Reel Life October 2025 - North Canterbury

Season Off to a Fresh Start

The new fishing season is underway across most North Canterbury waterways!
While persistent northwesterly weather has kept our alpine braided rivers running high and discoloured, anglers have still been finding great early-season success in the lowland fisheries. These smaller waters have provided excellent opportunities for those chasing trout in clearer conditions.

With November 1st just around the corner, even more fisheries will soon open — expanding your options for exploring new rivers, lakes, and streams as spring rolls on.

Take a Mate Fishing

Got a mate keen to try trout fishing but unsure where to start?
Take them out to your favourite river or lake and show them what freshwater fishing is all about. It’s a great way to unwind, boost your mental wellbeing, and enjoy some of Canterbury’s stunning landscapes.

There’s nothing quite like watching someone catch their first trout or salmon — and chances are, they’ll be hooked for life! So, grab a friend and share the experience. You might just gain a new fishing buddy for many trips to come.

Lake Coleridge Fishing Competition – Saturday, November 1st

Mark your calendars — our annual Lake Coleridge Fishing Competition is back!
Join us at Harper Campground for a day of high-country fishing and friendly competition.

Details:

• Saturday, November 1st
•  Weigh-ins from 9 a.m.
•  Prizegiving at 2 p.m.
•  Harper Campground

Thanks to the generous support of Hunting & Fishing stores in Christchurch, North Canterbury, and Ashburton, we have an awesome range of prizes up for grabs. Whether you’re fishing from the shore or by boat, there’s plenty of space to enjoy this iconic event. Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled day in the high country. For updates, check out our weekly fishing reports on Facebook or visit our website.

Reminder: Lake Roto Kohatu Seasonal Closure

A quick reminder that Lake Roto Kohatu closes for fishing on October 31st and reopens April 1st.
This closure helps reduce conflicts with other lake users, such as swimmers, during the warmer months. Thanks for doing your part to keep this a safe and enjoyable spot for everyone.

Take a Kid Fishing – Event Wrap-Up

The Take a Kid Fishing event at the Groynes Lakes on September 21st was a huge success!
Organised by the Kids Fishing Charitable Trust, the event kicked off the school holidays in style. Around 800 rainbow trout were released across the four lakes, and over 1,000 people turned up to enjoy a great family day out.

These lakes are open exclusively to children and junior licence holders, with a daily limit of one sports fish per angler.
There are still a few trout remaining, so if the kids are eager to fish, it’s a perfect chance to spend a morning or afternoon outdoors — and maybe even bring home dinner!

Notice of North Canterbury Fish & Game Annual General Meeting

You are warmly invited to attend our AGM. See details below.

Location: North Canterbury Fish & Game, 595 Johns Rd.

Time: Wednesday 26^th November – Time TBC