Otago high-country fisheries open on November 1

Anglers should check river levels before setting out for the opening of Otago’s high-country fishing season on Sunday, November 1, Otago Fish & Game says.

The high-country opening gives anglers access to a wide range of rivers, streams and small lakes across the region’s backcountry.

Pictured: Otago’s high-country fisheries are open to licensed anglers from Sunday, November 1, for the 2026-27 season. Photo: Jakub Kanok

“Some rivers are still settling after heavy rain sent torrents down our upper catchments early this week,” Otago Fish & Game officer Mason Court said.

“Before you set out, check river levels, allow extra time on backcountry roads and tracks, and be ready to change plans if rivers are high or discoloured.”

The Dart River in the Wakatipu catchment rose almost 30-fold on Monday night, according to Otago Regional Council monitoring. In the Wānaka catchment, the Matukituki and Wilkin rivers rose around 20-fold.

Fish & Game is reminding anglers to show courtesy to each other as conditions may concentrate fishing on a smaller number of fisheries less affected by high flows.

“Remember to leave a note about your intentions on your vehicle, talk to other anglers on the water, and where possible, share the water considerately.

“With many anglers planning trips away this weekend, rangers will be out patrolling on opening day and during the days beforehand, so don’t jump the gun on closed waters.”

Seven of Otago’s nine designated waters fisheries open on Sunday. The Nevis and Upper Pomahaka have been open since October 1. Anglers fishing any designated water need a designated waters licence in addition to a whole season licence.

Otago Fish & Game’s 2025-26 designated waters survey found satisfaction among both resident and non-resident anglers remained high, with an average of 80.5% satisfied or very satisfied across all nine designated waters.

“It’s great to see anglers enjoying the designated waters and a high level of satisfaction in these pristine and remote fisheries,” Mr Court said.

Mr Court recommended that anglers buy their designated waters licence before they head to remote waterways where they are unlikely to have phone service.

The November 1 season opening also applies to the rainbow trout-only Upper Manorburn Reservoir, and stocked put-and-take fisheries Rutherfords Dam and Hore’s Control Pond in the Maniototo.

Anglers are advised to check the official Otago Fish & Game 2026-2027 regulations for the full list of fisheries opening on November 1.