Fishing News index> May 2007

West Coast News

Salmon anglers generally agree that the 2007 season on the West Coast was up there with the best, and initial indications from spawning surveys suggest that they were right.

With about a week to go until the traditional ‘peak of the run’ spawning numbers in Lake Mapourika tributaries are already well above average, and fish are still moving into Paringa tributaries. The downside of such large numbers is the potential for ‘double deposition’ – that is salmon digging up redds of earlier spawning fish.

The reality is that spawning habitat is stretched in both fisheries, however the primary limiting factor in ‘Coast salmon fisheries remains the marine environment, and an exceptional spawning year does not necessarily signal another good season 3-4 years hence. We suspect El-Nino and his mate La-Nina have the final say on that.

The Report of the Walking Access Consultation Panel has been released, and Officials will be reporting to Government on the recommendations in August. While there is good news for Fish & Game in the report, the proposed advisory only access agency remains of concern and this has recently been the subject of representations to local MPs.

Fish & Game West Coast, in association with other agencies, is in the early stages of establishing a long - term management programme for didymo in the Region. This is likely to involve using shortly to be released research results to identify ‘most at risk’ catchments and decide on a management response. Whatever the outcome, the most effective means of preventing the spread of this and other unwanted organisms will continue to revolve around the ‘check, clean and dry’ campaign.

Winter fishing

Waterfowl hunters out and about on lowland streams have been commenting on the number of trout observed while waiting for ducks to call in, to the extent that some maintain they would have had more opening weekend success with a flyrod!

Smaller streams and spring fed waters open to winter fishing often produce prolific hatches seemingly brought about by cooler water temperatures preferred by a particular species of mayfly.

The action may only last for an hour or two – around mid-day can be a good time - and often occur in shallow riffles where trout can be easily spotted just under the surface busily taking emerging nymphs.

In lowland waters trout will invariably be maiden fish, not large but always in great condition and usually very catchable.

The best part is that in those West Coast waters that are open to fishing year – round it is possible to combine a hunting trip in May with a bit of fishing, or vice versa.

How much better could it get?

Tight lines and hot barrels!

Chris Tonkin

Back to Reel Life May 2007