Fishing News index> February 2008

WEST COAST NEWS

A curious aspect of human nature is that most of us are quick to criticise and slow to praise. At Fish & Game we get our fair share of negative feedback, something that is inevitable when a large proportion of our work involves Resource Management Act issues and by their very nature there are always dissatisfied parties.

But this year, so far, has provided a pleasant change. In fact I cannot remember a summer when there have been so many satisfied anglers either calling at the office or phoning in with positive reports.

It began early in January when a long spell of hot dry weather induced an early cicada hatch and the trout responded accordingly. At the time of writing in late - February cicadas are still going strong and in such circumstances fly-fishers are in their element. One of the more exasperating aspects of trout fishing is the sight of large fish lying hard on the bottom in deep holes, seemingly impossible to interest. But when large cicadas are on the surface these fish become very catchable, along with the ones that are not normally seen occupying fast water or undercut banks. This season it has been great to hear from young anglers who have experienced the thrill of trout in a kamakazi style feeding mode for the first time. I suspect most will have become hooked for life.

February also heralded the return of sea-run salmon and surveys on South Westland lakes have recently revealed some very happy anglers. The Hokitika and Taramakau rivers have also produced good fish despite comparatively low flows. With the long-range forecast predicting the likelihood of just the odd fresh between now and the end of April salmon anglers should be in their element.

On less exciting matters:

• An application for resource consents from TrustPower for a hydro-scheme on the Arnold River remains unresolved, with the Hearing Panel adjourning proceedings until June at the earliest. Fish & Game and TrustPower have  signed an agreement on a conditions and adaptive management package that has been recommended to the Panel, however a decision is likely to be months away.
• A proposal by Meridian Energy for a hydro-scheme on the Mokihinui River is nearing the public notification stage. Fish & Game has sought additional information from the applicant Company after which a decision will be made on ‘where to from here.’
  

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