With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

Most rivers have been well above average flows over the last week. But the good news is a large high pressure system is predicted for much of next week. Often we can get some great mayfly hatches on calm warm afternoons at this time of the year. And some really good salmon have been caught in the Clutha River over the last week. Mostly below the Roxburgh Dam wall.

Rainfall:

More rainfall was received along the main divide compared to all the other areas in the region. Cascade Hut recorded 83.5 mm of rain, while only 0.6 mm of rain was received at Middlemarch.

River flow:

Flows in the Kawarau River and the Clutha River at Balclutha were normal for this time of year. The Shag River and the Dunstan Creek recorded well above normal flows. The Clutha River at Cardrona Confluence was the only one having below normal flows. The remaining sites recorded above normal flows.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Above normal
Shag River: Well above normal
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Above normal
Taieri River at Outram: Above normal
Pomahaka River: Above normal
Waipahi River: Above normal
Clutha River at Balclutha: Normal
Clutha River at Cardrona: Above normal
Lake Dunstan: Well above normal

Weekly average flow:

To give a better representation of how the weekly average flow compares to our historical records, we use flow classes. If a flow falls in the middle third of the historical flow recorded for that month we’ve called it a “normal” flow. If it falls in the top third of flows we call it “above normal” and likewise if in the bottom third, then “below normal”. If it is in the top or bottom 10% of flows then we change this to “well above” or “well below”, respectively.

The divisions of flow are somewhat arbitrary but they do give a better indication of the state of the river than was previously reported. We use the word “normal” because using “average” for both the weekly flow and the historical average flow can be confusing and we’ve used it descriptively not definitively.

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

Most waterways are at normal or below normal levels clear and in great condition for fishing. Although temperatures in some small streams are getting too hot for good fishing throughout the day.

Over the last week the terrestrial insect activity has really heated up – making for some great dry fly fishing action. The Cicadas have been active on the high country dams and anglers fishing near the bush clad shorelines in the Southern Lakes have been having great success with blow fly type dry flies.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Normal, clear
Shag River: Normal, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Well below normal, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Normal, clear
Pomahaka River: Below normal, clear
Waipahi River: Normal, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Below normal, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Below normal, clear
Lake Dunstan: Normal, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

Rumors suggest that the Cicadas started on Loganburn a few days ago and trout up to 7lb were landed. As soon as the present southerly front moves through and the weather heats up this could be worth investigating. Hopefully the Cicada action on other high country lakes will start any day now as well.

The Clutha River is very low and allowing anglers access to some great fishing throughout its length. There have been some good sedge rises in the Upper Clutha on calm evenings and in the lower system trout have been chasing smelt.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very low, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Very low, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Low, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

Most Otago waters received a fresh a few days ago which is great considering many were approaching near drought condition.The Pomahaka and Taieri have still not returned to normal and clear conditions, but most other waterways are in good order for fishing at present.

North Otago Area: The Shag, Kakanui and Waianakarua really benefited from recent rain. Water levels were getting very low and temperatures quite high. Large sea-run type fish (up to 9lb) have been reported in the lower reaches of these rivers over the last month.

Southern Lakes Area: Anglers fly fishing with small bully patterns from the shoreline of Hawea and Wanaka have been experiencing some great sight fishing for cruising trout. Green beetle dry flies have also been successful.

The most productive boat anglers have been out early in the morning. Trolling with fluorescent pink Tasmanian devil lures off river deltas (in 2-4m) has been working very well on salmon. The Hunter River delta is holding lots of trout (around 1.5kg) at the moment.

Over the holiday period the Clutha River was quite low allowing anglers to spot and cast to fish in water that is normally inaccessible. The outlet area has been fishing well and some good sedge hatches have been report around Deans Bank on calm warm evenings.

Central Otago:Over the new year Lake Dunstan produced some good bags. Anglers fly fishing with green woolly bugger lures over weedbeds were practically successful.

Everyone is waiting for the Cicada fishing to start on the high country lakes. These lakes (Poolburn, Onslow and Manorburn) have been producing some very well conditioned fish this season so there is potential for some great dry fly action when temperature warms up.

Taieri Catchment: Prior to the recent fresh the upper Taieri was fly fishing very well. Fly anglers experienced good fishing using willow grub imitations. These tiny (4-5mm) yellow grubs drop from galls in willow leaves onto the water surface providing a banquet for trout.

The upper Taieri is presently clearing but the lower river remains discoloured. As the lower river begins to clear there should be some great spin fishing opportunities to catch fresh sea run trout. Good numbers of salmon have been reported in the Dunedin harbour.

Southwest Otago: Water temperatures were very high in the Pomahaka and Waipahi so the recent fresh should improve the fishing once these rivers clear. The fresh may have also enticed some sea-run trout and salmon into the Pomahaka.

Trout have been smashing baitfish (smelt and adult whitebait) throughout the lower Clutha system. This presents very exciting opportunities as often the trout chase bait fish right into shallows at high speed. These trout become very focused on their prey and lures need to be placed directly in their visual zone to get a strike. Then strip the lure back in quickly. Black woolly buggers and rapala lures work well.

Some salmon (around 8lb) have been caught in the lower Clutha recently. Spin fishing with 5-10kg line using silver zed spinners and rapala lures (if you can get them down) works well in the deep pools.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured, clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Normal, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation: Most rivers at are normal or below normal levels and very clear. However water temperatures are getting very high in some lowland streams with 23° recorded in the Pomahaka River today! Trout will become very sluggish and are unlikely to feed much at such high temperatures.

Water temperatures are generally cooler in the high country dams and rivers. These waters are in great order and should fish well over the holidays. On the rivers try large terrestrial patterns such as blowfly and beetle dry flies, and fish damsel flies nymphs over weed beds on the still waters.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Below normal, clear
Shag River: Normal, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Below normal, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Below normal, clear
Pomahaka River: Below normal, clear
Waipahi River: Normal, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Below normal, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Normal, clear
Lake Dunstan: Normal, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation: Most waterways are at low or normal levels, clear and in great condition for fishing

North Otago Area: Consistent rainfall has left the often drought prone coastal rivers in great condition, but many backcountry rivers are not carrying as many fish as normal. This is possibly due to flooding in early spring. Some estuaries are still holding large numbers of whitebait (the whitebait season has finished). This has helped trout put on condition and some surprisingly large fish have been caught

Southern Lakes Area: We have received unexpected reports of high mouse numbers in the Caples, Routeburn and Makarora systems. Trout may take advantage of this protein source and by late summer there could be some big fish in these areas.

Central Otago: With consistently high lake levels over spring, Poolburn, Manorburn and Onslow are in great condition for the upcoming summer season. Anglers should try brown beetle and blow fly imitations, and then move to Cicada patterns as summer progresses. Damsel fly nymphs fished over shallow weed beds are worth trying in all still waters. Worm fishing with a bubble over weed beds can also be very productive.

Taieri Catchment: The Taieri River has dropped and cleared. Some large fish have been reported from the oxbows in the upper river. In the lower river porina grubs continue to work well with some large trout and flounders caught. The small dams in the Maniototo are all in great order.

Southwest Otago: The lower Clutha has finally cleared up and has been fishing very well. One spin angler reported catching 7 trout up to 5lb only 5 minutes drive from Balclutha. Backwaters and deep holes are holding good numbers of smelt and grey-ghost type lures have been working well. After a very wet spring, the Waipahi and Pomahaka have also cleared up and the Pomahaka is fishing well around Kelso.

Holiday Season Prospects: As summer progresses and trout become more wary, spin anglers should use light line and realistic lures such as rapalas and soft plastics. It is an exciting time of the year for fly anglers with trout more likely to rise to big dry flies.

The Clutha arm of Lake Dunstan is in great condition and should fish well. Harling with green woolly buggers and retrieving snail patterns slowly are two of the most successful methods. Probably the most relaxing and underutilised fishing method in the Southern Lakes is worm fishing off the river mouths. When the trout go down deep during the day this can be a great way to catch them.

Southern Lakes holiday makers often find wind to be a problem. It can be easier to find sheltered water on some of the smaller lakes such as Butchers Dam, Diamond Lake and Lake Johnson. The middle reaches of the Taieri River are generally under-fished and they are a great place to explore on a hot sunny day. Spin fishing with articulated trout, mepps and rapala lures can be successful throughout the day on the Upper Clutha River.

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation: This is shaping up to be a great season for fishing still waters. Most dams and reservoirs are full from frequent rain over spring, resulting in lots of productive feeding areas for trout. River fishing has been challenging with many lowland rivers and southern lakes tributaries high and hard to fish due to frequent freshes.

North Otago Area: The Shag and Waikouaiti have mostly been clear and in good condition for fishing. Both rivers have been producing trout up to 2kg from their mid-reaches.

Southern Lakes Area: Fishing competitions in Lake Hawea and Dunstan resulted in good catches of well conditioned browns and rainbows. Lake Hawea has been producing a lot of salmon which school in the deep water near the dam wall, and in the Neck area. Fishing with bright coloured Tasman devils and silvers wedges can be very productive.

Good numbers of trout have been seen in the shallows of Paddock Bay at Lake Wanaka, and many major rivers mouths. Small rapala type lures which are a good bully imitation can be deadly on these cruising fish.

Most rivers have now dropped and cleared long enough at some stage for anglers to investigate. Early reports suggest fish numbers in some Wakatipu tributaries are lower than expected possibly due to freshes received over spring. The Hunter River has been fishing well.

Central Otago: F&G have been undertaking fishery survey work on the Manorburn and Poolburn Dams. For a copy of these reports check out the Otago F&G Council section on the Otago F&G website, or email Cliff Halford directly at: C.Halford@fish-game.org.nz

Poolburn

High lake levels have kept the productive shallow margins producing lots of trout food. The average trout weight this season has been 1.6kg and they are in great condition. These fish had a lot of bullies and worms in them, a sure sign they have been feeding in the shallows. On opening weekend 69% of the anglers were trolling (often with bibbed lures) and the remainder were mostly bait fishing. The catch rate on opening day was 1 fish for three hours angling; this is better that the historical average and is good for a brown trout fishery.

Manorburn

High lakes levels have allowed the rainbow trout to recover from spawning quickly and they are mostly in good condition. On opening weekend anglers were fortunate to experience a catch rate of 0.80 fish per hour which is considered very high. A lot of young fish were caught, which had an average length of 23cm and were about 1kg in weight. These fish should continue to grow quickly and Manorburn should produce some great fishing this summer.

Onslow

The Teviot Anglers Club recently held a successful ‘take-a-kid-fishing-day’ at Lake Onslow. Most children managed to land a fish, with 31 caught in total. Onslow holds high numbers of trout which have an average length of 32cm, and it has produced the occasional trophy 10 pound plus fish in recent years. The road into this high altitude lake is dry weather only.

Taieri Catchment: The Taieri River has often been discoloured but anglers have still been doing well bait fishing in the lower reaches. The small dams in the Maniototo are all in good order. The oxbows in the Upper Taieri are full and producing lots of trout food and some good sized fish.

Southern Reservoir

This water was heavily stocked for ‘take a kid fishing days’ and a healthy number of fish remain to tempt Dunedin anglers. These trout are becoming harder to catch and fly fishing with green nymphs and woolly buggers often out fishes spin fishing equipment.

Southwest Otago Area :The Waipahi and Pomahaka have often been discoloured in recent weeks. Competitors in the famous Waipahi Gold Medal fishing competition braved snow and rising waters on November 5. Unfortunately as the snow melted the river became very discoloured. The only fish to be weighed in was caught by Mike Weddell.

When clear the Lower Clutha has produced some good may fly hatch below Balclutha. Often the best insect life is found on the more stable areas of the rivers bed where cobbles are present.

December Prospects: Weather patterns will hopefully stabilise and temperatures rise, increasing and aquatic and terrestrial insect activity. Fly fishing on our highcountry waters will be more worthwhile. In still waters try damsel and dragon fly nymphs. Dry fly anglers should start with brown beetle imitations and then move to green beetle and humpy blue flies as summer progresses.

Last December some Wakatipu anglers reported fresh run fish in many tributaries streams, which provided some great fishing opportunities. This is a great month for spin fishing for large sea-run type fish in the lower Taieri as these fish migrate upstream. Banana tobys lures and rapalas often work well.

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation: A relatively mild winter has left most waterways in good condition for the start of the fishing season this Saturday. Please remember that many backcountry waters do not open until November, and to check the regulations.

North Otago Area: The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti Rivers are all in good condition. They have been clear and stable since May. Numbers of trout in the Shag appear fairly low, but a few large trout have been seen. Seals have been reported in the Waikouaiti estuary up to the main road.

Southern Lakes Area: Most waterways are at medium levels and are clear. River deltas are worth investigating for hungry trout. Lake Dunstan is in excellent condition, and Lake Wakatipu is also in great order for the Glenorchy fishing competition this Saturday. Lakes Tewa, Moke and Johnson have recently been stocked with trout and are great spots for anglers with limited time.

Central Otago: Most high country dams are full from lots of snow melt. This should keep them fishing well into summer. Poolburn is traditionally very popular on opening day and fishes well. Manorburn does not open until November 1. The Manuherikia River is a bit discoloured.

Taieri Catchment: The lower Taieri River is high and dirty. The upper river is also high, but not as discoloured. Bait fishing can sometime produce surprising results in these conditions especially in back waters and oxbows. Fish & Game have released trout into the Mathias, Rutherfords, Blakelys, Coalpit Nenthorn and Hamiltons Dams. Please note Rutherfords and Blakelys are closed until November for lambing. Often overlooked, the Nenthorn Dam is holding some large rainbows. All these still waters all clear, full, and should fish well.

Southwest Otago Area :Most small rain-feed streams are dropping and clearing. The Tokomairiro is slightly discoloured but should clear in time for Saturday. The Waipahi is higher and more marginal. The Pomahaka is high and dropping, but still boisterous with snow melt and discoloured. The lower Clutha River fished very well over winter with several trout up to 3kg reported. At this stage Clutha flows are anticipated to be between 280-400 cummecs, making it an ideal back up option for anglers heading south this weekend.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, discoloured but clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation: The fishing season on rivers that contain mostly brown trout closes this Saturday to protect spawning fish over winter. If in doubt please check your regulation guide. The North Otago streams are in good condition, but many South Otago waters are still a bit discoloured. This week’s report concentrates on waters that are open over winter.

North Otago Area: The Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers remain open year round, downstream of their main road bridges and are clear and fishable at the moment. A few fresh sea-run trout have entered these systems recently, with a 3kg fish caught last weekend. Spin fishing with small silver hexagon spinners has been productive.

Southern Lakes Area: Most waters are presently clear and in good order. A lot of back country rivers remain open until the end of May and there are lots of winter fishing options in this region. The major lakes such as Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are open all year. The Makarora River downstream of the Wilkin confluence, the Matukituki downstream of the Mototapu confluence and the Dart River are also open year round. These rivers can all provide some great ‘Tongariro Style’ fishing for trout migrating trout upstream to spawn. Anglers can expect fresh runs of fish to enter these systems after each heavy rainfall event. It is then best to wait until the water clears, and then use a heavily weighed nymph with a glo-bug (which are a trout egg imitation).

Central Otago: The Manuherikia River closes this Saturday and is holding some fresh run trout. This river is a bit high but clear. Lake Dunstan remains open year round and can produce some great fishing for schools of rainbows off the mouth of the Clutha. Try trolling with bright Tasmanian Devils and Rapalas. The Clutha River downstream of Luggate is open to fishing year round and can experience large runs of spawning fish during the winter months, especially after a fresh. Try a glo-bug fly, or an orange lure on a fast sinking line. Veltic and Rapala type spinning lures also work well.

Taieri Catchment: The Taieri River downstream of Silverstream confluence remains open all year. Spin fishing with banana, or black and gold Tobies can be effective. Trout have recently been released into the Dunedin Reservoirs. These waters are open year round and a great escape from town life on sunny afternoons.

Southwest Otago Area: At present many streams are clearing but still discoloured. The Lower Clutha River is open to fishing year round. Spin fishing with black and gold or silver Tobies is often effective. The Pomahaka is open year round below the Clydevale Main Road Bridge.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, some colour, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, some colour, clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

The fishing season on rivers that contain mostly brown trout closes this Saturday to protect spawning fish over winter. If in doubt please check your regulation guide. The North Otago streams are in good condition, but many South Otago waters are still a bit discoloured. This week’s report concentrates on waters that are open over winter.

North Otago Area:

The Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers remain open year round, downstream of their main road bridges and are clear and fishable at the moment. A few fresh sea-run trout have entered these systems recently, with a 3kg fish caught last weekend. Spin fishing with small silver hexagon spinners has been productive.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most waters are presently clear and in good order. A lot of back country rivers remain open until the end of May and there are lots of winter fishing options in this region. The major lakes such as Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are open all year. The Makarora River downstream of the Wilkin confluence, the Matukituki downstream of the Mototapu confluence and the Dart River are also open year round. These rivers can all provide some great ‘Tongariro Style’ fishing for trout migrating trout upstream to spawn. Anglers can expect fresh runs of fish to enter these systems after each heavy rainfall event. It is then best to wait until the water clears, and then use a heavily weighed nymph with a glo-bug (which are a trout egg imitation).

Central Otago:

The Manuherikia River closes this Saturday and is holding some fresh run trout. This river is a bit high but clear. Lake Dunstan remains open year round and can produce some great fishing for schools of rainbows off the mouth of the Clutha. Try trolling with bright Tasmanian Devils and Rapalas. The Clutha River downstream of Luggate is open to fishing year round and can experience large runs of spawning fish during the winter months, especially after a fresh. Try a glo-bug fly, or an orange lure on a fast sinking line. Veltic and Rapala type spinning lures also work well.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River downstream of Silverstream confluence remains open all year. Spin fishing with banana, or black and gold Tobies can be effective. Trout have recently been released into the Dunedin Reservoirs. These waters are open year round and a great escape from town life on sunny afternoons.

