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Fishing News index > March 2007
Northland Fish & Game Council Regional Roundup
The evening temperatures are starting to cool off which is a blessing for a good nights sleep but also heralding the time of the year when anglers start thinking about lake fishing.
A drop in water temperatures generally sparks lake and reservoir fisheries into action as fish start to frequent the shallower margins. Perfect for those land based anglers fishing ledges and drop-offs who enjoy the thrill of fishing with sinking lines.
The rivers and streams are still a great challenge although anglers will be aware that these fisheries will close in April.
Reports from these waters have been slow and is probably due to the hot weather and the lure of our northern beaches. We enjoy warm temperatures and perhaps suffer angler disinterest over our warmer months. The dead keen anglers we guess have been having it their own way with little fellow angler competition and plenty of willing fish.
During the recent Dargaville field days one particular angler we spoke to who hales from Kerikeri has been landing some great fish all around the 2-3 pound mark. His remarks on the river fisheries throughout that area were positive and his indications were there were excellent numbers. Access to these waters is the key as a large proportion of these streams and rivers run through private land. An approach to these folks is usually very surprising as entry is usually forthcoming. If you haven’t the time and simply want to explore then ring our office for our growing collection of angler access brochures, which have been produced specifically for angler access. These productions are also available from our northland licence outlets so the next time you’re in an outlet ask for some copies.
On a negative note the Kaipara district council have been lobbying and bulldozing through new requirements for recreational users at the Kai- Iwi lakes near Dargaville. Most anglers who fish Northland will be aware that the lakes are our most outstanding Rainbow fishery and can be accessed by either shore or boat. K.D.C in its wisdom have taken a keen interest in trying to ban the use of motorised boats from these waters. Their domain committee, which has representation for D.O.C, local Iwi as well as K.D.C staff, have in their wisdom decided that this public asset can be changed simply by making their own rules. Whilst powered craft can be an environmental and recreation problem we have been saying that they need to police the area better rather than ban. Limiting numbers using the area at any one time and perhaps imposing a four-stroke engine regime is the answer. Anglers with concerns can contact the Council and request a submission form so you can have your say and perhaps let commonsense prevail.
We will keep you updated.
For now though enjoy the last months of the rivers and streams and prepare mentally for those large fat winter spawners in the lakes and reservoirs. | 
