Opening Day Beckons: A Cracking Season Lies Ahead

Jackson Meecham casts a wet fly to a trout during a still winters morning in the region. (Photo Above)

With the new fishing season just around the corner, things are shaping up very nicely across the region.

Winter conditions have generally provided good spawning opportunities for trout, and while the majority of fish have now completed their spawning runs, there are still some fish actively spawning in parts of the region. Overall, recruitment and fish condition appear promising, setting the scene for what could be a very productive season for anglers willing to get out and explore.

The 1 October opening sees all of our lowland fisheries reopen, alongside the region's designated waters. Many backcountry tributaries of our main rivers will also be available from opening day (be sure to read up on the regulations), meaning anglers are truly spoilt for choice when deciding where to begin their season.

While many fisheries open on 1 October, anglers should remember that Lake Coleridge closes for one month over the spring period and will reopen on the first Saturday of November alongside many of the region's other high-country lakes.

Early season fishing can often produce some outstanding trout, particularly in rivers and streams where fish are beginning to settle back into feeding patterns after spawning. Anglers who cover plenty of water, fish a variety of methods, and make the most of favourable weather windows are likely to be rewarded.

With healthy fish, plenty of water available, and a wide range of options open from day one, all the signs are pointing towards a cracking season ahead for North Canterbury anglers.

The countdown is on, don't miss out!

Don't Miss An Update Make Sure Your Following Us In All The Right Places!

Casting Into the Future: Inaugural Women's Fly Fishing Course Exceeds Expectations

Emily Craig, Hannah Clement & Shelen Scout Boyes.

What a weekend it was.

With the new trout season just around the corner, North Canterbury Fish & Game was thrilled to host its inaugural Women's Fly Fishing Course, and by every measure, it was an outstanding success.

Twenty enthusiastic ladies from a wide range of backgrounds came together for a weekend packed with learning, laughter, new friendships, and plenty of inspiration. For many participants, it was their first introduction to fly fishing. For others, it was an opportunity to refine their skills and build confidence ahead of the October 1 season opener. By the end of the course, every attendee had walked away with new knowledge, practical skills, and a renewed excitement for getting out on the water.

At the heart of the event were South Island guiding professionals Hannah Clement and Shelen Scout Boyes, whose passion, expertise, and dedication were instrumental in making the course such a success. Not only did they generously donate their time throughout the weekend, but they also dedicated countless hours behind the scenes preparing content, coordinating activities, and ensuring every participant received the best possible introduction to the sport.

Hannah Clement gives advice on casting the fly rod.

The practical sessions proved particularly popular. With expert guidance from the instructors, participants were introduced to everything from tackle selection and fly choice through to reading water and understanding trout behaviour. The aim was simple: remove the barriers that often prevent people from giving fly fishing a go and provide a supportive environment where everyone could learn at their own pace.

Adding further expertise to the day was certified fly-casting instructor Mark Rodgers from The Fisherman's Loft. Mark volunteered his time to help participants develop one of the most important foundations of fly fishing: casting. It was remarkable to see the progress made throughout the afternoon. Several attendees arrived having never held a fly rod before, yet by the end of the session many were confidently delivering casts and looking more than ready to put their new skills into practice this coming season.

North Canterbury Fish & Game Field Officer Emily Craig also provided valuable insight into the regulations, access opportunities, and angling etiquette that help make New Zealand's freshwater fisheries the world-class resource they are. Equipping new anglers with this knowledge is just as important as teaching fishing techniques, ensuring they can enjoy the sport responsibly and confidently wherever they choose to fish.

Fish & Game Patron Dame Lynda Topp demonstrates a fly-cast.

One of the highlights of the weekend came with a surprise visit from Fish & Game Patron Dame Lynda Topp, who dropped in while passing through Christchurch. Dame Lynda took the time to meet participants, offer words of encouragement, and congratulate everyone involved in bringing the course together. Her support and enthusiasm were greatly appreciated and provided an extra boost to what was already a memorable occasion.

The weekend also highlighted the strength of the wider angling community. Representatives from Women on the Fly NZ, Christchurch Fly Fishing Club, Christchurch Fishing & Casting Club, and Reel Women were on hand to connect with participants and showcase the opportunities available for women wishing to continue their fly-fishing journey. Building those connections is a key part of ensuring newcomers feel welcomed and supported long after the course ends.

