Fishing Reports index> February 2008

Fish and Game North Canterbury - Fishing Report for Friday February 8th.

Water levels in the main east coast rivers in the region continue to fall, with no respite likely in the foreseeable future. Rain predicted in the alps appears unlikely now before early next week.

The Waiau and Hurunui Rivers to the north are at such low flows that it is unlikely that salmon will venture far upstream in such conditions.

The Waimakariri River with its long estuary has been enticing salmon up as far as the Kaiapoi River, and while fish have often been seen, only modest numbers have been hooked of late.

The Rakaia River, while low at around 119 cumecs, is still a good “fishy” colour owing to the contribution of melting glaciers in the headwaters.

North easterly winds are set to continue, being quite strong at the coast, making things a bit unpleasant for river mouth fishermen. Wind and wave action have combined to make surf casting impossible, with very dirty seas.

The north easterly winds have also been making the larger inland lakes like Coleridge quite rough. Far too rough for safe and enjoyable trolling in smaller craft. A better choice would be land based angling at one of the smaller, sheltered lakes nearby.

On a more sombre note, is the infestation of didymo in the Hurunui River.
Sadly, a report by one of our Rangers recently, showed that the area downstream from the Jolliesbrook to South Branch confluence, could best be described as “ugly”!

If you fish this area please ensure that you Check Clean and Dry all of your fishing gear to help prevent the spread of didymo here and elsewhere.

This is Brian Ross for Fish and Game.

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