High Country Opening is Here

Photo above: The Lloyd sisters, Charlotte (left), Lucy (middle) and Hannah (right) from Rangiora with a catch from Lake Coleridge in 2025.

If there is one date in the fishing calendar that gets the blood pumping, this is it. The High Country opening has finally arrived, throwing open the gates to many of our iconic lakes and rivers and signalling that the trout fishing season is now well and truly underway.

For anglers across North Canterbury and beyond, this is more than just another opening day. It is the moment many have been counting down to through winter and spring. The opportunity to stand knee-deep in a crystal-clear High Country river, watch a trout materialise from nowhere, or launch the boat onto one of our stunning mountain lakes at first light is something uniquely Kiwi. Few places in the world offer the access we enjoy to wild fisheries set amongst landscapes that quite simply take your breath away.

The timing could not be better. Longer days, warming temperatures and the promise of summer just around the corner make this one of the most exciting periods of the entire season. Whether you're stalking browns along the edges of a High Country lake, drifting nymphs through gin-clear runs, casting lures from the shoreline or trolling deep-water drop-offs, the opportunities are endless. Every season begins with optimism, and opening weekend is where that optimism turns into adventure.

An anglers casts to a trout on Lake Marymere on the opening day of the 2025 high country season. 

So dust off the gear, tie on some fresh leaders, check the reels, restock the tackle box and most importantly, make sure you have your current season fishing licence sorted before heading out. There is no better feeling than setting off before dawn knowing the season stretches ahead of you, and countless opportunities await.

At its heart, fishing has always been about more than catching fish. It's about getting away from the noise, spending time with family and friends, exploring new water and reconnecting with the incredible outdoors that New Zealand is famous for. Whether you return home with a trophy trout, a handful of photos, or simply memories of a day spent in spectacular surroundings, you are winning.

One extremely important reminder this week is that New Zealand Election Day falls this Saturday, 7 November. Voting closes at 7 pm, so if you intend to cast your vote, make sure you have a plan in place before heading away for opening weekend. Advance voting is available and is an excellent option for anglers planning an early start or a full day on the water. Get your vote sorted beforehand, and you'll be free to focus entirely on the fishing when opening morning arrives.

The message this fortnight is simple: get out there and embrace it. The lakes are opening, the rivers are calling, summer is on the horizon, and another season of unforgettable fishing adventures is beginning. What a cracking time to be a Kiwi, with access to some of the finest freshwater fisheries and wild places on the planet right on our doorstep.

See you on the water, and here's hoping your High Country opening delivers bent rods, screaming reels and the kind of memories that get you planning the next adventure.

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Lake Coleridge Competition: Just Days Away

When and Where

• Saturday 7th November 2026
• Location: Harper Campground
• Fish entries from 9 am – 1:30 pm
• Prizegiving starts at 2 pm  

This year, the competition is being held at the Harper Campground at Lake Coleridge. Just look out for the big blue Fish & Game tent!

We’ll be there for entries starting from 9 a.m. until 1.30 p.m. We’ll also have a FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE going on at the tent from 9 am till the prize-giving has finished (or we run out of sausages!).

How to Enter

No pre-registration is required; just turn up at the Fish & Game tent before 1:30 p.m. to enter your fish caught in Lake Coleridge with a current 26/27 licence!

If you don’t have any luck or don’t enter a fish, you can still present your 26/27 licence at the tent any time before 1:30 pm to go into the draw to win some great SPOT PRIZES (adults and junior categories). 

Note: You MUST be in line by 1.30 p.m. Anyone arriving after 1.30 pm will not be able to enter their fish. One of our Rangers will jump in the line to mark the cut-off! 

The Lake Coleridge competition is proudly sponsored by your local Hunting & Fishing stores (Christchurch, North Canterbury and Ashburton) and ARB 4x4.

They’ve given us some great prizes up for grabs, with a total value of over $8,000!

Prize Categories

There are adult and junior categories, with prizes for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd for rainbow trout, brown trout and chinook salmon caught only from Lake Coleridge.

Anglers will only be able to enter ONE fish from each species; make sure you enter your biggest catch! This will help keep things fair and reduce the wait time at the weigh-in tent. All fish* that are entered need to be harvested and remain un-gutted until after the weigh-in. *See tagged trout category for further info

Adults: 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd - rainbow trout, brown trout, chinook salmon

Juniors: 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd - rainbow trout, brown trout, chinook salmon

Tagged Trout spot prize draw

Photos accepted, as we would recommend releasing tagged trout to help our research. 