Southwest Otago Area:

At present many streams are clearing but still discoloured. The Lower Clutha River is open to fishing year round. Spin fishing with black and gold or silver Tobies is often effective. The Pomahaka is open year round below the Clydevale Main Road Bridge.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, some colour, clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

As the main fishing season draws to an end, the unsettled weather conditions continue to frustrate anglers. Many rivers are above normal and discolored. Metservice have advised that heavy rain can be expected in Fiordland, with possible spill over in the headwaters of Lakes Wakatipu, Wanaka and Hawea from early Friday evening until early Saturday morning. The still waters and small coastal streams are probably the best bet for Otago anglers searching for clear water over the Easter break.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui and Shag Rivers are above normal but still clear enough to fish. Sea-run trout often enter these rivers to spawn in April. Jamie from the Lake Benmore Holiday Park reports that the lake is the clearest it has been for a long time. The fishing is improving, but some trout appear a bit skinny. This is possibly due to discoloured water conditions over summer.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all clear, but with heavy rain expected anglers should be careful when considering any trip into the backcountry. Brown trout and salmon should be congregating off river mouths in preparation for spawning.

Central Otago:

Lake Dunstan remains clear and in good order. The Nevis River is also clear. The Manuherikia River is a bit high and boisterous, but clear in the upper reaches. Some large brown trout have been reported in the upper river, they may be on a spawning migration.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is well above normal throughout it length. It is slightly discoloured in the upper reaches and quite discoloured in the lower catchment. Worm fishing is often the most productive method in these conditions. Lake Mahinerangi is high, clear and in good order. Tomahawk Lagoon has been producing some large trout recently. The Dunedin Reservoirs are about to be restocked with trout in the near future.

Southwest Otago Area:

Many streams are still discoloured. It would pay to carry a spin fishing rod, which is generally more productive than fly fishing in these conditions. Salmon fishing below the Roxburgh Dam can be productive at this time of the year. In Southland, the Waikaia River is high and discoloured and the lower Mataura River is higher than normal and slightly discoloured. On the positive side, the Waiau, Oreti, Aparima Rivers and the Hamilton Burn are presently clear and in good condition for fly fishing.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Normal, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

With thanks to Steve Dixon of Otago Fish & Game

The weather for this weekend is looking good but unfortunately the rivers are up after another fresh during the week. The salmon and trout will be on the move, so if you are a river angler, wait till the rivers start to drop and target the deep holes with a silver coloured toby. The best places to fish this weekend would probably be the high country tussock lakes which have been fishing well.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti River’s are all high and discoloured. Discoloured water has made fishing difficult in the Waitaki Lakes but fishing small stream deltas can be productive. Pam at the Lake Benmore Holiday Park reports the fishing at the top of Lake Benmore is the best it’s been since before Christmas. The salmon season on the Waitaki River and tributaries is now closed.

Southern Lakes Area:

Lakes Wanaka, Hawea and Wakatipu are all high and clear. Landlocked salmon will be congregating near the Hunter, Dart, Makarora and Matukituki River deltas and should be starting their spawning over the next two weeks. Some places that are quite often overlooked are the small streams that flow into our major lakes. Stone Creek, Twelve Mile Creek and Simpson Creek all flow into Lake Wakatipu on the road to Glenorchy. These creeks and their deltas can produce some nice fish this time of year. Try small silver spinners, or bead head nymphs, if you are fly fishing in these areas.

Central Otago:

Lake Dunstan is medium and clear and fishing has been a little difficult in the last week or so. The Manuherikia River is slightly high but in good order and well worth a look while the Nevis is normal and clear. Loganburn and Manorburn Dams are fishing well with reports of good numbers of fish being caught using spinning gear.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is high and discoloured in the lower reaches. The upper Taieri River is high, and tannin stained, and in good order for spin and worm fishing. This cold snap will really get fish moving into the pools around tributary stream mouths right through the system. When the river clears red and gold spinners are a deadly weapon at this time of year. If you are fly fishing, a couple of bead head nymphs fished down and across work well.

Southwest Otago Area:

Most streams are high, rising, and discoloured from the recent fresh over the week. The Waipahi and Pomahaka River’s are high and rising. Once again the Mataura River is rising and slightly discoloured at Gore, but fishable at Parawa which can provide some great mayfly hatches this time of year.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, dropping
Shag River: High, rising
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: High, rising
Pomahaka River: High, rising
Waipahi River: High, rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, fluctuating, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

Most rivers are at normal levels or higher after receiving a fresh during the week. The high country lakes are clear and in good order. The unsettled weather and frequently discoloured rivers have been frustrating for fly anglers this season. Some expert anglers have been changing tactics and using sinking lines and large bright lure patterns, or spin fishing equipment in coloured water with good success.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui River is at a medium level, clear and in good condition for fishing. The Waikouaiti River is at a medium level and tea stained. Fish numbers in the upper Shag River are reported to be quite low. The fishing in the Waitaki Lakes has been quite difficult because of discoloured water conditions. The salmon season on the Waitaki River and tributaries is now closed.

Southern Lakes Area:

Lakes Wanaka, Hawea and Wakatipu are all high and clear. Landlocked salmon will be congregating near delta areas and should start to run up the tributaries to spawn over the next two weeks. Their major spawning grounds are the Makarora, Matukituki, Hunter and Dart Rivers, and also Diamond Creek. These fish average around 1kg and provide good sport on light spinning gear. Try small silver spinners, or bead head nymphs if you are fly fishing. Rainbow trout should also be schooling off the major delta areas in preparation for spawning. Often lures with a dash of red work well on these fish, which can be quite aggressive.

Central Otago:

The fishing in Lake Dunstan has been a bit tough but the trout that have been caught are in great condition. Angler numbers have been surprisingly low recently. Trolling and harling in the Clutha River delta area often produces some good rainbows in April. The Nevis River is at a medium level and clear.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is high and slightly discoloured in the lower reaches. These can be ideal conditions to target sea-run trout which will be moving upstream to spawn. Try fishing the deep pools especially near tributary streams, and use lures that have a dash of red. The upper Taieri is high and tannin stained, and in good order for spin and worm fishing.

Southwest Otago Area:

Most streams are still up slightly from recent rain and a bit discolored. The Waipahi is high but dropping and clearing. The Pomahaka is at a medium level and slightly discoloured. The smaller streams such as the Tokomairaro and Waitahuna are tannin stained but fishable. The Mataura River which historically provides some great mayfly action in April is above normal but dropping and clearing.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: High, dropping, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, fluctuating, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, rising, clear
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish & Game

General Situation:

After a week of fairly good weather, things have settled down again and fish are back into their feeding routines. Most high country lakes are clear and in good order for fishing. Conditions in the south are looking just about perfect with most rivers normal and clear, and autumn mayfly hatches going well. There is some rain in the forecast for the weekend but it would have to be heavy rain to stop me from going fishing.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti rivers all had a bit of a flush out and are now clear again. This will help bring in a few searun trout which will make fishing interesting for the last month of the season. Please remember the salmon season on the Waitaki River and tributaries finishes at the end of this month.

Southern Lakes Area:

Lakes Wanaka, Hawea and Wakatipu are all high and even though the river deltas into these lakes are slightly discoloured the best fishing around at present is at the river mouths. Landlocked salmon are hanging around the Makarora, Hunter, Dart and Rees River deltas. Landlocked whitebait are running now too which is attracting trout into the river mouths to feed.Trolling off delta areas with bright lures may produce some good results.

Central Otago:

All rivers and streams are medium and clear. The reservoirs such as Onslow, Poolburn and Manorburn are all good options. Lake Dunstan has been producing a few large fish in the 2-3kg range. Use a red and gold veltic in the reservoirs while silver is a good colour for Lake Dunstan.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River has been up and this will have brought more searun trout and salmon in from the sea. It is still running above normal but only slightly discoloured. There have been several good-sized salmon taken already and it is well worth targeting some of the deeper pools at dawn and dusk, especially with spinning gear. Spin anglers should try a red and gold veltic anywhere in the Taieri at this time of year. There have also been mayfly hatches on the odd calm evening down on the lower Taieri, between Outram and Allanton. If we get some more settled weather we could see some good afternoon and evening rises.

Southwest Otago Area:

Rivers and streams are still recovering from high water. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are dropping and clearing. Most waters in Southland are normal to low and clear. The lower Mataura River is the place for keen fly anglers this month, with mayfly hatches becoming more consistent.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: Dropping, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, fluctuating, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, rising,, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

General Situation:

Many rivers are high or receding, and discoloured from recent rainfall. The smaller streams will be the first to clear. Most high country lakes are clear and in good order for fishing. Some exciting salmon fishing has been reported over the last week.

North Otago Area:

The coastal rivers have just received a small fresh but have dropped back down to normal levels and are clear. The fishing in the Waitaki Lakes is improving as they continue to clear. Sockeye salmon have been reported throughout the Waitaki system. They may have been displaced by the flooding over summer. The Waitaki River is experiencing a great run of sea-run Chinook salmon. The river level has dropped and it has a milky tinge. Anglers fishing with zed spinners around Kurow have been landing salmon between 7-11kg over the last week. The salmon season on the Waitaki River and tributaries finishes at the end of this month, so anglers should make the most of this opportunity.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most backcountry rivers have received another large fresh and remain high. The larger rivers such as the Dart, Matukituki and Shotover Rivers are still discoloured. Lakes Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are clear, although there maybe some discolouration near delta areas. Landlocked salmon are congregating near river mouths before running upstream to spawn. Trolling off delta areas with bright lures may produce some good results.

Central Otago:

The Lindis is high from recent rain and the Nevis and Manuherikia are still rising. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan remains in good condition. Some very well conditioned rainbows have been caught in the Clutha River delta area.

Taieri Catchment:

High water in the lower Taieri River may encourage sea-run trout to move upstream. Anglers may experience some good spin fishing as the river begins to clear. Lake Mahinerangi is high, clear and fishing well. Andy Altman reported that woolly buggers are fishing well. He recently landed several well conditioned brown trout up to 2kg in weight.

Southwest Otago Area:

Many streams are still recovering from recent rain. The Pomahaka and the Waipahi remain high and discoloured. Salmon have been reported in the lower Clutha but not many people have been salmon fishing lately. The river is clear enough for spin fishing. The Waiwera and Kaihiku Streams are clear and in good condition. Often these small streams experience good mayfly hatches on calm march afternoons.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, fluctuating, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, rising,, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

General Situation:

Most rivers in Otago are back to normal or nearly normal levels. In most streams the water temperatures have dropped with the recent cooler nights, which should see fish feeding throughout the day. Anglers can expect some good mid-afternoon mayfly rises especially in South Otago and Southland streams. Salmon and sea run trout will be on the move in the Clutha and Waitaki systems.

North Otago Area:

The Shag, Waianakarua, Kakanui and Waikouaiti Rivers are all at medium levels, clear and fishable. There are also some nice sea run fish in the lower reaches of these rivers now and these fish will spread upstream gradually over the next few weeks. Pam from the Lake Benmore Holiday Park reports that the lake is still clearing and fish 7lbs and over are being caught from boats. The Ahuriri River is running clear.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Dart, Matukituki and Shotover Rivers are still slightly discoloured. The backcountry rivers such as the Greenstone, Lochy and the Von are presently in good order but anglers are advised to check the weather forecast before heading into the mountains. Terrestrial insect activity in the backcountry is beginning to die off for the year. Adult whitebait are congregating near major river mouths. Land locked salmon are also starting to school near river mouths in preparation for spawning. Fishing these areas with smelt patterns and small silver spinners can be very effective. Try fishing in deep water and retrieving the lure in a fast erratic action.

Central Otago:

Lake Dunstan is clear in the Clutha Arm and rainbows are starting to school up around the Clutha River mouth. Anglers fishing from the shore have been struggling but anglers fishing from the boats in the deep water have been doing well. Green woolly buggers with red beads often fish well in Dunstan at this time of the year.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is low throughout its length. In the last weeks of March sea run trout and the occasional salmon often hold up in the gorge areas near Hindon and Lee Stream. Try spin fishing the deep holes with a lure that has a flash of red.

Southwest Otago Area:

The lower Clutha River has been fluctuating from 500 to 700 cummecs each day. Seals are still playing havoc near Kaitangata. The Pomahaka is running slightly discoloured which is often a good condition for spin fishing. Salmon will be making their presence known soon. The Waipahi River is fairly low. Often small South Otago and Southland streams can experience good mayfly rises on calm afternoons in March. The Teviot River angling competition is on Sunday the 13th of March. To enter register at the Bridge Huts from 8.30am onwards.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, fluctuating, clear
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish and Game

General Situation:

Most rivers throughout the region are at normal or higher than normal levels. The majority of low land rivers are in good condition for fishing but there has been more heavy rain in the western divide and many backcountry rivers are still dropping from high flows. A south-west front is predicted for much of Otago this Saturday, which may affect river levels.

North Otago Area:

The Shag, Waianakarua, Kakanui and Waikouaiti rivers at all at medium levels clear and fishable. Jamie from the Lake Benmore holiday park reports that the lake is starting to clear and the fishing is improving. The Ahuriri River is running clear. The Waitaki River is running at about 420 cummecs and trending upwards.

Southern Lakes Area:

Many backcountry rivers received another large fresh during the week and the big rivers such as the Dart, Matukituki and Shotover are residing but still discoloured which is also affecting water clarity in the delta areas. Expect from the river delta areas, Lakes Wakatipu, Hawea and Wanaka are clear and in good condition for fishing. Paddock Bay at Wanaka has been fishing very well recently. The trout are in great condition and cruising over the shallow weed beds. Heavy rain is predicted to spill into the Otago headwaters before the weekend. Anglers going into the backcountry should be aware that rivers may rise quickly.

Central Otago:

Lake Dunstan is clear and in good order for fishing in the Clutha Arm, but discoloured from the Shotover River in the Kawarau Arm. The Lindis River is at a medium level and clear. The Manuherikia is dropping and clearing.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River remains full and tannin stained throughout its length. Fly fishing has been difficult. Spin fishing in the deeper holes throughout the lower and middle reaches may produce some sea-run trout. Anglers have been reporting some good catches of very well conditioned trout from the Logan Burn Dam.

Southwest Otago Area:

The lower Clutha has been fluctuating from 500 to 700 cummecs each day. It is a bit discoloured but clear enough for worm and spin fishing. Seals have been reported near Kaitangata. The Pomahaka is still running a bit discoloured which is often a good condition for spin fishing. The Waitahuna, Wairewa and Kaihiku Streams are at medium, clear and in good order for fly fishing. The Waipahi is fairly low. Often small South Otago and Southland streams can experience good mayfly rises on calm afternoons in March.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clearing
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium to high, slightly discoloured
Hawea River: High, fluctuating, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish and Game

General Situation:

Weather conditions and river flows have remained unsettled over the last week. Many larger rivers are still residing from high flows. Thankfully the forecast is looking better for most areas this weekend.

North Otago Area:

The Shag is at a medium level, clear and fishable, the Waianakarua is clear but rising and the Kakanui is high and slightly discoloured. The Waikouaiti River is at a medium level, dropping and slightly discoloured. The Waitaki River is dropping but it is still discoloured.

Southern Lakes Area:

Many backcountry rivers received another large fresh during the week. Fish numbers have been reported to be low in rivers such as the Lochy. Tim from the Glenorchy Hotel reports that the lower reaches of the Greenstone and the delta area have been fishing quite well, and there has been good salmon fishing in Lake Wakapitu recently. Diamond Lake and Diamond Creek are both milky in colour. Most of the major lakes remain high. Water clarity will be the best away from discoloured river delta areas. Trout may be found searching flooded lake margins for worms and terrestrial insects.

Central Otago:

Dry fly fishing on the high country dams has been quite difficult with most fish holding in deeper water. Worm anglers, and fly anglers fishing with sinking lines have enjoyed the most success over the last week. The Manuherikia is high and discoloured, the Lindis is dropping and clearing and the Nevis is at a medium level, clear and in good condition. Lake Dunstan is clear enough for fishing in the Clutha arm but discoloured in the Kawarau Arm.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is full and slightly coloured throughout its length. Angler numbers have been fairly low on the Maniototo irrigation dams over the last week. Coal Pit Dam has been fishing fairly well. Lake Mahinerangi remains high and clear.

Southwest Otago Area:

The lower Clutha remains high but is clearing. Some well conditioned sea-run trout between 2-3kg have been caught by worm anglers in the lower river recently. Spin fishing may also be effective as the river continues to clear. Some salmon should be starting to show up soon, and hopefully a run of sea-trout will move into the Pomahaka system. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are dropping and clearing after receiving another fresh.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, dropping and clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, dropping and clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clearing
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, dropping and clearing
Hawea River: High, fluctuating
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish and Game

General Situation:

Most of our rivers are still recovering from flooding last week. Often back waters and small streams are the first to become clear and fishable. The Central Otago still waters are mostly high and clear. More showers and rain are predicted for many areas over the next week.

North Otago Area:

The Shag and Waikouaiti Rivers have dropped down to normal levels and are fishable. The Kakanui River is taking longer to reside. Jamie from the Lake Benmore Holiday Park reports that fishing in Benmore has been difficult over the last week due to the dirty water conditions. The Ahuriri River is dropping and the top of Lake Benmore is beginning to clear now.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most small and medium sized backcountry rivers have dropped down to fishable levels, but more rain is forecasted for western mountains. Flooding has affected fish stock in some rivers. High flows have washed out some pools and trout are holding in fast water and runs where they are difficult to spot. Warmer weather has increased terrestrial insect activity and blind fishing with large dry fly patterns has been successful in small rivers. In the lakes, most delta areas remain discoloured and boaties should be on the lookout for floating logs.