Adding to the occasion was Maxine Jacobs from The Press, who spent the day learning alongside participants. Like many of the attendees, Maxine threw herself into the experience and left eager to spend more time on the water. We understand a feature on the course is expected to appear online and in print leading into summer, so keep an eye out for that in the coming months.

Mark Rodgers instructs the ladies in fly-casting.

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of the weekend was seeing the confidence that developed throughout the group. What started as a room full of strangers quickly became a supportive network of aspiring anglers encouraging one another, sharing stories, and celebrating each other's successes. The positive feedback received since the event has been overwhelming and reinforces just how important opportunities like this are for growing participation in fly fishing and helping more people discover what makes our sport so special.

A huge thank you must go to all the women who took the leap and signed up, as well as the volunteers, instructors, clubs, and supporters who helped bring the course to life. Events like this simply don't happen without the commitment of passionate people willing to share their knowledge and love of fishing.

Finally, we'd like to acknowledge the generous sponsors who helped make the weekend possible. Thanks go to Hunting & Fishing Christchurch, McLean Angling, The Fisherman's Loft, and Stoney Creek New Zealand for their support and fantastic spot prizes. Fish & Game was also proud to sponsor the premier prize of the weekend: a place on a guided women's fishing weekend with Hannah Clement and Shelen Scout Boyes in 2027.

Emily Craig assists with casting technique.

For a first-time event, the course exceeded all expectations. More importantly, it introduced twenty new and enthusiastic women to the world of fly fishing, creating memories and skills that will last a lifetime.

If this weekend was anything to go by, the future of women's fly fishing in North Canterbury is looking incredibly bright. We can't wait to do it all again.

Take A Kid Fishing 2026: Creating Tomorrow's Anglers

A young angler reels in success during the 2025 Take A Kid Fishing Event. 

With the new trout season just days away, there's no better way to get youngsters excited about fishing than spending a day on the water, and that's exactly what's on offer this Sunday (27 September 2026) at the Groynes Junior Fishing Lakes.

The annual Take a Kid Fishing Day, organised by the Kids Fishing Charitable Trust, gets underway from 9:00 am and promises to be another fantastic day for young anglers and their families.

Whether it's a child's very first time holding a fishing rod or they're already a keen young angler, the day is all about getting kids outdoors, having fun, and experiencing the thrill that comes with seeing a float disappear or a fishing rod bend over. It's an event that has introduced countless youngsters to fishing over the years and continues to create memories that last a lifetime.

There will be plenty of excitement around the lakes as families gather to enjoy a relaxed day of fishing, fresh air, and quality time together. Events like these are vital for inspiring the next generation of anglers and helping young people develop a lifelong appreciation for our fisheries and the outdoors.

With school holidays just around the corner and the October 1 season opener fast approaching, the event couldn't come at a better time. It's the perfect opportunity for kids to sharpen their skills, learn something new, and perhaps even land a fish they'll be talking about for weeks.

If you're looking for a fun, family-friendly outing this weekend, make sure to head along and join in the action.

For more information and event updates, visit the Kids Fishing Charitable Trust Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TakeAKidFishingNZ

Good luck to everyone taking part, and here's hoping for plenty of tight lines and happy young anglers this Sunday!

Beyond the Fishing Report: Introducing North Canterbury Field Journals

This season we're excited to launch a brand-new video series, North Canterbury Field Journals.

While our regular fishing reports will continue to keep anglers up to date with what's happening on the water, Field Journals will take you behind the scenes and into the work being carried out by Fish & Game staff across the region.

Released on the alternate weeks between our written fishing reports, these short videos will showcase the projects, work, habitat initiatives, access improvements, fish surveys, compliance operations, and other interesting work our North Canterbury field officers are working on.

North Canterbury Field Journals will provide anglers with a closer look at the work that staff undertake to manage and protect the fisheries we all enjoy.

The first episode will be released on Opening Day, 1 October, and we'll be bringing you stories from around the region right throughout the season.

Keep an eye on our North Canterbury Facebook page and Instagram, as well as the Fish & Game New Zealand YouTube, for Episode One. 

Tackle Tip Of The Week: The Pre-Season Tackle Check Every Angler Should Do

Not all gear needs to be brand new but it should always be looked after well.

With Opening Day just around the corner, now's the time to run through your gear and make sure everything is ready to hit the water.

