Fishing Reports index > September 2007

Wanaka Fishing Report

From Richard Grimmett

As is usual fly fishing has been limited over the few months with high country rivers and streams closed I have not too much to report. The weather over the last 2 weeks has been very good with excellent conditions for fishing. With the lakes open all year this has been a good option with the sun shining cruising trout can be spotted. Streamers and nymphs are productive. The river mouths are particularly good for both the fly and spin fisherman  with the rainbows about to head up to spawn. Trolling is also excellent in the areas.

The Clutha River has been in good condition with good fishing particularly in the evening.
With the new season approaching it is time make some predictions as to what the new season will bring.

October.
For the fly fisherman good lake edge fishing using lure and nymph. Rivers running into the lakes still closed, those running out open offering some good nymph fishing.
November.
High Country Rivers are now open with good dry fly and nymph fishing. Cruising trout spotted on the lake edges are beginning to rise to dry flies. Temperatures improving with some good hatches.
December, January, February.
Settled weather. Rivers tend to be lower with excellent dry fly fishing. Sight fishing the lake edges is productive with the dry fly.
March.
Many fishermen prefer March, the weather is not too hot. The conditions are still ideal for dry and wet fly fishing.
April.
Temperatures are cooler. Dry fly fishing is not as rewarding. Wet fly is excellent with well conditioned rainbow trout at their best.
May
Dry fly fishing finished. Still some good lure and nymph fishing.

When conditions are suitable night fishing on the Clutha River is a great experience and rewarding during these months.

For the spin fisherman the lakes and the Clutha River are the best and offer  some good fishing through out the season.
Trolling is productive all season when the conditions are suitable.

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

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