Central Otago:

The upper Clutha is clearing and this is improving visibility in the top of Lake Dunstan. This lake remains dirty in the Kawarau Arm. Often pink florescent lures fish best in discoloured water conditions. Unsettled weather continues to make conditions challenging for dry fly anglers on the high country lakes. Last weekend the most successful method on Loganburn was trolling from a boat.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is full and tannin stained in the upper reaches. These conditions are generally better for spin fishing than fly fishing. It remains discoloured in the lower reaches. Yet again, the irrigation dams in the Maniototo such as Blakelys, Rutherfords and Coal Pit are probably the safest bet for fly anglers looking for clear conditions.

Southwest Otago Area:

The lower Clutha remains high, discoloured and potentially very dangerous. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are dropping and clearing. Often sea trout and salmon run upstream after high flows. Anglers exploring the upper Pomahaka as it clears may find some good fish.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, dropping and clearing
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, tannin stained
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, dropping and clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, dropping and clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, dropping and clearing
Hawea River: Very high, fluctuating
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish and Game

General Situation:

Most rivers in Otago are high and discoloured from very heavy rain received earlier in the week. The smaller streams will be the first to clear. The Central Otago irrigation dams are probably the best bet for anglers this weekend.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti Rivers are dropping and clearing. They should be fishable (for spin fishing at least) by the weekend if there is no more significant rainfall. The Waitaki River is flowing at around 1500 cummecs and it could be weeks before it is fishable again.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Dart River reached over 1400 cummecs during the week, the highest level since records began in 1996. Very high flows were also recorded in other large rivers such the Matukituki and Kawarau. The high flows over the last few months have knocked some of our back country rivers around, and fish numbers are reported to be lower than normal in the Dingle and Lochy Rivers. The Nevis has dropped back to a medium level and should be fishable.

Central Otago:

The Central irrigation dams are clear and in good order. There was some excellent Cicada action on the Loganburn Dam (Great Moss Swamp) last weekend. Some anglers caught up to 12 trout using Cicada dryflies. Most of the fish were in really good condition. If temperatures pick up there may be some good dry fly fishing on Loganburn, Onslow, Poolburn and Manorburn this weekend. The Manuherikia remains high and discoloured.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is high and discoloured throughout its length. It will clear first in the upper reaches around the Styx Basin. The smaller irrigation dams in the Maniototo are in good order. Blakelys, Rutherfords and Coal Pit have been fishing fairly well.

Southwest Otago Area:

The lower Clutha remains very high, discoloured and potentially dangerous. It will be some time before it is fishable again. The Mataura, Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are also high and discoloured again. Smaller streams such as the Tokomairiro and Waitahuna are dropping and clearing the quickest.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, dropping and clearing
Shag River: Medium, dropping and clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, dropping and clearing
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Very high, discoloured
Hawea River: Very high, discoloured
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish and Game

General Situation:

Unsettled weather has resulted in a real mixed bag of river conditions throughout the region. Many rivers in the Southern Lakes are dropping and clearing, most North Otago coastal streams are at medium levels and clear, and some South Otago streams are rising. The large Central Otago irrigation dams are clear and in good order. In some areas trout have been rising to Cicadas (terrestrial insects) on warm days. Showers are predicted for much of Otago this weekend.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti Rivers are at medium levels and clear. The Hakataramea and Maerewhenua are dropping and clearing. The Waitaki River is dropping and discoloured. The Ahuriri is discoloured and rising again, and the Waitaki Lakes remain discoloured.

Southern Lakes Area:

The larger rivers such as the Kawarau, Dart and Matukituki have had another large fresh and are dropping and clearing. There will be dirty water in the lakes near river delta areas. Smaller streams such as the Greenstone and Hunter will clear quickest. The controlled fishery on the Greenstone starts on 1 February. Go online to the Otago F&G website for more information.

Central Otago:

The larger central irrigation dams are worth investigating on hot days with large dry flies. Manorburn has already been producing 1-2kg rainbows on Cicada patterns during fine periods. Hopefully trout will start to rising to Cicadas on Onslow, Poolburn and Loganburn soon. The Manuherikia and Lindis are low and clear.

Taieri Catchment:

The upper Taieri River has received another fresh and is dropping and clearing. Trout in the upper reaches have been feeding on damsel flies and may start to target Cicadas soon. The lower and middle reaches remain stable and clear.

Southwest Otago Area:

The lower Clutha is still high and discoloured. The Pomahaka and Waipahi are rising after receiving rain in the head waters. Congratulations to the Balclutha Anglers who won the Williams Fishing Competition on the Pomahaka last weekend. The average length of the trout caught was around 50cm and most of the fish were landed between Tapanui and Burkes Ford. No sea-run trout were caught, but some have been reported in the upper Pomahaka.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium steady
Shag River: Medium steady
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium dropping and clearing
Taieri River at Outram: Medium steady
Pomahaka River: Medium rising
Waipahi River: Medium rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium rising
Hawea River: High clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, discoloured in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Mahinerangi: High clear
Lake Wanaka: High, discoloured near river deltas
Lake Wakatipu: High, discoloured near river deltas

With thanks to Morgan Trotter of Otago Fish and Game

General Situation:

Many waterways in the region have been high and discoloured. This has been frustrating for holiday anglers but fortunately many rivers are now dropping and clearing. However the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers remain well above normal levels.

North Otago Area:

The Shag and Kakanui are at medium levels and clear. Trout may be targeting willow grubs in slow moving pools. Lake Benmore remains very discoloured. The Ahuriri River is dropping and clearing but more north-west conditions are predicted which may result in snow melt. Lake’s Waitaki and Aviemore are discoloured with glacial silt (a milky blue colour). Bright lure patterns maybe the best chance of catching a fish.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Upper Clutha is starting to clear. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan is milky but clearing and becoming more fishable. The Kawarau Arm remains very dirty and should not be boated due to poor visibility. Recent flooding has resulted in logs floating on many of the larger lakes and boaties should take great care in general. The backcountry rivers are mostly dropping and clearing.

Central Otago:

The large irrigation dams such as Poolburn, Manorburn and Onslow remain clear and are in good order for fishing. An early start is advisable to beat the predicted north-west winds. The Manuherikia and Nevis are dropping and clearing. They will hopefully be fishable by the weekend.

Taieri Catchment:

The upper Taieri River is up slightly but clear and fishable. The Styx area has been producing some well conditioned brown trout up to 3kg in weight. Try fishing with damsel fly imitations. The lower Taieri is holding some large sea-run trout in some of the deeper holes.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha is clearing slowly and is almost clear enough for spin fishing. However it remains very high and anglers should take great care near the water’s edge. The Pomahaka has dropped back to a normal level and maybe slightly discoloured. The fresh may have enticed some sea-run trout and salmon into the system. Most small streams such as the Tokomairiro and Waipahi are now clear and fishable.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium steady
Shag River: Medium steady
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium steady
Taieri River at Outram: Medium steady
Pomahaka River: Medium steady
Waipahi River: Medium, dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Very high, discoloured
Hawea River: High fluctuating
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, dirty in Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: High clearing
Lake Mahinerangi: High clearing
Lake Wanaka: High clearing
Lake Wakatipu:High clearing

General Situation:

Many rivers sourced in the Southern Lakes and Canterbury High Country have been in flood. This has discoloured many lake-delta areas. Most other waterways are low, clear and in good condition for fishing. This report concentrates on areas that are popular over the holiday break.

North Otago Area:

The coastal streams are very low and clear. The top of Lake Benmore is discoloured from the Ahuriri River which is running high. More rain and north-west conditions are predicted in the mountains, so the high and discoloured water conditions may last for some time. Lake Waitaki and Lake Aviemore remain clear at this stage. However lakeside campers should be keep a close eye on the water levels.

Southern Lakes Area:

Major rivers such as the Dart and Matukituki have been in flood. Anglers can expect dirty near major river mouths for several days. Trolling near the discoloured water areas can be productive, but boaties should be on the lookout for floating logs. Bait fishing with worms is an underutilised method in the Southern Lakes, and it is often very productive even in discoloured water. Moke Lake and Lake Hayes are clear and have been fishing well this season.

Central Otago:

The Manuherikia River remains low and clear. Poolburn, Manorburn and Onslow should fish well over the holiday period provided it isn’t too windy. Often trolling is most productive early in the morning and worm fishing during the day. Fly anglers should try blow-fly and beetle imitations. Lake Dunstan has been fishing well. It has not received that much fishing pressure yet. Ranger, Bill Wells helped an angler land a 4.5kg rainbow recently.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River remains low and clear. Water temperatures have been rising during the middle of the day, so early morning and evenings are probably best. Lake Mahinerangi is in good condition. Try trolling in the early morning with black and gold toby lures.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha is high and discoloured. It is predicted to be high and unfishable until next Tuesday. The Catlins River has also been very discoloured lately. Fishing in the Catlins estuary would be the best chance of finding clear water. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are at low levels and in good condition for fly fishing. If it is a hot day target the cooler more oxygenated riffles, and deep water areas.

General Situation:

Many rivers received a small fresh recently but have dropped back down to low or normal levels quickly. Water temperatures in some streams have been approaching 20 degrees. Cooler weather predicted for the weekend may reduce temperatures and increase trout activity through the middle of the day. Most waterways should be in good condition for fishing this weekend.

North Otago Area:

Most streams are low and clear. The Waitaki Lakes continue to fish well. It is often a good idea to head up to the Waitaki Lakes before the holiday crowds arrive. Trolling off river mouths and weed beds early in the morning with Rapala type lures is normally fairly productive. There are a lot of krill in the Dunedin harbour, which have attracted baitfish, barracouta and a few salmon around 5kg.

Southern Lakes Area:

Limit bags of salmon have been caught off the Hawea Dam wall. High country trout often target green beetles and damsel fly nymphs in December. So green is a good colour choice for flies and lures. There have been some mayfly hatches on the Upper Clutha around mid day recently. If no mayfly activity is apparent, try fishing with a large Dobson fly larvae imitation, such as a big heavily weighted Hare's Ear nymph.

Central Otago:

The Manuherikia River remains low and clear. On calm evenings anglers can expect mayfly hatches. The Nevis is low and clear. Fishing in Lake Dunstan has been challenging during the day; and better in the evenings when trout move into the shallows to chase bullies and aquatic insects. Hamills Killers and Mrs Simpson lure flies are often effective. Good numbers of salmon have been caught in the deep water in front of the Clyde Dam.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is low and clear again after receiving a small fresh. Good numbers of flounders and a few trout have been caught near Henly by anglers fishing with worms. Lake Mahinerangi is in good condition. Schools of perch often move into the shallows as water temperatures heat up. These are great sport on light spinning gear.

Southwest Otago Area:

Most waterways are in good condition. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are back down to low levels after rising slightly. Try fishing beetle imitations on calm evenings. The Clutha River between Roxburgh and Beaumont (which is easily accessed off the Millennium Track) is often overlooked by anglers. Locals have been catching some well conditioned trout in this section. The Mataura River is low and clear and has been fishing fairly well.

General Situation:

Summer conditions have arrived and most waterways are at medium or low levels and clear. Scattered showers are forecast for many areas this Saturday, but Sunday is looking mostly fine.

North Otago Area:

The Hakataramea, Maerewhenua and all the North Otago Coastal streams are low and clear. The Waitaki Lakes are clear and producing good numbers of trout.
Ten thousand salmon were released into Lake Benmore in June and July, and now anglers are catching good numbers. These fish are great eating and up two kilos in weight. Try spin fishing near weed beds with black and gold toby lures. If that doesn’t work, switch to trolling in deep water with bright Tasmanian Devils. Some of these salmon were tagged, so if you catch a tagged fish please report it to the Central South Island Fish & Game Office (ph 03 615 8400). A few salmon around six kilos have been caught in the Dunedin harbour.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Dart and Matukituki Rivers are dropping and clearing, most other backcountry rivers are in good order. Blowfly and beetle imitations have been fishing well. Schools of salmon are cruising in the deep water off the Lake Hawea Dam wall. These are an ideal target for young and novice anglers. Try casting out a long line and a deep retrieve.

Central Otago:

As December progresses warm water temperatures will increase aquatic insect activity on our larger lakes such as Dunstan. This is a great time of the year to fish damsel fly nymph imitations like Hamills Killers flies over shallow weed beds. On smaller still waters such as Falls Dam, water temperatures will get quite high during mid day, and the early morning and evening periods may fish the best. The Manuherikia River is presently clear and low and has been fishing well.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat has risen slightly to a medium level, but it remains low elsewhere. Trout have been slashing at adult damsel flies in the middle and upper Taieri. Sometimes these fish can be caught on a large Royal Wulff dry fly with a red body.

Southwest Otago Area:

Most waterways are in good condition for fishing. The Waipahi is low and will get weedy quickly if these conditions continue. The lower Clutha is in good order. Flows have been fluctuating and tend to be lowest in the mid afternoon. There are lots of smelt in the estuary area and some very well conditioned trout have been caught. Try fishing with small silver spinning lures and silicon smelt imitations.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, steady.
Shag River: Low, steady
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: Low, steady
Pomahaka River: Medium, steady,
Waipahi River: Low, steady
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, fluctuating
Clutha River at Cardrona:Medium dropping
Hawea River: High, Fluctuating
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, dropping, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways are clear, stable and in great order for fishing. A southerly front is forecasted for many areas this Sunday afternoon.

North Otago Area:

All of the North Otago streams remain low and clear. There are still a few whitebait in the estuaries. These are highly soft after by sea-run trout and there are reports that a few Kahawai have been lurking near river mouths. These fish are highly underrated and are excellent sport on trout gear. Try bronze toby spinning lures if the traditional silver ones do not work. Soft bait lures such as silicon smelts can also be deadly. Not many salmon have been reported in the Dunedin harbour yet. A 21 pound salmon was recently caught at the Waitaki River mouth.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most back country streams are clear and in good order. However the Dart and Matukituki flows have been fluctuating, possibly due to snow melt. In December fly anglers should carry a few green beetle imitations with them. The traditional Cock- y- bondu dry fly is an excellent beetle and blow fly imitation. Good numbers of trout have been cruising the shallows of Lake Hawea near the Craigie Burn stream mouth, especially in the evenings. Bully imitations should work well. Lake Hayes has not experienced an algal bloom this season and it has been producing some great trout and a few perch.

Central Otago:

The Hawea River recently received a flush of 200 cummecs which should help to blow some didymo out. This water also flushed the Upper Clutha. These rivers should stabilise again by Friday. The Manuherikia is clear and stable and the Nevis has dropped down to a good level for fishing this weekend. The head of Lake Dunstan continues to hold good numbers of large well conditioned rainbows. It is often advisable to target this water before the xmas holidays. After the fishing pressure received during the holiday period, the trout appear to become harder to catch.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri remains clear and stable throughout its length. Look out for trout rising to mayflies on calm evenings; these fish will often change to caddis flies as darkness approaches. Relatively small dry flies (sixe 14 or even 16) generally work best on the Taieri. Lakes Waipori and Waihola have been fishing very well over the last week. Try fishing small bright spinning lures for perch, which are very active at this time of the year.

Southwest Otago Area:

Most small streams are in excellent condition; flows in the Clutha have been fluctuating daily. This is a great time of the year for exploring smaller waters such as the Waiwera and Tokomairiro, before water temperatures heat up too much. The Owaka River is often over looked by anglers and is holding a few medium sized trout at the moment.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, steady.
Shag River: Low, steady
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, steady
Taieri River at Outram: Low, steady
Pomahaka River: Medium, steady,
Waipahi River: Low, steady
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, fluctuating
Clutha River at Cardrona:Medium dropping
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

The weather for this week is looking good with long fine spells, light winds and few showers. Most waters are normal and clear and the fishing is looking just awesome! I love this time of year because fish are very active right through the day and can be caught at any time. The weather is warm enough to get insects moving, but the water has not warmed sufficiently to restrict fish activity in the middle of the day.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti are all low and clear. Brown beetles are on the go on warm evenings, and caddis are hatching in good numbers as well. The continuing warm weather has kept fish in the shadier willow-lined pools, this is a good place to target fish. All of these waters could do with some rain if they are to continue flowing over summer.

Southern Lakes Area:

Back country streams flowing into the lakes are all normal and clear and all seem to be holding good stocks of fish. Lakes Wanaka and Wakatipu are both medium and clear. Landlocked salmon have turned up again around the bottom end of Lake Hawea and Kids Bush. These can easily be caught from the shore or if in a boat try jigging a silver or pink lure.

Central Otago:

All waters in central are normal or low and clear apart from the Nevis, which is slightly high, but clear. There are good numbers of landlocked salmon around the dam end of both Lake Dunstan and Roxburgh. The best time to catch them is at dawn or dusk with a pink or silver lure as they tend to be deep, you need to let your lure sink as far as you can.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri is looking great right through this week. The Maniototo area continues to fish very well and there have been some large migratory fish caught in the Hindon area. Brown beetles are hatching in large numbers on warm evenings and there is also plenty of caddis. As the river level drops spin anglers need to use smaller lures and lighter nylon is also an advantage. Don’t forget the small streams that flow into the Taieri River such as Lee Stream and Deep Stream, they can hold some good sized fish at this time of year. Spin anglers are still reporting catches of good sized sea run trout in the lower Taieri River and Lake Waihola.

Southwest Otago Area:

All waters are normal and clear this week. Smelt are running in the lower Clutha and there are plenty of trout chasing them. The Pomahaka is normal and clear and a few migratory sea trout are starting to show up in the lower and middle reaches. All other waters in south and west Otago are normal and clear.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear.
Shag River: Low, clea
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, steady
Taieri River at Outram: Low, steady
Pomahaka River: Medium, steady,
Waipahi River: Low, dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High Steady
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

A week of largely fine weather has left most waterways clear and stable. The water temperature of some smaller streams has been rising to 18-19 degrees, which can be high enough to reduce fish activity. Spring rain and overcast conditions are predicted for many areas this weekend, and should reduce stream temperatures.

