North Canterbury Weekly Fishing Report - 14th November 2024

Canterbury Anniversary Weekend

With the long weekend ahead, the weather forecast doesn’t look ideal for fishing, but Sunday is shaping up to have great conditions. Take advantage of Friday and Saturday to earn some extra "brownie points" to free up Sunday for a day out on the water. Fishing after a stretch of rough weather can be especially productive, as wave action stirs up the lake beds.

For those fishing in the high-country lakes, positioning with the wind at your back can greatly improve your casting in windy conditions. Look for areas where waves are breaking on the shoreline, as trout often cruise these spots, feeding on food dislodged by the waves.

Rivers may be murky again this weekend, with more northwest rain expected over the main divide starting Thursday. Head to lakes, spring creeks, and backwaters, or explore the lowland streams for better fishing conditions.

If you’re fishing in discoloured water, try using darker lures or flies, which are easier for fish to spot. Don’t hesitate to work along the edges where clear and murky waters meet; fish often sit in these transitional zones.

Lake Sumner Road Update

Lake Sumner Road has been temporarily closed in recent weeks for re-metaling. The latest update is that it should be fully reopened by November 14. For more information, check with the Hurunui District Council or call 03 314 8816. Be cautious of loose gravel after the roadwork and watch for other road users.

Weekly Fishing Tip Video 

This week, we’re diving into the art of trolling for fish. Rusty from North Canterbury Hunting & Fishing shares his expert insights on trolling lakes and other prime fishing spots around the region. He covers a range of gear and techniques, whether you're out on a motorised craft or a man-powered vessel, offering plenty of tips to help you make the most of your fishing adventures.

 

 

Targeting Perch

As summer approaches, perch are becoming more active. There are several locations in North Canterbury where they can be targeted, including Lake Forsyth and the Halswell River.

Weekly Weather Report

Looking ahead to the weekend, anglers may find that Friday and Saturday are best spent indoors. With heavy rain showers expected to sweep through, the Canterbury Anniversary Weekend is shaping up to be a perfect opportunity for tackling those household chores—after all, there’s no better way to earn a few brownie points than by checking off that to-do list!

However, Sunday brings a welcome change. The sun is set to make a much-anticipated return, with clear skies and calm winds creating ideal conditions for a day on the water. If you’ve been itching to tighten your line, now’s your chance. For the best experience, we highly recommend heading up to Lake Coleridge or one of its surrounding lakes. Bluebird days like this don’t come around often in the lead-up to Christmas, so make the most of it! Whether you’re casting from the shore or trolling the waters, it's a great opportunity to enjoy what our stunning backcountry lakes have to offer.

And while you’re out there, why not give some of Rusty’s trolling tips a whirl? After all, even if the fish aren’t biting, you’ll still have a good time—and plenty of stories to tell. So, grab your gear, get out there, and tighten those lines.

To help you plan your fishing adventures, be sure to check the following resources:

• E-Can River Flows: River Flow Data
• Outdoor Access Live Cameras: Live Cameras (subscription required)
• MetService Weather Warnings: Weather Warnings

 

Happy fishing, stay safe out there!

Want to contribute to the weekly fishing reports?

Here at North Canterbury Fish & Game, we are extremely passionate about sharing YOUR angling stories. Whether you caught a massive fish or took your girls and boys out fishing for the first time, want to hear and tell your stories.

 

When you’re out this season don’t forget to take some photos or videos and send them to jmeecham@fishandgame.org.nz with a little back story on your angling adventures.

 

Tight Lines for the Week Ahead!

Jackson, Harry, Caleb & the rest of the North Canterbury Team