Reel Life March 2025 - Eastern

Seasonal Change

Autumn is officially upon us, and while weather patterns don’t always follow the calendar there are signs that the trout are preparing for the winter ahead. Anglers are reporting jacks (male trout) starting to colour-up and develop a kype (hooked jaw) which is a sure sign that spawning action is imminent. A few fish have also been sighted cruising at the release locations such as The Landing, Ruato and the Pipe.

Traditionally April signifies the start of spawning runs on the stoked Rotorua lakes. We noted an early run last year after a cold snap in March. Overnight temperatures have cooled recently but most of the north island has been dry and river systems are looking bony. We still need rain.

The big Rotorua lakes are still producing some superbly conditioned fish up to 4kg although it can sometimes be frustrating to see refusals from picky fish on the sounder at this time of year. Successful methods include softbaits, jigging and trolling. The fish are beginning to sit higher in the water column and some can be seen smelting on the surface so shallow trolling, especially at dawn will be a successful method also. Try a smelt fly and Tassie combination either on straight mono or with a short section of LED type line or a single colour of lead line for results. Overnight surface temperatures are dipping down below 19C and we can expect them to get even lower in April.

Roger Bowden shows off a prime Okataina rainbow  

Lake Rotorua’s stream mouth action has come to an end as a result of cooling conditions. Most of the browns have migrated upstream to commence spawning but there are still good browns and rainbows to be caught in the lake, especially after dark. Floating lines and night flies such as Craig’s and Lumo dolls are the go-to from now on. If you intend to fish the Okataina, Rotoiti or Tarawera shoreline this winter we suggest the use of stout leaders as we are expecting some big, strong fish.  

Traditional patterns such as Craig’s will work well over winter 

Okataina Update

Technical issues have delayed the full operation of the Lake Okataina access gate but it should be fully operational by the time Reel Life comes out. Access to the lake is still available even if the automated gate isn’t working.

This link will take you to FAQ for the gate operation.

The purpose of the automated gate is to streamline access to Lake Okataina.

Datawatch tagged Trout

Tagged trout can now be entered online. Entries go into the draw to win one of 10 free whole-season fishing licences: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QCH5ZR6 

Eastern Region Fishing Diaries – All lakes and streams

Fill in your fishing diaries here to help us manage the Eastern Fish & Game region. Participants go in the draw to win a $100 voucher from Kilwell: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QRSD7D3