative route to Kinloch and Greenstone Valley.

For updates, go to www.qldc.govt.nz/kinloch-road-closure.

Want more info? Check out these links or contact our helpful Otago team. 