North Otago Area:

The Shag River has risen slightly with recent rain. Often trout feed actively after a small fresh. The Kakanui River remains low and steady. The Waikouaiti has been producing good catches of whitebait (the bait season closes at the end of this month). Try fishing the estuarine area with slender silver lures on an incoming tide.

Southern Lakes Area:

The rainbow trout spawning period is quite late this year. A fresh run of rainbows has just entered the Von and Lochy Rivers. Often these late run fish are smaller than trout that spawn over winter, which tend to be bigger and mature faster. The late-run trout can disturb the redds of the larger fish. So anglers should not be concerned about targeting spawning trout at this time of the year. Tungsten bead heads and glo-bugs (an egg pattern) often fish well in November. Lake Hawea has been producing good numbers of fish recently. The salmon have been smaller than normal for this time of the year. Sharon Milne reported that pink and blue lures fished very well in the weekend.

Central Otago:

The Lindis River can hold a few reasonable trout in the middle reaches and is in good condition at the moment. Try targeting the deeper pools that have lots of cover in the form of willow trees. The Manuherikia is also in good order. The Nevis River is a bit high but fishable.

Taieri Catchment:

The Lower Taieri is holding good numbers of trout which have been targeting smelt and whitebait. Fishing with soft bait (rubber/silicon lures) bully and smelt imitations in the estuary area can be very effective. Some soft bait lures have the hook rigged on top, which allows the anglers to fish the lure on sandy beaches without getting snagged. The warm weather has been increasing insect and fish activity on the smaller irrigations dams throughout the Maniototo. Try fishing damsel nymph imitations such as Hamils Killers over weed bed areas.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha is in great condition. It has been running clear, with not much sign of didymo recently. Smaller streams such as the Waipahi and Waiwera can often produce good mayfly hatches on cloudy overcast conditions that are predicted for this weekend.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium.
Shag River: low.
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, steady
Taieri River at Outram: High, steady
Pomahaka River: High,
Waipahi River: Medium, dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium Steady
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium Steady
Hawea River: Medium. steady
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

The spring weather continues with intermittent rain, sun and wind. Most rivers are high but fishable. The weather forecast for the weekend doesn’t have a lot of moisture in it and winds should help to dry things out a bit. The best fishing will probably be on the lakes, dams and some of the smaller streams of the region.

North Otago Area:

The Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti are all low and clear. These waters would be a great option for stream fishing this weekend and should fish well. Caddis are just starting to appear in the evenings now so if the weather is right fishing at dusk will be worth a crack. Tomahawk Lagoon, Sullivans Dam and Southern Reservoir continue to produce good catches of recently released fish. Please remember that the bag limit on these waterways is 1 trout per day to allow everyone a chance at catching a fish.

Southern Lakes Area:

Lakes Wakatipu and Wanaka are both medium and clear but dropping slowly. Lake Wakatipu is fishing well, with a lot of salmon being caught by trollers. Lake Dunstan is the pick of the bunch with large rainbows, some weighing over 5lb being caught in the Clutha Arm. There have been some good mayfly hatches during the afternoons on the upper Clutha.

Central Otago:

The Nevis is above normal but clear, while the Manuherikia River is in great order. Poolburn Reservoir is normal and fishing well with green and gold coloured lures producing good results. The upper Manorburn Dam and the high country rivers feeding the southern lakes all open on Monday and are all looking for fishing.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is looking good for the weekend as long as the wind doesn’t blow too hard. I am picking the Strath Taieri near Middlemarch as the spot to be this weekend. It is a highly underrated area and should receive a lot more attention than it does. The evening rise is just starting with a few caddis and mayfly rises around dusk, but next month will be the time to fish with brown beetle imitations. Trollers on lake Mahinerangi are catching good numbers of fish using Tasmanian devils and black & gold tobys.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Pomahaka River is high but dropping and is relatively clear now down to Tapanui. The Waipahi and other small rain-fed streams are in good condition. The Clutha River has had some brilliant daytime rises, from Roxburgh to Balclutha, anywhere where there is a good gravel beach. Fish are very active, particularly in calm weather and both rainbow and brown trout are in excellent condition.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium.
Shag River: low.
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, steady
Taieri River at Outram: High, steady
Pomahaka River: High,
Waipahi River: Medium, dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium Steady
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium Steady
Hawea River: Medium. steady
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Some south Otago streams were hit by the recent polar blast and many are discoloured from snow melt and rain. Most other waterways throughout the region are clear enough to fish. The weather for most of Otago is looking great for fishing this Labour weekend.

North Otago Area:

The Shag River is quite low and very clear. Most other rivers are at medium levels and clear. Many of the coastal estuaries are holding good numbers of mullet. Sometimes large sea-run trout will be found close to mullet schools and a ‘rapala’ type lure can produce a strike.

Southern Lakes Area:

All the big lakes are clear and in great condition. Quite a few rainbows still have not spawned yet. These fish and others often congregate in the deep water off the major river mouths. Orange lures and egg patterns such as ‘glo-bugs’ fished near drop offs can be very productive at this time of the year. Early morning trolling is advised, if you are struggling to catch fish during the middle of the day – fish deeper.

Central Otago:

The Manuherikia River is boisterous but clearing. Falls Dam at the head of the Manuherikia has been producing good numbers of small to medium sized browns and rainbows. This is a great place to start young anglers. The mouth of the Upper Manuherikia is particularly productive when spin fishing with small lures. The Lindis is dropping and clearing. No doubt, Lake Dunstan will be popular with boat anglers this weekend. Try harling with green ‘woolly bugger’ lures and spin fishing with small ‘rapala’ type lures over the weed beds. The Nevis River is a bit high and boisterous.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri is dropping and clearing and the lower river is steady and slightly discoloured. Small silver lures and worm fishing has been productive in the lower reaches. Lake Mahingerangi is clear and in good order. It generally fishes well over Labour Weekend, especially near the Lammerlaw Stream.

Southwest Otago Area:

When it has been clear enough to fish, the upper Pomahaka has been producing some great trout. It is dropping and clearing now. The lower Clutha system has been experiencing large runs of smelt. These are a prime baitfish for trout and some very well conditioned fish have been caught. Flows in the lower Clutha River have been fluctuating from around 700 cummecs in the early morning to around 450 in the mid afternoon.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium. steady
Shag River: low. steady
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, steady
Pomahaka River: High, dropping
Waipahi River: Medium, rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, fluctuating
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, dropping
Hawea River: Medium. steady
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

Morgan Trotter; Otago Fish & Game Council

General Situation:

Fishing conditions remain slightly patchy throughout the region. Smaller rain feed streams and still-waters are the best bet for fly anglers seeking to find clear conditions this weekend. Waters that are slightly discoloured can be very productive for spin and worm fishing.

North Otago Area:

Most small streams are clear and in good order. More reports of a seal targeting sea-run trout in the Waikouiti estuary have been received, so anglers may be better off if they avoid the tidal area. The Waitaki River is at a medium level and slightly discoloured. Spin fishing anglers have been doing quite well in the middle reaches. Lake Waitaki is also slightly discoloured and fishing well. Trolling with rapala type imitations across weed beds has been effective.

Southern Lakes Area:

Fly anglers have been enjoying success at Paddock Bay on Lake Wanaka. Diamond Creek is clear and in good condition. Salmon and trout have been targeting land-locked whitebait off major river mouths such as the Dart, Matukituki and Greenstone. Whitebait imitations such as slender silver lures and silicon flies retrieved quickly can produce some exciting takes. The salmon and trout in Lake Wakatipu are in great condition.

Central Otago:

The Manuherikia River above Omakau is fishable but it is a bit discoloured downstream of this point. The Upper Clutha is clear and in great condition. The salmon have not turned up off the Hawea Dam yet. Snail imitations fished deep, have been producing great results in Lake Dunstan. Butchers Dam has been yielding some well conditioned rainbows.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri at Canadian Flat is fluctuating from 6 to 16 cummecs because of afternoon snow melt. The Kye Burn is clear and in good order. The lower Taieri is slightly discoloured and in great condition for spin fishing with silver toby lures. Trout have been feeding heavily on whitebait in the lower Waihola and Waipori systems.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Pomahaka is high and discoloured but the Waipahi is dropping and clearing. Smaller rain feed streams such as the Waiwera, Waitahuna and Tokomairiro tend to fish the best early in the season, but are often over looked by anglers. Water temperatures and fish activity are often highest in the afternoons.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium. clear
Shag River: low. clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Snow melt fluctuations
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, dropping
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

Chris Dore: Fly Fishing Guide / Writer

Hey all, and I hope you're all still out there getting amongst it. Whilst the end of our annual freshwater fishing season has come to an end for many waters there are still a lot of opportunities out there for the hardcore angler. With little over a week to go on our southern lakes tributaries this is one of the best times to chase big-jack browns as they move up from the lake and / or lower reaches towards their spawning grounds. Many of these fish will be flighty, being in new surrounds and the cooler temperatures dont always bode too well for feeding activity. This is where big streamers come into play. My 'Dores Mr Glister' streamers are designed for these situations with lots of weight, lots of movement, and an aerodynamic profile to ensure it moves through the water freely.

Likewise, rainbows are already beginning to move around our lake deltas and are providing great sport. It is wise to carry a selection of sinking lines from fast intermediates for stripping across the shallows without 'waking' on these calm, pre-winter days, through to hardcore DI 7 designations for getting right down to where the fish will hold over the drop offs. These fish are still chasing our freshwater inanga and so sparse grey ghost type of flies, fished in a team of three work well, or you can really try and excite these fish using other options. Orange 'blob flies' and similar hotspot style streamers hit well on winter rainbows, and whilst I encourage people to vary their retrieve, often the fast, 'balls to the wall' type of stripping madness will seal the deal. Dont worry - you cant strip faster than a fish can swim.

And coming into winter we have the larger waters of the Upper Clutha river available. Large, deep and fast flows often intimidate most people who know not where to start. Look for structure and focus on those areas you can access, particularly within a few rod lengths of the bank. The secret is getting deep enough with the right flies to get down to where the fish lie. This often meand weighted leaders, split shot and heavy 'bombs' which can prove disasterous to cast on traditional fly gear- this becomes the domain of the 'double hander' making short work of getting big flies and heavy sink-tips down, fast.

As one of the only Double Handed fly casting instructors in the Queenstown area I am offering 'Introduction to Spey' trips to initiate people to the techniques and theory of Switch rod fishing. Spey tactics are applicable to any large water fishery from the Tongariro to the braided Canterbury rivers, through to coastal esturies for sea runners. Check out my winter options page for more info on my winter fly fishing offers.

So throw on your thermals, pull on your overcoat and get out there amongst it - because life's too short to not catch fish, and what else are you gonna do this winter? Ski?

Morgan Trotter; Otago Fish & Game Council

General Situation:

Unfortunately flooding has affected many lakes and rivers in Southland, South Otago and the Southern Lakes. The fishing season in many waterways that contain mostly brown trout closes on Friday. This is to protect spawning fish. This week’s report concentrates on waters that are open to winter fishing and should provide some good opportunities when the flooding is over. Please refer to angling regulation guide before you fish any water.

North Otago Area:

The Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers remain open year round downstream of their main road bridges and are clear and fishable at the moment. Spin fishing with zebra Tobies and wet fly fishing with cockabully and smelt imitations can produce some large estuary trout in winter.

Southern Lakes Area:

Many lakes and rivers are at or near flood levels at the moment. The large lakes such as Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are open all year and when they clear anglers can expect some good fishing near river mouths. There should be a run of fresh fish entering these rivers as the flooding subsides. Most of the back country rivers do not close until the end of May. Fly fishing with glo-bugs (an egg pattern) can be very effective late in the season.

Central Otago:

When Lake Dunstan clears, try trolling with bright Tasmanian Devils and Rapalas for schools of rainbows off the mouth of the Clutha. The Clutha River downstream of Luggate is open to fishing year round and can experience large runs of spawning fish during the winter months, especially after a fresh. Try a heavy nymph and a glo-bug fly, or lure fishing with a fast sinking line. Veltic and Rapala type spinning lures also work well.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River downstream of Silverstream confluence remains open all year. Spin fishing with banana, or black and gold Tobies can be effective. Sullivans Dam, Tomahawk Lagoon and the Southern Reservoir remain open and good places to go on a sunny afternoon to beat the winter fishing blues.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha River is very high and dirty now. It may take a sometime to clear but it is open to fishing year round. Spin fishing with black and gold Tobies after a flood as the river drops and begins to clear is often effective.

Good luck and make the most of the winter season. Regular fishing reports will start again on the 30th of September.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium. clear
Shag River: Medium. clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, some colour
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, some colour
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, dirty
Clutha River at Cardrona: Very high, discoloured
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, dirty
Lake Hawea: High, dirty near river mouths
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, dirty near river mouths
Lake Wakatipu: High, dirty near river mouths

Morgan Trotter; Otago Fish & Game Council

General Situation:

Most rivers throughout the region are at normal or below normal levels clear and fishable. Anglers are advised to get out and make the most of what is left of the fishing season. Many lowland rivers close at the end of this month to allow brown trout to spawn.

North Otago Area:

Unfortunately the Shag and Kakanui rivers remain very low. The Waikouaiti and Waianakarua Rivers are in slightly better shape. The lower reaches of these rivers can hold some large sea run brown trout at this time of the year. Spin fishing with Zebra Tobies and Rapala type lures may be productive.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most backcountry rivers are clear and fishable. Trout will be congregating in deep water off major river mouths such as the Dart, Greenstone, Lochy, Hunter and Makarora. These fish are waiting for a fresh before running upstream to spawn. Spin fishing with bright Tasmanian Devil lures or drift fishing glo-bugs fly (an egg pattern) near delta areas can be very effective. Diamond Creek should be holding large numbers of spawning land locked salmon and the odd large trout that has followed the salmon run to target their eggs. Fly fishing with bead head nymphs and a glo-bug can be exciting.

Central Otago:

The Manuherikia and Nevis are low and in good order for fly fishing. Ranger, Bill Wells reports that brown trout are congregating in the Clutha River near spawning streams such the Landis waiting for some rain to run upstream. The Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan has cleared up, but the fishing in the lake has been difficult lately.

Taieri Catchment:

The Maniototo is very dry and the Taieri River is low at Canadian Flat, and very low in the rest of the catchment. Many of the irrigation dams are very low. Some large trout have been reported below Mcatamneys Head Pond. Access to Blakelys Dam has been closed until next season. The algal bloom in the Southern Reservoir has died down and it is now open to fishing again. Often rainbow trout congregate in the shallows of Coal Pit Dam late in the season, offering some great opportunities.

Southwest Otago:

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers can experience good mayfly hatches late in the season. Often overlooked the Waitahuna and the West Branch of Tokomairiro Rivers are in good order and can also fish well late in the season. The Lower Clutha River is high and difficult to fish at the moment.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium. clear
Waipahi River: Medium. clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Low, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter; Otago Fish & Game Council

General Situation:

Most lowland rivers are at normal or below normal levels and are clear and fishable. Many backcountry rivers are dropping down to normal levels after receiving a large fresh. A southwest change and showers are predicted for many areas this weekend.

North Otago Area:

The Shag and Kakanui rivers remain very low and in bad need of rain. Keen anglers would be best to target major river delta areas in the Waitaki Lakes such as the Ahuriri and Otematata River mouths. Fish are likely to be schooling off the river mouths in preparing to run upstream and spawn.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Dart reached 800 cummecs and the Matukituki was also very high recently. Anglers can expect discoloured water near major river mouths. This is likely to encourage early spawning trout to congregate near delta areas and some may enter river systems. Trolling off river mouths with bright lures may produce some good results.

Central Otago:

The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan is still in good order but the Kawarau Arm has been discoloured by dirty water from the Shot Over system. The Manuherikia is low and in good order for fly fishing. Anglers may encounter some fresh run fish from the Clutha from now until the end of the season. Often over looked by anglers, the lower Fraser River is an important brown trout spawning stream and can hold good numbers of fish in late April.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat is at a normal level, while the rest of the river is low. Anglers have been catching some well conditioned fish from the Tomahawk Lagoon recently. Lake Mahinerangi has been producing the odd good bag of fish recently. Fishing on the Loganburn Dam has been difficult.

Southwest Otago:

April is a great month for fly fishing in South Otago and Southland Streams. On calm afternoons anglers can expect mayfly hatches on the Waipahi, Pomahaka and Mataura Rivers. The Mataura is in particularly good order after receiving a fresh a couple of weeks ago. Not many salmon have been reported from the Clutha or Pomahaka recently.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium. clear
Hawea River: High. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter; Otago Fish & Game Council

General Situation:

Many rivers throughout Otago received a fresh a few days ago but they have mostly dropped back to normal levels and are clear and fishable. The forecast for this weekend is largely fine for most places but some showers and northwest winds are predicted for South Otago.

North Otago Coast:

Very dry conditions in Coastal North Otago over the last month have depleted the Shag and Kakanui rivers. They desperately require heavy rain. The Waikouaiti River is in slightly better condition and anglers can expect find some large trout in the deeper pools downstream of Cherry Farm. Trout should be schooling off the major spawning rivers in the Waitaki Lakes such as the Ahuriri and the Otematata.

Southern Lakes Area:

Many backcountry rivers received a significant fresh of the 4th of April. They have now dropped back to normal levels. The fresh may have enticed some early spawning trout to run upstream. Diamond Creek and certain tributaries of the Matukituki and Hunter rivers should be holding good numbers of spawning land locked salmon. Bead head nymphs and veltic spinning lures work well on the salmon. Anglers should target the deep water off the Dart, Hunter and Matukituki River mouths for schooling trout about to run upstream and spawn.

