Fishing Reports index > February 2008

Wanaka Fishing Report

From Richard Grimmett

January was a mixture of good conditions for fishing and also some very windy days. It was hot and dry which provided low, clear waters in the rivers flowing into the lakes.

On the calm days dry fly fishing was very productive with some excellent trout being caught. Humpy patterns in particular were very successful. When windy and upstream fishing was extremely difficult streamers across and down was also very effective.  The rainbows in particular were being difficult to land, putting up some great fights. When playing these for the first time many fishermen underestimate their strength and try to bring in quickly which has ended with many being broken off.

Fishing the lake edges with a high floating dry fly was also a good option. When windy a sheltered bay is usually able to be found. Timing the strike on these at times has been difficult and frustrating for some fishermen not experienced in this type of fishing.

 As the month progressed some very hot weather was experienced with some very productive dry fly fishing on both the rivers and lakes. With little or no rain the rivers and streams were very low and clear. The only problem was some very windy days.

The first week in February provided excellent conditions with some very hot weather and great fishing. Some heavy rain mid month raised and discolored some rivers but these quickly returned to normal. The last 2 days have been very windy making for tough conditions.

Spin fishermen have been meeting with some success. An option for this type of fishing is to use a bubble with a dry fly. It can be far more exciting than the conventional method and it is possible to reach fish rising at a distance more easily than fly fishing.

Boat trolling has been excellent when conditions are suitable. With the wind and rough conditions on the lakes in the last few days it has been difficult.

Night fishing on  the Clutha River has been very productive.
 
Tight Lines and more soon

Richard Grimmett is an independent fishing guide; his reports are not officially representative of Fish & Game NZ

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