Entry Requirements for this category:

• A photo of the fish
• The tag number
• The length of the trout
• Approximate capture location
• A visible timestamp on the photo

(Alternatively, if you decide to keep the tagged trout, please enter the harvested & un-gutted trout as normal)

Adult spot prize draw

Junior spot prize draw

For further information, please visit this link: https://www.fishandgame.org.nz/freshwater-fishing-in-new-zealand/follow-the-fish/fishing-news/lake-coleridge-fishing-competition/

Season Closure for Christchurch Family Fishery

ATTENTION ANGLERS!

Lake Roto Kohatu is now closed to fishing for the summer period until 1 April 2027. 

This fishery closes over the summer months to allow members of the public to partake in other summer recreation at the lake during the warmer weather period. To reduce conflicts and potential injuries to people fishing in closed waters during this time. 

If you're down in the area swimming or partaking in other recreation, you might see people down there fishing; more than likely they hold a permit and are part of the Canterbury Course Fishing Club. Alternatively, they may have been issued a permit by us for other valid reasons. These anglers will only be targeting tench as a requirement of their permit. Fish & Game rangers will continue regular patrols at this fishery throughout the closed season. 

North Canterbury Field Journal: Lake Sumner Labour Weekend Mission

Join the North Canterbury Fish & Game team as we head into the Lake Sumner backcountry over Labour Weekend to carry out a range of field operations.

From compliance and angler engagement through to installing new signage and checking access points, this trip highlights some of the important work that happens behind the scenes to help manage and protect our world-class freshwater fisheries. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Lake Sumner region, this Field Journal offers a glimpse into what it takes to maintain access, promote responsible angling, and ensure visitors have the information they need when fishing North Canterbury's rivers and lakes.

Whether you're a keen angler, outdoor enthusiast, or simply enjoy seeing what happens in the field, we hope you enjoy coming along for the journey.

Tackle Tip Of The Week: Halco Poltergeist XDD 50

As lake temperatures start to climb, many trout are spending more of their day holding in deeper water to feed in the colder stuff. A proven way to reach these fish without the need for downriggers or lead-core line is the Halco Poltergeist XDD 50.

Measuring just 50mm and weighing 7g, this little lure punches well above its weight. Its oversized bib allows it to dive beyond 8 metres when trolled correctly, making it ideal for targeting rainbow and brown trout feeding deep around drop-offs.

One of the standout features of the Poltergeist is its strong, aggressive action. Even at slower trolling speeds, it produces a tight, consistent wobble that attracts trout from surprising distances. It's a lure that has accounted for countless South Island lake trout over the years and remains a favourite among experienced trollers.

Recommended Colours:

• Chrome Tiger – A great all-round option that stands out in a wide range of conditions.

• Silver Shadow – An excellent smelt imitator and a go-to choice in clear water.

• Fluoro Pink – Deadly during low light periods, overcast conditions, or when trout need a little extra encouragement.

• Rainbow or Brown Trout – Both are proven producers when trout are actively feeding.

Recommended Trolling Speed: Aim to troll between 2.0 and 3.5 km/h. Around 2.5-3.0 km/h is often the sweet spot, allowing the lure to achieve maximum depth while maintaining its enticing swimming action. If you're marking fish deeper than expected, slow your speed slightly and let out additional line to help the lure reach its full diving potential.

Top Tip: Run the lure 40-60 metres behind the boat and always check its action beside the boat before sending it out. A lure swimming straight and true will consistently out-fish one that's tracking off to the side.

When the fish move deep, sometimes success simply comes down to getting your lure into the strike zone. The Halco Poltergeist XDD 50 remains one of the easiest and most effective ways to do exactly that.

Canterbury Anniversary Weekend Next Week

Nicolle was one of 20 enthusiastic anglers who attended North Canterbury's inaugural Women's Fly Fishing Course, and now she has caught this ripper rainbow trout on the fly!

With Canterbury Anniversary Weekend just around the corner, anglers have the perfect opportunity to make the most of an extra day off and spend some quality time on the water.