Central Otago:

Anglers looking to catch large well conditioned trout should head to the top of Lake Dunstan near the Clutha River Outlet. At this time of the year the rainbow trout are in peak physical condition before they begin spawning. Red bead head woolly bugger lure flies and rapala type lures retrieved quickly can produce some aggressive takes as these display territorial behaviour.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat received a fresh and is now back at a normal level. The rest of the Taieri remains very low. Fishing the deep pools of the lower river early in the morning may produce large sea-run fish that have entering the river to spawn.

Southwest Otago:

The Mataura, Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers received a large fresh but are now nearly back down to normal levels. Often these rivers produce some fantastic mayfly hatches on calm afternoons at this time of the year. The fresh may have enticed large sea-run trout to run up the Pomahaka system.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium. clear
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: Low, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways throughout Otago are normal or below normal and clear. Brown and rainbow trout are beginning to congregate around river mouths in the high country lakes in preparation for spawning. Some of our lowland streams are experiencing good mid-afternoon mayfly hatches. The forecast for this Easter weekend is largely fine and anglers are encouraged to venture out and make the most of what is left of the fishing season

North Otago Coast:

The Kakanui and the Shag remain very low and require rainfall. Anglers can expect that the trout will be very wary in the crystal clear water and small light equipment is advised. The Waikouaiti and Shag estuaries should be holding some large sea run trout at the moment. Often these fish become more active in the evenings and night fishing with dark lures may produce some big fish. The salmon season is now closed in the Waitaki River.

Southern Lakes Area:

Land locked salmon should be running their spawning grounds such as Diamond Creek and the Matukituki and Hunter rivers. Small shinny lures and flies are best for these salmon. Often large trout will follow the salmon runs upstream to target their eggs and a weighted nymph or glow-bug pattern can produce some exciting fishing. Boat anglers should concentrate their efforts off the major river mouths.

Central Otago:

Many of the Central Otago water reservoirs are low. The Nevis and the Manuherikia Rivers are in good condition for fishing. Fish are preparing to run up the Manuherikia for spawning so its confluence with the Clutha would be a good spot to try. Rainbows in Lake Dunstan are in superb condition and fishing a feathered lure in the evening or at night over the weed beds might produce some big fish.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is low and clear. Fish are congregating in pools around stream mouths, waiting for a fresh to run upstream and spawn. Prior to spawning, lures with red can be very effective especially red and gold veltic spinners. To boost local fishing opportunities F&G have recently stocked Sullivans Dam with trout from the Oceania Gold Macraes hatchery. Those anglers who like to fish closer to home, large fish have been seen moving up the Leith near the Botanic Gardens.

Southwest Otago:

Anglers can anticipate some good mayfly hatches on calm afternoons. Some large sea-runs have been seen in the Pomahaka system, which is running low and clear. A few salmon have been caught around Ettrick and at Roxburgh. F&G would greatly appreciate brown trout heads from fish caught in the Lower Clutha River for a scientific study. Please note the length, where the fish was caught, freeze the head and contact Fish and Game for collection.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium. clear
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: Low, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

There has been a definite chill in the mornings recently which has reduced water temperatures. Often this concentrates fish and insect activity toward the middle (warmer) part of the day. Showers are predicted for many areas this Saturday, but the forecast for Sunday is mostly fine.

North Otago Coast:

The North Otago area is experiencing one of the driest March rainfall periods in living memory. Streams in this area desperately need significant rain. Much of the bed of the Shag River is bone dry. The Waikouaiti and Kakanui Rivers are in slightly better shape and still flowing. Anglers may be best to target estuarine waters or the Waitaki Lakes and River which have been fishing fairly well recently. The salmon season in the Waitaki River closes at the end of this month.

Southern Lakes Area:

Heavy rain in the Southern Alps resulted in significant freshes in many backcountry rivers recently. The Dart River went over 1000 cummecs. Many rivers are still residing and discoloured. As they continue to drop anglers may encounter fresh runs of trout moving upstream. Land locked salmon should start spawning in Diamond Creek soon. Anglers can expect discoloured water near major river mouths. Whitebait and salmon should still be schooling near river deltas. Trolling with bright coloured Tasmanian Devils between the clear and dirty water can often be quite productive.

Central Otago:

Lake Dunstan remains in good condition. Although there has been some rain in the upper catchments most central rivers such as the Lindis and Manuherikia remain low and clear. The Nevis is at 8 cummecs and in good order.

Taieri Catchment:

Rain in the very upper Taieri River catchment has increased flows slightly but the river at Outram remains very low. The Loganburn and most irrigation dams are very low. To boost local fishing opportunities F&G have recently stocked Sullivans Dam with trout from the Oceania Gold Macraes hatchery.

Southwest Otago:

Recent rain has slightly increased flows in the Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers but they remain at fishable levels. Moderate numbers of salmon are holding in deeper pools of the Clutha below Roxburgh and there should be the odd salmon in the Pomahaka. March and April can produce some fantastic mayfly hatches in South Otago and Southland Rivers on calm afternoons, so anglers are advised to make the most of what is left of the season. F&G would greatly appreciate frozen heads (and the fish length) from any brown trout caught in the Lower Clutha River for a scientific study.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Extremely low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium. clear
Waipahi River: Medium. clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium. clear
Hawea River: Medium. clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium. clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most rivers throughout Otago are at normal or below normal levels and are clear and fishable. Water temperatures have dropped back recently and anglers can expect more fish activity in small streams during the middle of the day.

North Otago Coast:

The North Otago streams are very low and require rainfall. There have been fish strandings in the Hakataramea recently. The salmon catch in the Waitaki has increased over the last two weeks. Anglers are reminded that the salmon season in the Waitaki River closes at the end of this month. Trolling for land locked salmon has also been quite good in Lake Waitaki. Trout are feeding on the last of the willow grubs in areas that have over hanging willows nearby

Southern Lakes Area:

Most back country rivers are low and in good condition for fly fishing. Trout and salmon are starting to congregate around the river mouths in preparation for spawning. Fishing the deep water off the delta areas can be very productive at this time of the year.

Central Otago:

Lake Dunstan has been low and clear. Rainbows are starting to school up off the Clutha River mouth. Anglers fishing from the shore have been struggling but anglers fishing from the boats in the deep water have been doing well. Green woolly buggers with red beads often fish well in Dunstan at this time of the year.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri is low and clear right throughout the catchment and fish are beginning to congregate around tributary stream mouths. A lot of these fish will be starting to display spawning behaviour. Spinning lures with a dash of red may entice them to strike. Sea trout and salmon may been holding up in deep pools of the Taieri Gorge area.

Southwest Otago:

The Clutha River below Roxburgh is low and clear and in great condition. Salmon have been recently spotted from the dam wall at Roxburgh. Try small silver or copper coloured lures and light line when the river is so clear. Adult white bait are congregating in tidal reaches of the Clutha system for spawning. Fishing with imitations such as parsons glory lures can be very effective on large trout. Electric fishing surveys in the Clutha have revealed good numbers of juvenile lamprey in backwaters. A juvenile lamprey type imitation (some of which are a fluorescent blue colour) might produce surprising results. All other rivers are low and clear and in good order for fly fishing. Anglers can expect mayfly hatches on small streams during calm afternoons.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low. clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low. clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Low, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Almost all rivers throughout Otago are low and clear at present. Water temperatures in many streams have been getting quite high during the day reducing fish activity. A south westerly front with strong winds is expected to affect many areas over the next few days, especially South and West Otago. Hopefully this will freshen low rivers and improve the fishing once it has gone through.

North Otago:

The coastal North Otago streams remain very low and require a good fresh. Sea run trout often move into estuary areas at this time of the year in preparation for spawning. The Waitaki lakes are fishing well with good numbers of browns cursing the shorelines and weed beds.

Southern Lakes Area:

The backcountry rivers are presently in good order but anglers are advised to check the weather forecast before heading into the mountains. Terrestrial insect activity in the backcountry is beginning to die off for the year. Adult whitebait are congregating near major river mouths such as the Dart and Matukituki. Land locked salmon are also starting to school off river mouths in preparation for spawning. Fishing these areas with smelt patterns and small silver spinners can be very effective. Try fishing in deep water and retrieving the lure in a fast erratic action.

Central Otago:

Most streams are very low and anglers may be better to target the larger waters such as Lake Dunstan and the Clutha River. The Clutha is presently low and in great order for all fishing methods. The cicada action which was very patchy has pretty much finished on most lakes.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is low throughout its length. In the last weeks of March sea run trout and the occasional salmon often hold up in the gorge areas near Hindon and Lee Stream. Try spin fishing the deep holes with a lure that has a flash of red.

Southwest Otago:

The Pomahaka and Waipahi rivers are very low and clear. The expected southerly change should entice sea run trout and possibly salmon to move into the Pomahaka system. Anglers can expect some good fishing after the fresh. F&G require trout ear bones from the Lower Clutha River for chemical analysis to determine their origin. Trout heads (with their location and length) would be greatly appreciated. Contact Energy are expected to flush the Lower Clutha River on Saturday to assist adult whitebait spawning. Recent drift dive study of the Lower Waiau River in Southland revealed some large brown trout that appeared to have been feeding on mice.

General Situation:

Most waterways throughout Otago are low and clear but in good condition for fishing. If the weather is settled, anglers can expect some good mid-afternoon mayfly rises especially in South Otago and Southland streams.

North Otago:

The coastal North Otago streams are still low and weedy and could do with a fresh. Flows in the Shag are low, but with cooler daytime temperatures there should be more trout activity. There could be some good may fly hatches on calm afternoons. The Hakataramea is still holding a few fish.

Southern Lakes Area:

If heading into the back country fly anglers should make the most of the dry fly activity over the next few weeks before temperatures right off and the terrestrial insect life dies off. River and stream mouths are the places to target as landlocked whitebait are congregating and heading upstream. Fishing can be fast and furious especially at dawn, using a grey ghost or silver coloured spinner, with large numbers of landlocked salmon schooling as well.

Central Otago:

Most central waterways are in good condition for fishing. Water temperatures are starting to drop in the Lindis, Manuherikia and most other central streams; these waters should be fishing well. Cooler water temperatures often result in better spin and lure fishing on the larger dams at this time of year. The cicadas are just about finished now on the high country lakes, but trout will continue to take imitations for a week or two after the real things have disappeared.

Taieri Catchment:

The lower Taieri is low but there are reports of salmon being landed above Outram. The Upper Taieri is fishing well and lets not forget Lake Mahinerangi, the lake is high and has good numbers of trout and perch. It fishes well this time of year with all angling methods.

Southwest Otago:

The Pomahaka and Waipahi rivers are in good order for fly fishing. The lower reaches of the Clutha have been producing some good spin fishing for trout chasing smelt and adult white bait. Salmon should be on the move through the Clutha system. Fish & Game require adult brown trout heads from the Clutha system below Roxburgh dam for a study on their origins. It would be greatly appreciated if any anglers landing an adult brown trout could record the length, where the fish was caught freeze the head and contact Fish & Game for collection. The Teviot River angling competition is on Sunday the 7th of March. To enter register at the Bridge Huts from 8.30am onwards.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low. clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low. clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation

Most waterways throughout Otago are experiencing summer conditions and are low and clear.

North Otago

The coastal North Otago streams are particularly low and weedy. Anglers may be best to target estuarine areas for sea run trout which enter river mouths in January and February. Banana Toby spinning lures often work well in these areas. The Hakataramea is still holding a few fish.

Southern Lakes Area

Many backcountry rivers have experienced a fresh but are now dropping back down to normal levels. This is a prime time for exploring these rivers with large terrestrial dry fly imitations such as cicadas and blowflies. During the heat of the day fish will often move into well oxygenated broken water areas, and blind fishing this water can be very productive. The Upper Clutha is low which makes it easier to access good fishing water. Try large bead head nymphs which imitate Dobson fly larvae. These insects seem to do well in didymo affected areas.

Central Otago

Most rivers are low and clear. The cicada action on high country dams has been very sporadic this season. The amount of fishing pressure on Lake Dunstan has dropped off and the fish are becoming less spooky and more cooperative. Try big dry flies along lakes edges, but try changing to a nymph if these are refused. The Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan is often over looked by anglers and is presently clear and holding some good fish. These fish can sometimes be spotted from the bank.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat remains at a normal summer level but it is very low in the middle reaches and at Outram. Some anglers have been experiencing good sedge (caddis fly) hatches on calm evenings around Outram. Dry fly fishing with small sedge fly imitations may be productive. Adult whitebait are schooling in lakes Waihola and Waipori in preparation for spawning in early March. Fishing is best in the evening with a smelt pattern or rapala along the edge of channels.

Southwest Otago

The Pomahaka and Waipahi rivers are in good order for fly fishing. Try willow grubs and terrestrial dry fly imitation during the day and sedge fliesin the evening. The Clutha River has been quite low recently and experiencing good hatches of mayflies during calm periods. Any gravel beaches between Balclutha and Clydevale would be worth investigating for mayfly action. The Teviot River angling competition is on Sunday the 7th of March. To enter register at the Bridge Huts from 8.30am onwards.

Morgan Trotter, Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low. clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low. clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation

Most coastal streams remain very low, and most South Otago waters are at medium levels. Many backcountry rivers are rising as a southerly front passes over.

North Otago:

Several North Otago streams such as the Shag and Kakanui are very low and quite weedy. A toxic algae has killed two dogs in the Silver Stream recently. This algae becomes apparent in small streams that are subject to prolonged low flows. Many North Otago streams are suffering these conditions and it would be wise to keep dogs out of these areas. The Waitaki Lakes have been fishing well and are probably the best bet for North Otago anglers this weekend.

Southern Lakes Area

Most backcountry rivers are at normal levels at the moment, but they are rising. Increased flows can attract trout to river mouths on the larger lakes. Fishing delta areas can be productive under these conditions. Trout have been chasing bullies along the edges of Lake Wakatipu recently. A ‘Mrs Simpson’ lure is an effective bully imitation. On hot days anglers can also expect trout to be rising to cicadas and large terrestrials along lake shorelines. The Lake Hawea fishing competition is on this Saturday. Entry forms are available from the Hawea pub.

Central Otago

Most rivers are low and clear. The Upper Clutha is rising with input from the Hawea River. The cicada fishing on the high country dams remains very patchy. Although not many cicadas were on the surface of Lake Onslow last weekend, some anglers were still catching trout with cicada imitations. In the morning dry fly sedge imitations were also successful, and bee imitations worked well as the weather warmed up.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat remains at a normal level but it is very low in the middle reaches and at Outram. Shore based anglers have been disappointed with the Cicada fishing at Loganburn this season. However anglers trolling from boats have been fairly successful.

Southwest Otago

The Clutha River is at a good level but there has been a fair bit of didymo in the water column recently. A few large salmon have been reported as far up as the Roxburgh Dam wall. Most South Otago streams are clear and fishable at present. Often overlooked by anglers, the Catlins waterways such as the Owaka River are also in good condition. Strong westerlies are predicted for coastal South Otago this Saturday.

Morgan Trotter, Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways remain at normal or below normal levels, clear and fishable. Water temperatures are getting high in small and medium sized streams during the middle of the day. Fishing can be more productive early morning or late evening. If fishing during the heat of the day, target riffle areas and deep pools where there will be more oxygen in the water.

North Otago:

Some North Otago streams such as the Shag have received a slight fresh but they all remain very low and weedy. Many are suffering with algal blooms in their lower reaches. More rainfall is required to rejuvenate flows and flush the algae out.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most backcountry rivers are at normal or below normal levels clear and in excellent order for dry fly fishing. The cicadas have been active over the last week and anglers have been doing well with large dry fly patterns. The general level of boating activity on the lakes is reducing. Trout are returning to shallow areas early morning and in the evenings. Butchers Dam has been producing good numbers of rainbows, which were released from the Macraes Hatchery. Staff have observed good number of trout in the Upper Dingleburn.

Central Otago:

Most rivers are low and clear. Cicada fishing on the high country dams has been very patchy. Poolburn has been fishing very well on certain days, but Loganburn anglers have been frustrated with a lack of cicadas making it to the water. Lake Roxburgh (which is often overlooked by anglers) has been fishing well recently. One party landed ten fish (browns, rainbows and salmon) all in very good condition. Green and yellow king cobra lures were the most effective. Lake Dunstan has been experiencing good midge rises early morning and late in the evening. The Upper Clutha is in good order for spin fishing with Veltic and Rapala lures.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat remains at a reasonable level but it is very low in the middle reaches and at Outram. Trout have been chasing damsel flies on the irrigation dams. Hamilton’s Dam has been drained in order to fix a leaking pipe. Boat anglers have been doing very well trolling on Lake Mahinerangi with Rapala type lures.

Southwest Otago:

The Clutha River is in good order. River levels have been dropping during the afternoons, making it easier for anglers to fish the water. A 16lb salmon was landed near Stirling during the week. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are also in good condition. Some sea run trout are present in deep pools of the Pomahaka system.

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear

Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

A large high pressure system has been situated over much of Otago this week. Most waterways are at normal or below normal levels, clear and fishable.

North Otago:

All of the North Otago small streams remain very low and require rainfall. The Waitaki River is fairly high at 500 cummecs. Lake Waitaki continues to fish well and this might be the best option for North Otago anglers this weekend.

Southern Lakes Area:

All rivers and lakes are clear and in good condition for fishing. The high pressure system has really increased insect activity, and trout are beginning to target Cicadas. Anglers can experience excellent dry fly fishing on backcountry rivers at this time of the year. Cicada, blow fly and bee patterns generally fish well. In shallows of some lakes water temperatures have been getting high during the heat of the day, pushing trout into deeper cooler water.

Central Otago:

Trout have been targeting Cicadas on Poolburn and Loganburn over the last week. Lake Onslow has been producing good numbers of small to medium sized fish on Cicada patterns. The Upper Clutha is in very good order for fly fishing, especially sedge fishing on calm evenings. The Manuherikia River, Nevis River and Dunstan Creek are all low and clear. The Lindis River is getting very low.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat is at a reasonable level but it is very low in the middle reaches and at Outram. The south arm of Lake Waihola is clear and in good order for spin fishing. Lake Mahinerangi remains at a good level. This waterway can produce good numbers of perch in summer. These are an excellent target for young anglers using light spin fishing equipment.

