Fishing Reports index > October 2007

Wanaka Fishing Report

From Richard Grimmett

In many locations October is the beginning of a new fishing season. In our area this is not as important as the rivers and streams that flow into our lakes do not open until 1st November.
Since my September report the weather has been mainly challenging with strong winds, some rain and snow to low levels. The rivers flowing into the lake have been discolored and flowing high.
Lake Hawea is rising but still at a low level. Lake Wanaka has risen considerably and is quite high which will be helpful for the new season.

Once again spin fishing has been productive on these with some good catches being reported even on windy days.

Fly fishing has been successful and with the poor conditions most of the time a streamer and a sinking line a good option. On clear days nymphs have been successful.

Rainbows will no doubt be in the inflowing rivers but as these have been discolored I have not had the chance to spot in these waters. The mouths of these have as usual been fishing well.
The Clutha River has been fishing well in the evening for the fly fisherman with some good rises reported. Nymphs have been the best during the day for both brown and rainbow trout. Spin fishing is always a good option during daylight hours.

The Hawea River has been flowing at a good level much of the time making fishing possible.
I have received reports that trolling on both lakes has been successful with good catches
of browns, rainbows and salmon when weather permitted.

The 1st of November is close now and with the remaining rivers opening it will be time for anglers to get prepared for the new season. Once again it is hoped the weather improves and conditions are good as this can be a great time of the year for fishing.

November and December are sometimes underrated for fishing in the Wanaka area but when conditions are suitable it is as good as any time of the year. For me mid November is the time when dry fly fishing begins in earnest and the real excitement begins.

Once again Tight Lines, good luck and with the new season underway there will be plenty more in my next report.

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

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