Whether you're planning a quick morning mission on a local river, a day trolling one of our high-country lakes, or a full weekend away exploring some of Canterbury's fantastic fisheries, the long weekend provides plenty of options. Early November often brings improving river conditions and active fish across both rivers and lakes, making it an ideal time to dust off the gear and get out there.

There may be another factor working in anglers' favour this year as well. With New Zealand Cup and Show Week in full swing, many Christchurch residents will have their attention firmly fixed on the horse racing, fashions, and festivities. While the city enjoys one of its busiest social weeks of the year, some popular fishing spots could be a little quieter than usual.

For anglers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peaceful time outdoors, this could be the perfect opportunity. Whether you're staying close to home or heading further afield, remember to check river flows, weather conditions, and the regulations before heading away.

An extra day off only comes around once a year, so make the most of it.

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.

Sunny Skies Don’t Always Mean Safe River Conditions

Planning a day on the river? Look upstream before you head out.

Nor’west weather can bring hot, sunny conditions to the Canterbury Plains while heavy rain falls in the Southern Alps. That rain can cause alpine-fed rivers such as the Waimakariri, Rakaia, Hurunui and Waiau-uwha to rise rapidly and potentially flood, even when it’s sunny where you’re fishing. 

Before heading out, check the weather in the river headwaters, not just at your fishing spot, and check current river flows. Keep an eye on conditions while you’re fishing too, particularly if you’ve crossed channels or are fishing from islands, gravel bars or the riverbed.

Check before you cast: https://www.ecan.govt.nz/data/riverflow

More info here: https://www.ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2026/dont-be-fooled-by-the-sunshine-el-nino-could-cause-canterbury-rivers-to-rise-rapidly

2025/26 Sea-Run Salmon Management Summary

The latest Joint Central South Island and North Canterbury Fish & Game Sea-Run Salmon Management Report has now been presented to both councils and released. To help make the information more accessible, we've produced a short visual summary highlighting some of the key findings from the 2025/26 season.

The data shows an estimated return of 1,469 sea-run salmon across Canterbury's three indicator rivers, with approximately 998 salmon returning to the Rakaia River, 283 to the Waimakariri River, and 239 to the Rangitata River.

While sea-run salmon numbers remain well below historical levels, the 2025/26 season has seen the population move back into the low management band. Under the current management framework, any consideration of changes to season bag limits requires the population to remain within, or above, the low management band for three consecutive seasons.

The Central South Island and North Canterbury Fish & Game councils jointly adopted the threshold management strategy across the three indicator rivers to guide sea-run salmon regulations in both regions. This approach was developed in response to the ongoing challenges facing Canterbury's east coast sea-run salmon fishery and the long-term decline observed over recent decades.

The report also covers estimated harvest figures, licence sales, hatchery return information, and long-term escapement trends that help build a clearer picture of where the fishery currently sits.

We encourage all anglers to take the time to read the summary and, for those interested in a deeper understanding of the data, monitoring, and management framework, the full report.

Sea-run salmon are an integral part of Canterbury's angling heritage. Understanding the information available helps ensure discussions about the future of the fishery are informed by the best data currently available.

View the Sea-Run Salmon Report Library Here

Read the full 2025/26 Joint Sea-Run Salmon Management Report Here

Weather Outlook 

Christchurch

Rakaia

Waipara

Culverden

Hanmer Springs

Arthurs Pass

Lewis Pass

River Flows in m³/s

As of 2:55pm pm 5 November 2026

Waiau Uwha at Malings Pass: 7.556

Waiau Uwha at Marble Point: 79.443

Hurunui River at No.2 Hut: 21.498

Hurunui River at SH1 Bridge: 85.597

Ashley River at Lees Valley: 2.474

Ashley River at SH1 Bridge: 3.636

Waimakariri River at Below Otarama: 129.994

Waimakariri River at Old Highway Bridge: 139.605

Selwyn River at Whitecliffs: 1.668

Selwyn River at Coes Ford: 1.663

Halswell River at Ryans Bridge: 0.76

Harts Creek at Timber Yard Road: 1.66

Rakaia River at Fighting Hill: 329.447

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
• See It Kiwi: Webcams
• River Check: Fishing & River Flow Information
• South Island Freshwater Fishing App (not made by F&G, Apple only): App Store

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.

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: 12th November 2026
Next Written Report: 19th November 2026

Tight Lines,

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