...... to the June edition of Reel Life.

Whilst many may focus on hunting at this time of year, fishing never sleeps, and there is plenty of news.

At a national level, read about Fish & Game’s response to Meridian Energy’s latest proposals for the Waitaki river. Fish & Game has also awarded its annual research scholarship to Rasmus Gabrielsson who is researching brown trout migration in Central Otago.

Fish & Game Chief Executive Bryce Johnson puts forward some thoughts on sustainable agriculture and challenges the primary sector on its commitment to freshwater.

Around the regions.....The annual Kai Iwi Lakes Fishing Competition takes place next month - a great event with fantastic prizes. Full information is here.

The Rotorua Lakes are producing plenty of big fish. Read more about winter shoreline fly fishing, and some interesting stats about the Ngongotaha Hatchery here.

In the Central South Island, the recent unseasonal weather has given Graeme Hughes a chance to reacquaint himself with winter fishing.

If you are concerned about the Lower Waitaki river, there is new information about the Hunter Downs Irrigation Scheme, and the North Bank Tunnel Concept. Fish & Game Otago urge you to help protect the Lower Waitaki.

Colder weather in Southland is limiting fishing opportunities, but regional manager Maurice Rodway says you might still catch a fish or two.

Regular columnist Hugh Creasy takes a gentle stroll along the streambank in At the end are the rainbows, whilst I report back from yet another fruitless and frustrating experience in The idle thoughts of an idle editor.

Whilst fishing is quiet in many regions, our regular guide contributors have put together some reports of the action that is taking place – navigate to your region of interest via the menu on the left.

Enjoy Reel Life, and good fishing.

Jerry

Jerry Flay
Editor, Reel Life
reellife@inbox.net.nz