Southwest Otago:

The Clutha River has finally dropped to a reasonable level and cleared. It is presently in excellent condition for spin and fly fishing. Although not many salmon anglers have been out, a few salmon have been caught lately. A 22lb salmon was caught near Baclutha, and fish weighing around 14lb have been landed as far up as Millers Flat. Spin fishing in deep holes with silver z spinners may well produce exciting results. All South Otago streams are clear and in good condition for fly fishing. Good numbers of fish have been reported in the Waipahi River which is at a normal level. The Pomahaka is also in very good order and contains a few sea-run trout at the moment.

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear

Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most of the Otago is experiencing summer conditions, and rivers are at normal or below normal levels, clear and fishable.

North Otago:

All North Otago small streams remain very low and weedy. Many are experiencing algal blooms in their lower reaches. The Waitaki River is fairly high at 570 cummecs and no salmon have been reported lately. The Waitaki Lakes are also high; Benmore and Aviemore are slightly discoloured. These conditions are productive for spin fishing and trolling. The Ahuriri River arm of Benmore has been producing good numbers of rainbows around 2kg. Lake Waitaki is clear and has been fishing well.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most backcountry rivers have now cleared and dropped down to normal flows after receiving a fresh. Hot weather over the last week is starting to increase insect activity. Blow fly and beetle patterns should fish well on backcountry rivers. The Greenstone Controlled Fishery starts on the 1st of February, apply on the Fish & Game website for beats.

Central Otago:

Heavy rain in parts of Central last week provided some much needed water to low rivers. The Manuherikia was high but has dropped back down to a fishable level. The Nevis is at 15 cummecs and in good condition. Anglers on high country dams have not reported any Cicada action yet. Hopefully the large high pressure system expected next week will get the Cicadas going.

Taieri Catchment:

The Lower Taieri has been experiencing midge and sedge fly hatches on clam evenings. Some tributaries in the middle catchment discoloured the main stem after receiving thunder plumps. The Taieri is now clear and the upper river is in good order for fly fishing. Damsel flys have been very active on irrigation dams and oxbows in the upper river catchment. A Hamill's Killer is an effective damsel nymph imitation.

Southwest Otago:

Parts of South Otago received a thunder plump last week and many rivers rose unexpectedly. Despite discoloured water conditions some anglers using worms and spinning lures on the Pomahaka River caught trout of 5 and 6 kg last weekend. These were probably sea-run fish enticed upstream by the fresh. Salmon are starting to show up in the Lower Clutha River as well. Most small streams are now at normal levels and in good order for fishing. The Waitahuna River has been producing some well conditioned trout around 2 kg recently.

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Weather conditions have been fairly unsettled in many places over the last week. There has been a general trend of rough weather in the western ranges and dry conditions in the North Otago area.

North Otago:

The Kakanui, Waianakarua, Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers are experiencing very low summer flows, and are quite weedy. They all would benefit from a good fresh. Anglers may be best to target estuarine areas in the evening or early morning when water temperatures are cooler. Over the next few weeks adult smelt will to start to spawn just above the tidal limit in estuary areas. They are a favourite target of large trout.

Southern Lakes Area:

There has been quite a lot of rain in the western mountains and inflowing rivers have been up and down a lot recently. Many major river mouths have been discoloured. The dry fly action on backcountry rivers has been fairly patchy so far this summer due to the unsettled weather. Anglers can apply online for beats in the Greenstone Controlled Fishery starting on the 1st of February, from the 27th of January onwards. Simply visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago:

The Upper Clutha River is high but clear and in good condition for spin fishing. On warm evenings fly anglers may experience a sedge rise. Lake Dunstan is in excellent order for all fishing methods. Manorburn Dam continues to fish well for anglers spin fishing and trolling. It has been producing large numbers rainbows of around 1.5kg and in good condition. There have been no reports of trout rising to cicadas on the high country lakes yet.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River at Canadian Flat is at a medium level but low in the middle reaches and at Outram. There have been some good midge hatches during the day on the Upper Taieri recently. Anglers should try long fine leaders and small imitations. Fishing downstream so the trout does not get a chance to see the leader can be more successful than casting upstream. We have received a report of a 4kg sea run trout and the odd salmon been caught in the Taieri estuary recently. Spin fishing with banana toby lures in the evening might produce some exciting results.

Southwest Otago:

Most streams have resided and cleared after receiving a good flush. They are now in good order for fishing. The flush may have encouraged some sea trout and the odd salmon to run up the Pomahaka system which is now clear. The Clutha River is still high. The Mataura River is dropping and clearing.

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: High, dropping and discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Strong winds and bad weather have been very frustrating for many anglers recently. Rivers throughout much of South Otago and the Southern Lakes have experienced flooding. Some much needed rain has fallen in parched Central and North Otago, and freshened streams in these areas. The forecast for this weekend is fairly good for most of Otago.

North Otago:

The Kakanui, Waianakarua, Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers have received a small fresh after moderate rainfall in their catchments. However these rivers all remain low and clear. They are in good condition for fly fishing with light equipment.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most rivers have received significant rain over the last week and have been high or in flood. Anglers can expect discoloured water nears the mouths of major rivers for several days. The Motatapu River is in good condition and the Upper Clutha is dropping. Where permitted, anglers can expect some good results spin fishing in slightly discoloured waters.

Central Otago:

Terrestrial insect activity normally starts to heat up in mid January. Unfortunately weather conditions have been too cold for much Cicada activity on the Central Dams so far this season. Lake Dunstan is dirty below the Kawarau Arm. The Clutha arm has been fishing well in the evening for anglers using bully imitations.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri has been quite high and some farmers had concerns about stock near the river. High levels will hopefully help to recharge to oxbows and wetlands and maintain river flows over summer. The Lower River has been producing good numbers of flounders and the odd sea run trout recently.

Southwest Otago:

Many rivers have been in flood and are still high. The smaller South Otago streams such as the Waitahunia and Tokomairiro should be the first to clear and fish well. The Pomahaka River is still very boisterous and discoloured. This flush may entice some sea run trout into the system as it drops and clears over the next few weeks. The Clutha River has been very high and discoloured most of the week. It is now beginning to drop and clear. These are generally good conditions to prospect for salmon in the deeper pools.

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clearing
Pomahaka River: Very high, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, dropping and clearing
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, dropping and clearing
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, droppingbr> Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

River conditions throughout the region are a real mixed bag this week. Several North Otago streams are suffering drought like conditions, while many of our backcountry rivers are recovering from high flows. A heavy rain warning for the headwaters of Otago Rivers has recently been lifted, but backcountry anglers are advised to watch weather conditions carefully.

North Otago:

The Kakanui, Waianakarua, Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers are all very low and weedy. Water temperatures have been rising in these streams. Hopefully they will receive some significant rainfall soon; otherwise the ecology of the rivers could be adversely affected.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most backcountry rivers have been quite flashy over the holiday period. They are beginning to drop down now but more rain is predicted over the next few days. Anglers can expect discoloured water near major river mouths. Trolling close to the discoloured water can be productive. Unfortunately strong winds have been frustrating for boat anglers recently. Early morning is often the best chance of beating the wind.

Central Otago:

The Nevis River is at 19 cummecs and dropping down to a fishable level. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan has been very popular recently but the fishing has been difficult. The most successful anglers have been fishing with fast sinking lines and snail and bully imitations. The Upper Clutha River is at a medium level and rising.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is extremely low for this time of the year. Some showers have been reported in parts of the Maniototo; hopefully these become steady rainfall and refresh the river. In the estuary area anglers using sea worms have been catching good numbers of trout, perch and flounders recently.

Southwest Otago:

Contact Energy are planning to flush Lake Roxburgh. Anglers can expect very high levels and discoloured conditions in the Lower Clutha River. If rain falls as currently forecasted flushing could continue for several days. The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers have settled down and are in good condition for fishing. Trout are beginning to rise to willow grubs. These are very small yellow grubs that fall from willow leaves and float on the surface of the stream. Anglers are advised to carry some imitations with them along with lots of patience. Trout feeding on these grubs can be exciting to fish for, but very challenging to catch.

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, rising
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways in the South Otago and the Southern Lakes are in good condition for the holiday break. Many streams in North Otago and the Maniototo are very low and require rainfall. This report concentrates on holiday “hot spots”; areas that should fish well over Christmas and New Year.

North Otago:

Campers near the Waitaki Lakes are advised to watch out for high water levels as Pukaki and Tekapo are full. Lake Benmore, Aviemore and Waitaki are crystal clear. These large lakes can accommodate a lot of angling pressure and still produce good fishing early in the morning or late in the evening. Trolling with small rapala type lures near weed beds has been successful lately. There have been some good sedge hatches on the Waitaki River recently. Below Kurow the fish are in good condition, but between Kurow and the Dam their condition is average to poor. One salmon has been caught and a few seen in the Waitaki River.

Southern Lakes Area:

Most backcountry rivers have dropped and are now clear. Terrestrial insect activity is increasing and blowfly and green beetle imitations are fishing very well. There have been good numbers of fish cruising along the shorelines of Wanaka and Hawea. Small fish imitations such as the Monsums Bully are recommended. Boat anglers should target river mouths and delta areas early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Central Otago:

Sedge fly activity has been fairly limited on the Upper Clutha which is very high and clear. Harling with a green woolly bugger early in the morning or late in the evening is an effective method of catching trout in Lake Dunstan at this time of the year. Retrieving a snail pattern slowly on a sinking line can also be very productive.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is very low, but there has been the odd sea run trout caught near Taieri Mouth. The Manorburn Dam has been producing some fine conditioned rainbows. Lake Mahingerangi and Loganburn Dam are high and have been fishing well. Damsel fly imitations can be very effective on the Maniototo irrigation dams such as Coalpit and Blakeys at this time of the year.

Southwest Otago:

There have been some good mayfly rises on the Pomahaka River above Kelso recently. High numbers of mice have been reported around the Mavora Lakes, Lake Manapori and the Waiau River above Lake Monawai. Fishing at night with a floating rapala or mouse imitation in these areas could produce some exciting results.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

Morgan Trotter, Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Very low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low. clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low. clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways are in fairly good condition for fishing. The forecast for Coastal and South Otago is for patchy showers and southerly winds this weekend. In Central Otago north westerlies are predicted to strengthen on Saturday, and a southerly change is expected to arrive on Sunday.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanuiand Waikouaiti Rivers all remain very low and clear. Most deep pools in these streams are still holding good sized trout but these waters would benefit from some rainfall soon.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Shotover, Dart and Matukituki Rivers are residing and clearing after receiving a fresh. Most backcountry rivers are dropping back to normal levels and should be fishable this weekend. Green beetle numbers are starting to increase and fly anglers should carry imitations with them. A trout was recently caught off the mouth of the Lochy River with mice and a small rat in its stomach! A mouse imitation fished near river mouths at night might produce surprising results.

Central Otago:

The Nevis has dropped back to 15 cummecs and should be at a good level for fishing over the weekend. The Lindis and Munuherikia Rivers are at medium levels and clear. There are a few fish holding on in the Lindis this season. Ranger Bill Wells, reports that Lake Dunstan has been fishing well with good numbers of browns around the 3lb caught recently. Anglers should try damsel fly imitations over the weed beds.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri River received a slight fresh and is now at a medium level and clear. The Lower Taieri is low and clear. There are still good numbers of brown beetles around to produce rises on warm evenings. Perch are starting to become more active on Lake Waipori and Waihola. Worm fishing with a bubble is an effective method of catching perch and a great way to start children fishing

Southwest Otago:

There have been showers in South Otago over the last week and most rivers are at medium levels. The Lower Clutha remains very high and discoloured. We have been receiving rumours that parts of Fiordland are experiencing a mouse plague and this is producing some huge fish. This could be worth investigating over the summer holiday break, especially if your new year’s resolution is to catch a trophy trout.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, dropping
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways in Coastal Otago are low and clear, but there has been heavy rain in the Southern Alps and many back country rivers are receding after receiving a large fresh. The forecast for Central and North Otago is largely fine on Saturday. There are showers predicted for South Otago.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti catchments received some rain but more is required. All of these rivers remain low and clear. Weed growth is starting to build up on the Shag. Anglers may be more successful if they target cooler parts of the day (early morning and evening) when water temperatures are lower.

Southern Lakes Area:

There has been heavy rain in the mountains and most back country rivers were very high. The Dart and Matukituki Rivers both reached around 800 cummecs. These rivers are dropping and clearing now. Anglers can expect dirty water conditions near river mouths in the Southern Lakes for some time. Often trolling along the margin between dirty and clear water is very productive.

Central Otago:

The Nevis is at 21 cummecs (fairly high) and dropping. The Lindis and Manuherikia Rivers received a slight fresh, but the Manuherikia remains very low. The Upper Clutha is very high and rising. The Kawarau River and the Bannockburn Arm of Lake Dunstan is discoloured. Anglers may be best to concentrate their efforts on the large lakes such as Manorburn (which has been fishing well) before the holiday crowds arrive and the trout generally become more difficult to catch.

Taieri Catchment:

The Maniototo is very dry and the Taieri River is low and clear throughout its length. It is down to 4.5 cummecs at Outram which is particularly low. Hopefully we receive more rain in this catchment soon. There have been lots of brown beetle flying on warm evenings in the Maniototo, where anglers can expect some good evening rises. Fishing in the Loganburn normally improves as water temperatures increase in December. Worm fishing from the shore can be very productive.

Southwest Otago:

Contact Energy has been flushing sediment from Lake Roxburgh, so the Lower Clutha has been very high and discoloured. The Pomahaka River is very low and clear. Flows in this river have been stable over the last week and anglers have been experiencing some excellent mayfly rises recently. There have been large falls of spent spinners (a mayfly life stage) on the Mataura River recently. However the trout have been very selective and challenging to catch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly discoloured
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear rising
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Low, clear, rising
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways throughout Otago are at low or normal levels and clear. The forecast for Saturday is largely fine, but there is a southerly change predicted for many areas on Sunday.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti Rivers are all very low and clear. The Kakanui is at minimum flow levels and irrigation restrictions have begun. Lake Waitaki has been fishing very well this season. Try small green woolly buggers and bead head nymphs over weed beds. Trolling with small rapala type lures in the shallows and near drop-offs (between shallow and deep water) is deadly on all of the Waitaki lakes at this time of the year. Hopefully the hot weather will see increased salmon activity in the Dunedin Harbour over the next few weeks.

Southern Lakes Area:

The backcountry rivers remain low and clear and most lakes are at medium levels and clear. These are ideal conditions for stalking trout and fly fishing. Terrestrial insect activity is starting to warm up. In particular green beetles and blow fly numbers should increase over the next few weeks, so carry a few imitations with you.

Central Otago:

This area is very dry and the Manuherikia River remains very low. The Nevis is at 18 cummecs and dropping back after a slight fresh. It should be in good order by the weekend. The Lindis is also dropping back after a slight fresh and should be in ideal condition for fly fishing. There are a few medium sized and the occasional large brown trout in the middle reaches of the Lindis, which are often over looked by anglers. Evening sedge fly (an aquatic insect) activity should increase on the Upper Clutha with the warming temperatures.

Taieri Catchment:

Parts of the Maniototo received some rain recently but more is needed badly. The Taieri River is low right throughout its length. Lake Mahinerangi has been unusually high this season and fishing fairly well. Perch should begin to turn up in the shallows now that water temperatures are warming. They take small spinning lures and worms readily; making them an ideal target for young anglers and people learning to fish.

Southwest Otago:

The Pomahaka, Waipahi and the streams of the Catlins are all low and clear. In these waters try fishing small bead head nymphs in riffles during the warmer parts of the day, and sedge dry fly imitations in the pools on calm evenings.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways throughout Otago are at low or normal levels, but unfortunately strong winds over the last week have made fishing conditions difficult. The forecast for Saturday is for improving weather. Increased temperatures should result in more terrestrial insect activity and dry fly action over the next few weeks.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti Rivers all remain low and crystal clear. The Waitaki Lakes are clear and in good condition, but there has been consistent north westerly gales frustrating angler efforts. The salmon are starting to run in the Dunedin harbour.

Southern Lakes Area:

The majority of backcountry rivers are low and clear. There was a fresh in the Dart catchment recently so the Greenstone and Caples may have received a much needed flush. The Wanaka Angling Club ran a very successful ‘take a kid fishing event” on Lake Hawea last weekend. There were some good sized salmon up to 1.5kg caught.

Central Otago:

The central area is becoming very dry and the Manuherikia River is quite low and it appears that fish numbers have decreased. The Teviot Anglers Club held a child fishing day at Lake Onslow last Sunday. Although the trout were not overly large (averaging 33cm long) the catch rate was fairly high and the children had a great day out. Try the shoreline of Lake Dunstan near the Lowburn inlet for brown beetle rises on calm evenings.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Maniototo is very dry and the Taieri is low and clear which is good for fly fishing. Anglers should look out for caddis fly hatches and brown beetle activity near dark. Rutherfords Dam has been fishing quite well recently with some good conditioned fish caught. Anglers are advised to target the Maniototo irrigation dams over the next few weeks before weed growth around the edges makes fishing difficult.

Southwest Otago:

Get up early and try a banana toby (a spinning lure) in the Lower Clutha for sea run trout. The Pomahaka is in great condition for fly fishing. Anglers have been experiencing some good mayfly activity above Kelso. The Waipahi is very low and clear. The streams of the Catlins are low and clear as well.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Very low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation:

Most waterways are in fairly good condition for fishing but strong spring winds have hampered many anglers efforts over the last week. Another southerly front is expected to arrive on Friday, with wind and rain predicted for much of Otago over the weekend. Anglers looking for shelter should head to North Otago on Saturday morning, which is predicted to have fine weather before northerly winds develop in the afternoon.

