A Cracking Start to the Season

Image Above: Lake Roto Kohatu a close to Christchurch family put and take fishery is open until the end of this month. 

We're now into the first week of the fishing season, and it's fantastic to see anglers back on the water right across the region, from youngsters enjoying a day out at the Groynes Lakes through to keen fishers heading deep into the backcountry.

The good news is that our main braided rivers are currently in fishable condition, giving anglers plenty of options early in the season. We've already received reports of some quality fish being caught, which is encouraging to see this early on.

Remember, early-season fishing on our lowland streams can be exceptional. With cooler water temperatures, higher flows, and relatively little weed growth, trout are often more active and willing to feed. These conditions can provide some of the best fishing opportunities of the year before summer temperatures rise and weed growth begins to impact presentation and gear.

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Opening Day in the Lewis Pass

Field Officer Emily Craig & Chief Operating Officer Richie Cosgrove cross the Boyle River while conducting licence checks on the Lewis Pass Designated Waters fishery. 

After months of anticipation, the new sports fishing season got underway last, with anglers across North Canterbury making the most of a stunning Opening Day on the water.

Fish & Game staff and honorary rangers were also out across the region, checking licences, engaging with anglers, and monitoring some of our most popular fisheries as another season officially began.

One team headed into the Lewis Pass Designated Waters, covering a large and remote area on foot. Ranging in these backcountry environments is no small task, but despite the distances involved, staff encountered several compliant anglers who were clearly excited to be back fishing again. Evidence of other anglers was found further upstream, with some likely making the most of the favourable conditions by settling in for an overnight stay.

And favourable conditions they certainly were. Blue skies, sunshine, and crystal-clear rivers greeted anglers throughout much of the region. While the occasional gust of wind rolled through, many anglers would agree that a little ripple on the water can sometimes work in your favour. Although a handful of rivers were carrying some colour, most appeared to be dropping quickly and should provide excellent fishing opportunities over the coming days.

Elsewhere, another Fish & Game team visited the tributaries flowing into Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, checking licences and catching up with anglers enjoying the final hours of daylight on the season's first day.

A young angler checks out her catch during the 2026 Take A Kid Fishing event in September 2026. 

Staff and honorary rangers also spent time at the Groynes Junior Fishing Lakes during the evening. While most anglers were enjoying the lakes responsibly, an offence was detected involving an adult fishing in waters reserved exclusively for anglers under 18 years of age.

Unfortunately, rangers have detected several offences at the junior lakes since the recent Take A Kid Fishing event. These fisheries are specifically managed to provide quality fishing opportunities for young anglers, and we ask adults to respect the purpose of these waters and leave them for the next generation of anglers to enjoy.

Fish & Game also reminds anglers that freshwater fishing offences are punishable under the Conservation Act and can result in prosecution and a criminal conviction.

Opening Day remains one of the highlights of the angling calendar. It was fantastic to see so many people back on the water, rivers coming to life again, and another season of fishing adventures getting underway across North Canterbury.

El Niño on the Horizon: What Could It Mean for North Canterbury Anglers?

Jackson Meecham ties on a new lure after being snapped off by a sea-run trout at the Waimakariri River mouth. 

As we settle into another fishing season, there's one topic that keeps popping up in weather forecast conversations: El Niño.

While no two seasons are ever exactly the same, forecasters are increasingly suggesting El Niño conditions could play a role in shaping New Zealand's weather over the months ahead. For anglers, that raises an interesting question: what could it mean for our rivers, lakes, and fishing opportunities across the region?

According to Earth Science New Zealand (ESNZ, previously NIWA), a typical El Niño pattern brings stronger and more frequent westerly winds to New Zealand, often resulting in drier conditions east of the Southern Alps and wetter conditions on the West Coast. Historically, eastern regions like Canterbury face an increased risk of extended dry spells during stronger El Niño events.

Check out this video for a deeper look from ESNZ

For freshwater anglers, that's a mixed bag.

The positive side is that lower river flows often mean clearer water conditions, making rivers more accessible and easier to read. Medium to large braided rivers can spend longer periods fishable between freshes, and sight-fishing opportunities often improve dramatically when water clarity is high.

However, extended dry conditions can also create challenges. Lower flows generally mean trout have fewer holding areas available and become more concentrated in deeper pools and runs. Clear water can make fish increasingly cautious, demanding a more stealthy approach from anglers. Lighter leaders, longer casts, and careful presentation often become the name of the game. Studies and fisheries observations from overseas drought-affected fisheries consistently show that low flows and elevated water temperatures can place additional stress on trout populations, particularly during prolonged warm weather.

