Reel Life January 2023

Summer angling now on

Well, the rain has finally stopped, and all rivers are trending down towards their summer low flows.

Northern Taranaki ringplain rivers like the Waiwhakaiho are already there, while south Taranaki waters like the Waingongoro still have a little way to go.

Flows in the Waimarino rivers, such as the Mangawhero between Ohakune and Raetihi and the Manganuioteao are just right.

With these warm summer days, late afternoon water temperatures in the lower reaches of ringplain streams are exceeding 20 Cand early morning fishing or targeting the middle and upper reaches of streams will be most productive.

Cicada are increasing in abundance, and an imitation cast to fish feeding under foam lines or drifted through runs, riffles and pocket water will be a good way to go.

Other bushy dry flies, including a pheasant-tail nymph as a dropper, will also be worth a try.

Above RIght: Summer action on the Taranaki ringplain -photo Curly McEwen.

Try somewhere new

If you’re lucky enough to still have some time off before going back to work, why not prospect a new river or stream?

It’s not uncommon for people to drive past a nice-looking bit of water and think to themselves, ‘I’d love to have a go in there’ well, now is your chance while you still can.

For others who are back at work, why not try new spots out over the weekends?

With Waitangi Day just around the corner, it gives you an extra day on the river.

If you have the means, possibly even spend a day away with the family, like heading to the Manganui o Te ao, just to spice things up a bit.

Check Clean Dry

A lot of us have travelled far and wide this holiday season, so on your return home, if you have recently used your fishing gear in another region or island, please remember to Check Clean Dry.

We don’t want any unwanted organisms or plants in our beautiful Taranaki waterways.

Be safe around the water

As anglers, we love to be out on the water, both with and without a fishing rod.

However, over the recent weeks, there have been a number of water-related accidents that hits everyone hard when we hear about them.

Please be safe and responsible around our lakes and rivers, particularly when crossing the larger rivers; catching a fish is not worth risking your life for; there is always another day and another fish.

Tight Lines

Allen Stancliff, Taranaki Fish & Game.