North Otago Coast:

The Waikouaiti, Shag, Maerewhenua and Hakataramea Rivers are all in good order for fishing. Try small (size 14) gold bead head nymphs for the rainbows in the Hakataramea and Maerewhenua and small hares ear nymphs for the browns. Brown beetles are becoming more common in the evenings so don’t forget to carry a few terrestrial imitations with you.

Southern Lakes Area:

The Upper Lochy and Greenstone Rivers require a good flush to clean out didymo out of their systems. Anglers must remember to Check, Clean and Dry their equipment before moving between waterways to avoid spreading didymo into new areas, especially Fiordland. Most backcountry rivers are holding good numbers of fish which are starting to become well educated. Diamond Creek is in good condition but has been getting a lot of fishing pressure. It appears that flooding in Hunter River over winter has filled many of the holding pools with gravels.

Central Otago:

The Nevis is high but dropping and the Manuherikia is in excellent order for fishing. The fishing in Lake Dunstan is starting to become more difficult as the season progresses. Anglers should try harling early in the morning or late in the evening to have more chance of catching wary trout. On Sunday the 29th of November there will be a “Wild Rivers Day” on the Nevis River, starting at 11.30am at the Nevis Crossing. Watch out for the public notice in this Saturdays ODT.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri is dropping back to normal levels after received a small fresh a few days ago. The Lower Taieri is normal and clear. The Lammerlaw Arm of Lake Mahinerangi has been fishing well, with anglers experiencing good midge fly hatches on calm mornings.

Southwest Otago:

The level of the Upper Pomahaka River has risen slightly after some rain. The Waipahi is low and clear. Unfortunately strong winds battered participants on the annual Waipahi Gold Medal competition last weekend, but a few good bags of fish were caught by some expert anglers.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clearing
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, rising slightly
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Very High, discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most waterways are in excellent order for fishing. Unfortunately north westerly winds and then a southerly change are predicted for much of Otago this Saturday. On Sunday a few showers are predicted for coastal areas and it should be fine with westerly winds inland.

North Otago Coast

The Maerewhenua River and Hakataramea Rivers are in great order and carrying excellent stocks of fish for the opening day this Saturday. The Shag and Waikouaiti Rivers have dropped quite a lot over the last week. Anglers are advising to make the most of the good fishing conditions in these rivers, before they possibly get too low over summer. Brown beetles are starting to fly on warm evenings, so carry a few imitations with you.

Southern Lakes Area

Most backcountry rivers were carrying good fish stocks and fished well over on opening day, last Sunday. After opening day some rivers became slightly high and discoloured with snow melt. The middle reaches of the Lochy River have been fishing particularly well recently. Good numbers of trout have been cruising the shoreline of Lake Hawea. Often small Hares Ear nymphs and bully imitations work well on these fish.

Central Otago

The Upper Manorburn Dam fired very well with some excellent conditioned rainbows being caught on opening day, last Sunday. Lake Dunstan is probably the most consistent fishery in Otago and it continues to produce excellent conditioned fish.

Taieri Catchment

The Upper Taieri received a small fresh earlier in the week, but it has dropped back down to a normal level. As water temperatures rise damsel flys should becoming more active on the Taieri Oxbows and Maniototo irrigation dams such as Coal Pit, Blakelys and Rutherfords. Anglers should try slender green nymphs fished near the weed beds.

Southwest Otago

The Lower Clutha River has been producing some hatches of mayflies in the shallows around Clydevale on warm calm afternoons. The Pomahaka River is clear and the water temperature has risen to 14 degrees which is great for fish and insect activity. Good luck to all the anglers fishing the Waipahi Gold Medal competition this Saturday. They should make the most of the morning because a strong southerly change is predicted for the afternoon.

Morgan Trotter
Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Low, clear and dropping
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium clear
Pomahaka River: Medium clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear and dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation

Most rivers are at normal levels and in good condition for fishing when weather conditions allow. A cold southerly blast should clear by Friday leaving Saturday fine and sunny for most of Otago. Most tributary rivers in the Southern Lakes open on the first of November which is this Sunday. Opening day for many Central South Island Rivers is the first Saturday in November which falls on the 7th. This gives keen anglers an opportunity to experience two opening days in two weekends!

North Otago Coast

The Shag River has risen slightly and is in ideal condition for fly fishing. Some large trout up to 9 pound have been caught recently. These fish are cruising the larger pools and feeding on caddis. Small brass bead head nymphs are working well. The Kakanui and Waikouaiti Rivers are also in good condition.

Southern Lakes Area

Most back country rivers are clear, carrying healthy stocks of fish and looking good for the start of the season. The Greenstone and Caples traditionally fish very well on opening day. Anglers are reminded that a backcountry licence is required for the Nevis, Lochy, Dingle Burn, Caples and Greenstone Rivers. Backcountry licences can be obtained free of charge to whole season licence holders from the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The Upper Manorburn Dam opens on Sunday. Anglers often experience good catch rates on this water early in the season. Fish & Game staff will be present to check licences and obtain fishery information. The Nevis and Manuherikia Rivers are slightly high and boisterous. Lake Dunstan continues to fish well.

Taieri Catchment

The Upper Taieri River is up slightly high but it should drop and be in good order for the weekend. The Lower River is clear and in good condition for all fishing methods. The Dunedin Reservoirs have been fishing well recently with some good rises experienced on clam evenings.

Southwest Otago

The Lower Clutha River has been producing well conditioned fish lately; although didymo has been a bit of a nuisance at times. The Pomahaka River is a bit high but should drop over the next few days. The Waipahi Gold Medal competition will be held on the 7th of November.

Morgan Trotter
Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Slightly high, dropping and clearing
Taieri River at Outram: Medium clear
Pomahaka River: Slightly high, dropping
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation

Most of Otago's waterways have been at normal levels over the last week. Hopefully any rain received before Labour Weekend will not be enough to discolour rivers. Anglers heading out this weekend should make the most of the good weather predicted for this Saturday because a southerly front is expected for many areas on later on Sunday.

North Otago Coast

The Tomahawk Lagoon, Sullivans Dam and Southern Reservoir continue to produce good catches of recently released fish. Please remember that the bag limit on all these waterways is 1 trout per day to allow everyone a chance at catching a fish. The Shag River is getting low but is still in good condition for fly fishing. The Kakanui and Waikouaiti Rivers are at medium levels and clear.

Southern Lakes Area

Anglers heading up the Lakes this Labour weekend should try Wanaka or Hawea which have been fishing well. The trout are mostly in very good condition but some of the salmon have been in average condition possibly because there is so many of them. Halco diving lures are working very well especially the poltergeist pattern. Also try dark blue or silver lures fished deep. Anglers looking to access the Clutha River which is in good condition should keep an eye out for Blue Anglers Access Markers.

Central Otago

The Manuherikia River is up slightly and in good order for spin fishing. The Nevis remains slightly high and boisterous. Dunstan has been fishing very well over the last week.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri River is up slightly and has a bit of colour making ideal conditions for spin fishing. Lake Mahinerangi is high and clear and would be an excellent spot to take the children fishing on Saturday. Some superbly conditioned fish have been caught from Maniototo irrigation dams recently.

Southwest Otago

The Waipahi is at a good level for fishing and some large bags of fish have been caught recently. There are still good numbers of white bait and smelt in the Lower Clutha River. Some anglers have been catching half a dozen trout each morning with silver and white coloured spinning lures. Bait fishing with smelt (caught in whitebait nets) has also been very successful.

Morgan Trotter, Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Low clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Slightly high and discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Slightly high and discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

General Situation

Most of Otago’s waterways are at normal or below normal levels for this time of the year and in good order for fishing. There is some patchy rain and drizzle predicted for many areas this weekend. Anglers would be well prepared if they take a spin fishing rod with them in case conditions are not suitable for fly fishing.

North Otago Coast

Dunedin anglers will be pleased to hear that the Tomahawk Lagoon, Sullivans Dam and the Southern Reservoir have all been recently stocked with trout from the Macares Flat Hatchery. This is run in conjunction with Oceania Gold and the Otago Fish & Game Council. Some of recently released fish weigh up to 12lb! The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti rivers are all holding a few big sea runs in their lower reaches. Easterly winds are predicted for coastal Otago over the weekend.

Southern Lakes Area

All of the large lakes are clear and fishing fairly well. Salmon are starting to turn up in good numbers. Trolling in the deep water off major river mouths such as the Greenstone and Matukituki River with bright Tasmanian Devils and silver spinners is a good method of targeting these fish. If you catch a salmon, fish the same water again as they normally travel in schools. The Dart River received a fresh but has now dropped back to normal levels.

Central Otago

The Manuherikia River and Dunstan Creek are at slightly below normal levels, clear and in great order for fly fishing. The Nevis is slightly high and boisterous. The fishing in Lake Dunstan has been exceptional recently with reports of some very large rainbows being caught in the Clutha Arm. The Kawarau Arm is slightly discoloured. Dunstan anglers should try damsel fly and snail imitations or midge flies if you see trout rising.

Taieri Catchment

The Upper Taieri River is clear and in good order for fly fishing. Some of the smaller tributaries such as the Kye Burn have been producing some large browns recently. The Lower Taieri is slightly discoloured and in good condition for spin fishing with whitebait imitations.

Southwest Otago

Many South Otago streams such as the Waipahi can fish well in overcast and drizzly conditions that are predicted for this weekend. The water temperature in many South Otago streams has started to rise over the last few weeks; it is around 11 degrees in the Pomahaka. This should increase insect and fish activity. The Lower Clutha River is full of whitebait and has been fishing very well. Anglers should try small silver lures and fly lures such as Parsons Glory and Jack Sprat.

Morgan Trotter, Otago Fish & Game Council

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: Medium, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

Most waterways are in good condition for fishing at the moment. However, a southerly blast is expected to spread across much of Otago over the next few days, which will make fishing conditions challenging. The weather is predicted to clear on Sunday.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti rivers are all in good order for fishing. Try whitebait imitations in their lower reaches. The Pleasant River estuary has been producing the odd large sea run trout recently.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all clear and fishing well when weather conditions allow. Timaru Creek is open downstream from the road bridge and this area normally holds good number of rainbows in October. With the lake level high there should be some good fishing in the delta area.

Central Otago:

The Fraser and Manuherikia Rivers have been fishing very well recently. The Nevis is also in good order but be careful when driving above Commissioners Creek, as there are some slips on the road. Lake Dunstan continues to fish exceptionally well, especially in the Clutha delta area. Good numbers of large well conditioned brown and rainbow have been caught recently. Harling with a green woolly bugger fly off the Clutha River mouth can be very productive at this time of the year.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is slightly discoloured at the moment and in good condition for spin fishing. The oxbows in the Upper River have been fishing very well with some trout up to 5lb caught recently. In the Lower River angler should try worms and porina grubs in the deep holes and spin fishing with small silver bait fish imitations.

Southwest Otago:

Most South Otago rivers such as the Pomahaka and Waipahi are at medium levels but slightly coloured. They could easily become unfishable depending on how much rain is received over the next few days. The Lower Clutha River has been fishing very well recently. There is a lot of whitebait in the river around Kaitangata and the smelt have started to turn up in good numbers as well. Experienced anglers often bait fish with smelt which can be irresistible to large sea run trout.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

River and lake conditions are compiled by Fish and Game Otago with information from the Otago Regional Council received at 9.00am.

General Situation:

Most rivers and lakes in North and Central Otago are in fairly good condition for the start of the season. Unfortunately a southerly front is predicated to sweep across much of Otago around midday on Saturday which may make fishing conditions challenging. Anglers are advised to take spin fishing equipment with them this weekend in case the weather is too windy or the water too discoloured for fly fishing.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag and Waikouaiti rivers have received a small fresh and are now slightly coloured but they are dropping and clearing. These are great conditions for spin and worm fishing in the deeper holes.

Southern Lakes Area:

Diamond Creek is open and normally holds good numbers of wary brown trout early in the season. Spin fishing in Diamond Lake can be very productive during spring.

Central Otago:

The Nevis River has recently received a small fresh and is fairly clear but boisterous. Anglers now require a backcountry licence to fish on the Nevis which can be obtained free of charge on the Otago Fish & Game website. To protect this sensitive fishery anglers must now release fish 400mm or greater in length. The Manuherikia River is clear and in great condition for fishing. Lake Dunstan has been fishing very well with good bags of browns and rainbows caught near the Clutha River delta. Anglers thinking about heading to Poolburn this weekend should keep a watch out for snow falls on Saturday. Falls Dam holds good numbers of small to medium sized trout and normally fishes well at the start of the season.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri River is slightly discoloured but fishable at the moment and should be in good order for spin fishing. The Lower Taieri is high and discoloured. The Loganburn is high and clear but check the weather forecast before into the high country.

Southwest Otago:

There has been recent rain at the Cairn and the Waipahi is rising. The upper reaches of the Pomahaka are also rising. Anglers are advised to check flows on the ORC website before heading South. The West Branch of the Tokomairiro River fished very well last season and would be well worth exploring. The upper reaches of the Waitahuna River have been in good order recently and would also be worth checking out.

Rangers will be active this weekend so please remember to carry your licence with you. Good luck - Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: Medium, slightly discoloured, dropping
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured, dropping
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured, rising
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured, rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, dropping
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, dropping
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

The fishing season for most brown trout rivers and lakes in Otago opens on the 1st of October which is next Thursday. Please check your regulation book (obtained with your licence) before you start fishing any waterway. At present most lakes are full and the majority of rivers are in good condition for the start of the new fishing season.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag and Waikouaiti rivers open on 1 October and are presently low and clear. These rivers traditionally hold some big trout in their lower reaches at the start of the season. Last year the Shag fished well in October with fish in the 5-6lb bracket caught near the main road. Anglers should try whitebait imitations such as Grey Ghost and Parsons Glory lure flies.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all full and the trout are hungry after winter. Good catches of rainbows have been reported Lake Dunstan and the Upper Clutha River. The salmon should start to run in southern end of Lake Hawea over the next few weeks.
Anglers should target late run rainbows and post-spawning browns congregating off the river mouths. Diamond Creek opens on 1 October and usually contains good numbers of brown trout early in the season.

Central Otago:

Most Central dams and reservoirs are holding plenty of water and are in good condition. Falls Dam, Loganburn and Poolburn Dam open on 1 October and traditionally fish well at the start of the season. The Manuherikia River is presently low and clear.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is slightly discoloured at the moment and should be in good order for spin fishing on opening day if we don’t get too much rain. Rutherfords and Blakelys Dams are closed for lambing until the first weekend in November. Hamiltons Dam, Mathias Dam and Coal Pit Dam are in good order. These shallow productive still waters often fish best early season before water temperatures heat up too much.

Southwest Otago:

Many South Otago rivers suffered from flooding over winter. They are now below normal flows for this time of the year and should be in good condition for the start of the season, as long as the present weather patterns hold. In the lower Clutha River good numbers of browns and the odd rainbow have been caught recently, with some of these fish full of whitebait. Smelt are starting to turn up in the river now. The Waipahi River is an early season favourite, with anglers often experiencing mayfly rises on overcast and cloudy days.

Rangers will be active on opening day and weekend so please remember to carry your licence with you. Good luck - Morgan Trotter

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly discoloured
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

There has been a lot of rain in the head waters of the Southern Alps, and the Southern Lakes are full and their rivers high. In Coastal and South Otago the weather has been more settled and most rivers are at normal levels.The main fishing season in brown trout rivers closes today, but there are still a lot of other angling opportunities to be had over winter. Please refer to angling guide before you fish any water.

North Otago Area:

The Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers remain open year round down-stream of the main road bridges. These rivers can yield some big sea-run trout during winter. Lakes Benmore, Waitaki and Aviemore are also open to angling all year and can produce some fantastic fishing during winter, especially when fishing for spawning runs off the mouths of the larger rivers such as the Ahuriri.

Southern Lakes Area:

The large lakes such as Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are open to angling all year. Again anglers fishing off river mouths can do particularly well when spawning trout begin to run. Most of the back country rivers do not close until the end of May. The fishing for fresh run fish (some of which can be very large) in back country rivers during May can be excellent.

Central Otago:

The best spot for winter fishing in Central Otago is possibly the Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan. Try trolling for schools of rainbows off the mouth of the Clutha. The Clutha River downstream of Luggate is open to fishing year round and can experience large runs of spawning fish during the winter months. Try tactics traditionally used on the Taupo Rivers during winter such as upstream nymph fishing with a heavy bomb and a glo-bug fly or lure fishing with a fast sinking line. Rapala type spinning lures also work well.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River downstream of Silverstream confluence remains open all year. Spin fishing with banana or black and gold tobies can produce some large sea-runs. Near town, Sullivans Dam and the Southern Reservoir are open and good places to go on a sunny afternoon to beat the winter fishing blues.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha River is open to fishing year round. On sunny afternoons the Clutha below Clydevale can experience some great mayfly rises. Spin fishing for sea-runs in the estuary area can also be productive.

Good luck and make the most of the winter season. Regular fishing reports will start again on the 24th of September.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, rising
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, some didymo
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

River conditions have been fairly stable over the last week. Fine weather and stable flows in April often result in some excellent mayfly hatches and great dry fly fishing. With cooler water temperatures experienced at this time of the year, insect activity often peaks during the warmest part of the day which is generally around mid-afternoon. The forecast for Saturday is mostly fine with some rain predicted for many areas on Sunday.

North Otago Area

The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui remain very low and clear. Expect the trout to be very spooky, so a careful approach and light line is required. Try small mayflies and emerger nymphs on any trout seen rising.

Southern Lakes Area

Concentrate your efforts off stream mouths for trout that will be preparing to run up stream and spawn. Backcountry rivers such as the Greenstone, Hunter and Makarora often experience runs of fresh fish in April and May. These lake resident fish can respond well to bead head nymphs and egg patterns such as glo-bugs. Diamond Creek should be holding good numbers of salmon.