One factor many North Canterbury anglers will recognise is the influence of the nor'wester. El Niño years are typically associated with more frequent westerly airflow patterns across the country. While a strong nor'wester isn't always ideal for casting, those same wind patterns can help drive rainfall into the Southern Alps, resulting in periodic freshes that recharge our river systems and provide some of the season's best fishing conditions following a rise in river levels.

Lake anglers could also benefit from a dry season. Stable water levels and long periods of settled weather often produce excellent sight-fishing opportunities around lake margins, while terrestrial food sources such as cicadas and grasshoppers can become a bigger part of trout diets during hot, dry summers.

Of course, it is important to remember that El Niño is not a guarantee. ESNZ notes that while the climate pattern influences New Zealand's weather, it is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. Local weather, rainfall events, and regional conditions will ultimately determine how our fisheries perform throughout the season.

For now, anglers should simply keep an eye on river conditions, remain flexible with their plans, and be prepared to make the most of the opportunities that come their way.

North Canterbury Field Journal: Rainbow Trout Spawning Surveys

Earlier this week, before the new season got underway, our field team headed into the high country to visit the spawning waters of the Harper and Avoca Rivers, where rainbow trout are beginning their annual spawning run.

It's still very early in the spawning season, and we're yet to see anywhere near the peak numbers of fish moving into these rivers. However, this trip offered a great opportunity to get out on the ground monitoring this year's run while also giving anglers a behind-the-scenes look at the work our field staff undertake each spring. These spawning surveys help us track trout populations, monitor fishery health, and build a better understanding of how each season is shaping up within the catchment.

This year, we're also keeping an eye out for rainbow trout that were tagged in Lake Coleridge over winter. Finding these fish will help us test the assumption that trout move from the lake into the Harper and Avoca spawning waters via the control gates of the Harper Diversion. Alongside the valuable information these surveys provide, they also take our field staff into some of the most spectacular backcountry landscapes North Canterbury has to offer.

We'll be returning to the Harper and Avoca Rivers every week throughout October to continue monitoring the spawning run as more fish arrive. We'll be sharing updates as the spawning run continues, so be sure to stay tuned.

So don’t miss out- watch this first North Canterbury Field Journal and get a glimpse of what Fish & Game field staff get up to when they're out counting spawning rainbow trout in the high country.

An update following last weeks release of this video: 

Staff have completed the next count on these waters this week where the numbers of spawning rainbows had significantly increased. Staff counted 48 rainbow trout across the spawning streams, alongside 18 new redds. A great sign and these counts will continue throughout this month. 

Tackle Tip Of The Week: Polarised Sunglasses

These Dirty Dogs can be a solid middle price point option due to the floating strap, perfect on the boat.

A good pair of polarised sunglasses is one of the most useful pieces of gear you can carry on the water. They cut through surface glare, making it easier to see beneath the water and spot fish.

They’re particularly handy when sight fishing for trout as well as boating on rivers or lakes to various fishing spots. They also provide valuable protection from harmful UV rays and help reduce eye strain on bright days.

For the best results, look for a quality pair with polarised lenses and good UV protection. Amber or copper lenses are great for overcast conditions and sight fishing, while darker grey lenses work well in bright sunlight.

A good pair of sunnies won't catch the fish for you – but they can certainly help you find them!

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 

Christchurch

Rakaia

Waipara

Culverden

Hanmer Springs

Arthurs Pass

Lewis Pass

River Flows in m³/s

As of 8:45 am 8 October 2026

Waiau Uwha at Malings Pass: 4.73

Waiau Uwha at Marble Point: 78.963

Hurunui River at No.2 Hut: 12.339

Hurunui River at SH1 Bridge: 52.525

Ashley River at Lees Valley: 2.237

Ashley River at SH1 Bridge: 5.223

Waimakariri River at Below Otarama: 64.672

Waimakariri River at Old Highway Bridge: 76.927

Selwyn River at Whitecliffs: 2.281

Selwyn River at Coes Ford: 1.642

Halswell River at Ryans Bridge: 0.942

Harts Creek at Timber Yard Road: 1.644

Rakaia River at Fighting Hill: 117.67

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.

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: 15th October 2026
Next Written Report: 22nd October 2026

Tight Lines,

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