Fly Anglers

☐ Check your fly line for cracks, nicks, or excessive wear

☐ Inspect leaders and tippet for signs of age or brittleness

☐ Clean your reel and make sure the drag is operating smoothly

☐ Check rod guides for chips or damage that could weaken your line

☐ Restock your fly boxes with proven early-season patterns

☐ Sharpen any dull hooks

Spin Anglers

☐ Check your reel line for wear, twists, or damage and replace if needed

☐ Ensure the drag is smooth and functioning properly

☐ Inspect swivels, clips, and traces for rust or corrosion

☐ Sharpen or replace dull hooks on lures

☐ Check lure split rings for damage or weakness

☐ Restock your tackle box with proven trout lures 

Everyone

☐ Make sure your licence is ready for the new season

☐ Check your landing net is in good condition

☐ Review the regulations for the waters you plan to fish

☐ Check your waders and boots for leaks or worn soles

☐ Restock or replace essentials such as sunscreen, pliers, forceps, and polarised sunglasses

☐ Remove any rusty or broken tackle 

A little time spent in the shed this week could save a lot of frustration on Opening Day. There's nothing worse than discovering a cracked fly line, a seized reel, or a blunt hook once you've had a fish escape you on opening morning.

Remember: the fish won't know whether your gear is brand new or ten years old, but they might just find any weaknesses you've ignored over winter!

Free Online Resources for Every Angler

Looking to improve your chances of success this season?  Anglers around New Zealand now have access to a growing collection of free online fishing resources designed to help make time on the water more enjoyable, productive, and rewarding.

Whether you're preparing for your very first day on the river or you're a seasoned angler looking to refine your skills, the online knowledge hub contains a range of practical guides and helpful information covering topics such as fishing techniques, tackle and equipment selection, fish behaviour, access opportunities, regulations, and much more.

Drawing on the knowledge and experience of Fish & Game staff, these resources have been developed to help anglers build confidence and gain a better understanding of both the sport and the fisheries they enjoy.

One of the great things about fishing is that there's always something new to learn. Understanding where fish are likely to be holding, how changing conditions affect trout behaviour, or simply making the right gear choice can often make all the difference between a quiet day and a memorable one.

The resources are free to access on your phone, tablet, or computer.

As we head into another exciting season, there's never been a better time to brush up on your knowledge, learn a new technique, or pick up a few tips that might help you land your next fish.

Weather Outlook (extended forecast)

Christchurch

Rakaia

Waipara

Culverden

Hanmer Springs

Arthurs Pass

Lewis Pass

River Flows in m³/s

As of 9:30 am 24 September 2026

Waiau Uwha at Malings Pass: 5.093

Waiau Uwha at Marble Point: 99.477

Hurunui River at No.2 Hut: 19.645

Hurunui River at SH1 Bridge: 76.908

Ashley River at Lees Valley: 2.487

Ashley River at SH1 Bridge: 7.991

Waimakariri River at Below Otarama: 145.795

Waimakariri River at Old Highway Bridge: 115.713

Selwyn River at Whitecliffs: 3.084

Selwyn River at Coes Ford: 1.68

Halswell River at Ryans Bridge: 0.822

Harts Creek at Timber Yard Road: 1.567

Rakaia River at Fighting Hill: 145.917

To help you plan your fishing adventures, be sure to check the following resources:

• E-Can River Flows: River Flow Data
• Outdoor Access Live Cameras: Live Cameras (subscription required)
• MetService Weather Warnings: Weather Warnings
• Windy: Wind Radar
• Yr Weather Service (most accurate for High Country): Yr Website
• Canterbury Weather Updates: Webcams and Website

Stay safe out there!

Please note: This weather update is current at the time of publishing. We recommend checking the latest forecasts, river flows and road conditions before heading out.

New Issue - Fish & Game New Zealand Now Released

The latest issue of Fish & Game NZ magazine is out now. 

If you don't have your physical copy, you can still catch up on all the action and get ready for the season ahead by reading the magazine online - just click on the cover above or PRESS HERE.

Click the licence below to get your licence today!

Ever wondered where your licence money goes? Check out this chart below for a breakdown. 

Next Video Report: 1st October 2026
Next Written Report: 8th October 2026

Tight Lines,

Jackson Meecham, North Canterbury Fish & Game Officer & the whole North Canterbury Team.