Central Otago

Target the top of Lake Dunstan for large rainbows and browns that will be preparing to run up the Clutha to spawn. Try rapala type lures with a splash of red, or red and orange lure flies. High flows in the Hawea River may result in a fair bit of didymo discolouration in the main stem of the Upper Clutha.

Taieri Catchment

In the lower and middle reaches of the Taieri anglers should try the deep pools located close to spawning streams. Red and gold veltic spinners are advised to trigger an aggressive response from trout. The Upper Taieri is in good condition for dry fly fishing.

Southwest Otago Area

Salmon appear to be well distributed throughout the Lower Clutha between Millers Flat and Roxburgh. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are in good order for dry fly fishing. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

Salmon are running in the Lower Clutha, so try a silver spoon on 15-20lb line in the deeper pools The best time is early in the morning or late in the evening.

Good luck and make the most of what is left of the main fishing season.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, some didymo
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The main season is once again drawing to a close with only two weeks to go, but its not quite time to hang up the gear yet. End of season can often provide some of the most productive fishing, as trout congregate around stream mouths before heading up to winter spawning grounds. Just remember that if fish are getting slimy or going grey on the belly, they are past their best eating and should be carefully released to do their thing upriver.

North Otago Area

The Waitaki is running at about 350cumecs, this is slightly high but fishable. Rainbow trout in particular will be congregating immediately downstream of any spawning salmon to catch spilled eggs. Make sure you fish with something that contains red or orange. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all low and clear. Fishing has been tricky and the best success has been had in the lower reaches and estuaries.

Southern Lakes Area

All of the lakes and in-flowing rivers are looking good for this weekend. Fish in the lakes are moving out of the shallows as the water cools and can be found at stream mouths or around drop-off zones, silver or grey coloured spinners and flies work best in these areas.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan is medium and clear and fishing well. The Manuherikia and Nevis are normal and clear. Fish tend to move into the Clutha River above Lake Dunstan at this time of year, so be on the lookout for these. Remember, red is a good colour for lures and flies.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri River is low and clear in the Styx Basin and normal and clear from Maniototo downstream. Spin anglers are having good success at the moment, particularly in the gorge between Outram and Sutton and near any of the tributary stream mouths. Red and gold Veltics are the lure of choice.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka is normal and clear and continues to produce good fishing for both resident and migratory trout. The Lower Clutha is high and still fluctuating due to generation at Roxburgh. The areas around Beaumont and Millers flat are fishing well and there are still a few salmon being caught in the deep pools. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip:

All the rivers and lakes are looking good for the weekend. Veltics, spinners and flies with a bit of red or orange should do the trick.

Good luck and may many fish see the bottom of your net.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

With spurts of rain here and there for most waters over the last week, rivers and stream levels in coastal South Otago and Southland have been up and down a bit. These has made life a little tough for fly anglers, but spin and bait anglers that have targeted the right areas around tributary stream mouths have done pretty well. The weather for this Easter weekend is looking good but it will be cool.

North Otago Area

The salmon fishing season is now closed in the Waitaki River. Stream mouths and traditional salmon spawning areas are worth looking at over the next couple of weeks as brown trout congregate before spawning runs and rainbows hang around hoping for a feed on salmon eggs. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all clear and fishable. Sea run trout are trickling in and some good fish have been caught in the lower Waikouaiti.

Southern Lakes Area

Most of the salmon schooling at the mouth of the Dart and Rees rivers have moved upstream to spawn, but there are good numbers of brown trout hanging around all of the river mouths chasing the last of the landlocked whitebait. Silver or grey coloured spinners and flies work best and it helps if it is a dull day with a bit of wind.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan is high and clear and fishing well. The Manuherikia is low and clear and mayfly hatches are good around the middle of the day. The area of Lake Roxburgh around the Manuherikia confluence is still a good place to fish with red and gold spinners. The Nevis has received a bit of rain and is slightly high but will drop and clear quickly.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is high and slightly coloured, but if we get no more rain should be ok for the weekend. These conditions are ideal for targeting migratory trout that are hanging around in deep pools close to where spawning tributaries join the main river. Spinners with red and gold colouration are the best choice when targeting these areas or if you are fly fishing; down and across with a couple of bead head nymphs should work well.

Southwest Otago Area

The Lower Clutha is fluctuating a lot at present due to generation at Roxburgh and the river is choked with didymo, this can make spin fishing pretty frustrating at times. The Pomahaka is high and slightly discoloured but fishable from Kelso upstream. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

Lowland rivers may be high and slightly coloured but all the lakes should be good. Keep your options open by taking you fly and spinning gear.

Good luck and have a safe Easter.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, rising
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, rising
Pomahaka River: High rising
Waipahi River: High rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Rainfall has been light across most of Otago over the past week, with some moderate falls in the Southern Lakes area. Most rivers are at below average levels, clear and in good order for fishing. North-westerly conditions are predicted for many areas this weekend.

North Otago Area

The salmon fishing season is now closed in the Waitaki River. There is often some good trout fishing in the Hakataramea River in April (especially after a fresh) for rainbow trout that are targeting salmon eggs. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui remain clear and fishable. There are a few sea-runs in the estuaries of these rivers and night fishing with a large, dark feathered-lure on the edge of the deep guts can produce some big fish.

Southern Lakes Area

The controlled fishing period for the Greenstone River is finished, so all you need is a backcountry licence to go there. Fishing can be quite tricky in backcountry rivers at this stage of the season because most fish are well educated. Anglers can expect some fresh run fish from the Lakes to enter the rivers from mid-April onwards. Salmon and trout are presently congregating around the larger river mouths to feed on whitebait.

Central Otago

The Nevis and the Manuherikia Rivers remain in good condition for fishing. The rainbows in Lake Dunstan are in superb condition after a summer of feeding and there are normally some large trout caught at this time of the year. Fishing late in the evening over weed beds with woolly bugger lure flies (and strong line) is a good method of targeting large fish.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is clear and in good fishing condition after receiving a large fresh which blew out a lot of algae and aquatic plants. Trout are beginning to congregate in deep pools of the Taieri that are close to the smaller spawning streams. Over the next few months they will enter these streams to spawn.

Southwest Otago Area

The Clutha is in excellent order at the moment and the Pomakaha and Waipahi are clear and fishable. A few salmon have been reported around Ettrick and at the Roxburgh Dam Wall. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

At this time of the year, trout can begin to display aggressive spawning behaviour and lures with red are very effective, especially red and gold veltic spinners.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything mowing the lawns.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most waterways in Otago are in excellent order for fishing and the forecast for Saturday is looking quite good. Anglers are encouraged to get out and make the most of the good conditions this weekend.

North Otago Area

The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all clear and fishable. On calm afternoons anglers can expect some mayfly hatches now that water temperatures have dropped back. The salmon season in the Waitaki River closes at the end of this month. Lake Waitaki has been fishing well recently. Especially for boat anglers drifting and using rapala type lures.

Southern Lakes Area

Whitebait are starting to congregate around the mouths of the larger rivers such as the Matukituki and Dart. Landlocked salmon should also be holding off river mouths in preparations for their spawning run in April. Small silver lures and grey ghost flies are good whitebait imitations and effective on the salmon. Most backcountry rivers are in good order. The Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone closes at the end of this month, several beats are still available. To apply for beats visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Check out the Upper Clutha on clam evenings for caddis hatches. The Manuherikia and Nevis are low, clear and fishing well. There has been some very large trout caught in the Nevis recently and the Manuherikia has been producing some good evening rises above Galloway. A few salmon (around 5 kg) have been caught below the Roxburgh Dam and around Millars flat.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is clear and fishable throughout its length. Fly anglers can expect some good afternoon mayfly hatches on calm days and spin anglers should try deep pools in the lower river early in the morning for large sea-runs and salmon.

Southwest Otago Area

Anglers can expect good numbers of sea-runs in the Pomahaka system after the large fresh. Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight and length of any salmon you catch and then freeze the head. Contact Otago Fish & Game for collection.

This week's tip

Many anglers don’t bother to get out fishing later in the season when temperatures become cooler. This is a big mistake. Trout are in prime condition and cooler conditions often result in peak fish and insect activity from late morning to mid afternoon when water temperatures are highest.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything mowing the lawns.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium,clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

by Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago are back to normal or nearly normal levels after the heavy rain and snow last week. Fish should be hungry after the fresh. In most rivers and streams the water temperatures have dropped with the recent cooler nights, which should see fish feeding throughout the day. A southerly change is predicted for most areas this weekend but should start to clear by late Sunday evening.

North Otago Area

Flows in the Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti really benefited from heavy rain last week. Fish should be actively feeding after this fresh and there could be some good mayfly hatches on calm afternoons. Often spin fishing with small veltic lures produces good results as these rivers drop and clear

Southern Lakes Area

Whitebait are starting to run at many stream mouths in the southern lakes region. These attract rainbow trout and salmon. Silver or grey coloured spinners and flies early in the morning or late in the evening work best. Many salmon will start to run up the rivers shortly. The Controlled Fishery on the Greenstone is almost over with 12 days to go. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Most of the large dams are high, clear and the cicada activity has died down. The Manuherikia and Nevis are low but the water temperatures have dropped and they should be fishing well. Rainbows should begin to congregate around the Upper Clutha mouth at the top of Lake Dunstan soon. Often trout are in the peak of physical condition at this time of the year just prior to spawning. Good numbers of salmon have been caught below the Roxburgh Dam weighing between 4 and 9 Kg.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is discoloured throughout its length still, but spin fishing normally improves in the lower river at this time of year with the drop in water temperatures. Salmon often start to move through the gorge section at this time of the year

Southwest Otago Area

The Lower Clutha can produce some good afternoon mayfly hatches at this time of the year. Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight, length, and freeze the head of any salmon you catch. Contact Otago Fish & Game for collection. The Pomahaka is still high and discoloured and anglers can expect a run of sea trout and salmon when it drops and clears.

This Weeks Tip

Spin fishing the length of the Clutha with large silver veltics or tobies can be very effective. If you are heading for the Southern Lake area the whitebait are on the move around the river mouths.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium,dropping
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low. discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, rising, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High,clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: High clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Southerly weather patterns and heavy rain have discoloured a lot of rivers and made fishing conditions cold and difficult. The good news is that the forecast for this weekend is looking better, and anglers can expect some excellent fishing for sea trout and salmon as rivers drop and clear.

North Otago Area

The Shag has dropped back and is clearing and fishable, but the Kakanui remains high and discoloured. Quite a few salmon have been caught in the Waitaki River in recent weeks, which is presently high and running at about 500 cummecs.

Southern Lakes Area

Salmon are beginning to congregate around river mouths in preparation for spawning. Fishing in the deep water off the major rivers such as the Dart, Matukituki and Hunter should be quite productive over the next few weeks. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Most of the large dams and high, clear and fishable. Water temperatures in the smaller central Otago irrigation dams have dropped back, so there should be more fish activity during the middle of the day. The Manuherikia is at a good level for spin and fly fishing.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is discoloured throughout its length, but anglers can expect some great spin fishing in the lower reaches when it clears. Rutherfords, Blakelys and Coal Pit dam are a good bet for anglers searching for some clear water.

Southwest Otago Area

Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight, length, and freeze the head of any salmon you catch. Contact Fish & Game for collection. The Pomahaka is at its first flood warning, anglers can expect a run of sea trout and salmon when it drops and clears. The Teviot Fishing Competition is on this Sunday. This river is full of trout and a great place to encourage new anglers. Registration is at the Bridge Huts from 8.30am.

This week's tip

Spin fishing in clearing waters with black and gold tobies and rapalas can be very effective. Often large trout are more aggressive when the water is slightly coloured and will attack a lure that would otherwise scare them.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, discoloured
Shag River: Medium, clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, flood warning
Waipahi River: High, rising, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, rising
Hawea River: High, didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago received a fresh on Monday and have now dropped down to fishable levels. Some rain is forecasted for many areas this Friday, but this is predicted to clear quickly leaving good conditions for fishing on Saturday. Salmon are still being caught in the Otago Harbour so if you don’t want to go far this could be an option.

North Otago Area

The North Otago area has had a big fresh and rivers are still high. There will be good fishing for sea run trout and salmon as they drop and clear.

Southern Lakes Area

The back country rivers are in great order. There is still some great dry fly fishing to be had on warm days so don’t put your cicada imitations away just yet. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website. Lakes are all clear and salmon are starting to congregate around the river mouths so this should suit the spin anglers.

Central Otago

Loganburn, which is very low, Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn would all be worth exploring. Fishing in the mornings and evenings can be very productive on these lakes due to the good sedge and midge hatches, although with lower water temperature fish will be feeding throughout the day.

Taieri Catchment

The lower Taieri is low but there are reports of salmon being landed above Outram. The upper Taieri is fishing well and lets not forget Lake Mahinerangi, the lake is high and has good numbers of trout and perch. It fishes well this time of year with all angling methods.

Southwest Otago Area

Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system for a study on their origins. It would be greatly appreciated if any anglers landing a salmon could record the weight, length, freeze the head and contact Fish & Game for collection. Large sea-run trout and salmon are currently migrating through the lower Clutha and Pomahaka catchments. The Teviot Fishing Competition is on the 15th of March and registration is at the bridge huts from 8.30am.

This Weeks Tip

Fly anglers, make the most of what is left of the terrestrial insect activity this month by using blow fly, beetle, cicada and grass hopper imitations and for the spin fisherman who are targeting the salmon, a silver spoon or zed spinner can be effective.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch at home.

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: High, dropping, clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, dropping, clearing
Waipahi River: Low and dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, slightly coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago remain high and coloured from the heavy rain received a few days ago. More rain is forecast for many places this weekend. Although these conditions can be difficult for fly fishing; slightly discoloured water can be very productive for spin fishing.

North Otago Area

The North Otago area received more rain than other regions and all the rivers are still high and discoloured. The Waitaki River is at about 450 cubic meters and rising. Fishing in the estuarine areas as the waters clear may produce some big sea runs. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

[See also Save Trotter's Creek]

Southern Lakes Area

The large lakes are all clear and fishable. Most high country rivers are in good order after receiving a fresh, but anglers are advising to check the weather forecast before heading in to the backcountry. Despite difficult fishing conditions some well condition trout were landed at the Hawea competition last weekend. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The Manuherikia and Lindis Rivers are dropping, clearing and in good order for exploring with small veltic spinners on a light thread line. Poolburn and Manorburn have both been fishing well for anglers using thread line equipment.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very discoloured in the lower reaches but fishable in the upper section. Hopefully the recent fresh will have flushed out the algal throughout the river and anglers will be able to enjoy some good fishing as the river drops and clears. Anglers can expect a run of sea trout as the river drops.

Southwest Otago Area

The large flush of discoloured water in the Pomahaka system should have started a run of sea trout and a few salmon as well. There appears to be salmon distributed throughout the lower Clutha River at the moment. Some large salmon (around 20lb) have been reported at the Roxburgh Dam Wall and a few caught (around 12lb mark) in the Clydevale and Millars Flat areas over the last few weeks.

This week's tip

Triple your chances by fishing with silver zed spinners and 12-20 lb line in the lower Clutha and Taieri systems. During February and March this technique can produce salmon, sea-run trout and large resident trout as well.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, discoloured
Shag River: High, discoloured
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, some didymo
Hawea River: High, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, slightly discoloured
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Almost all rivers in Otago are low, clear and below their average flow levels. A southerly front is expected over the next few days bringing rain, showers and a rise in river levels to most places.The annual Otago Harbour Salmon Fishing Competition is on this weekend. Tickets are available from most sporting good stores.

North Otago Area

The North Otago streams all remain very low. Hopefully the predicted southerly front will bring a much needed fresh to these waters. The Waitaki River is flowing at about 350 cummecs and there have been a few salmon caught recently. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

[See also Save Trotter's Creek]

Southern Lakes Area

The annual Lake Hawea Fishing Competition is on this weekend. Entry forms are available form the Hawea Hotel. Local ranger, Bill Wells is predicting some good catches of salmon which have been in great condition this season. The Upper Clutha is low, clear and in great order for nymph fishing during the day and sedge fishing at night. The fishing in Lake Dunstan has been a bit difficult during the heat of the day; better results can be expected late in the evenings. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Cicada fishing on the high country dams over the past few weeks has been very sporadic due to the unsettled weather conditions. If you arrive at your destination and the conditions are too cold for cicadas, try small caddis nymphs instead. Some sedge and mayfly rises can be expected on calm evenings in the Manuherikia which is low and clear.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri remains very low and clear right throughout its length, making fish spotting easy. In the middle section of the river trout can be found cursing the deeper pools and targeting willows grubs. If no fish can be seen rising, try fishing the well oxygenated riffles. A few salmon are starting to run past Outram.

Southwest Otago Area

Some large sea-runs have been caught in the Clutha which is in great order for spin and fly fishing. Two pods of sea-run trout have moved into the Pomahaka system; however a fresh is required in this river to really get them running. Rainfall predicted for this weekend could result in a fresh. Fishing for sea-runs and salmon after the fresh early nest week may be very productive.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Very low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most rivers throughout Otago remain at low to normal levels and are clear and fishable. The forecast for most areas apart from South Otago is showers and then fine for the weekend. This should result in some excellent fishing conditions on Saturday and Sunday. The salmon fishing in the Dunedin harbour has been quite good recently. The average size of salmon caught has been around 5kg.

North Otago Area

The Shag and Kakanui River catchments have received light rainfall but more is required. Hopefully rain over the next few days will provide a much needed fresh in these rivers. Trout are feeding on willow grubs and are concentrated in the pools where water temperatures are cooler. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

Southern Lakes Area

All the large lakes are clear and fishable, and the backcountry rivers are in excellent order. A heavy rain warning is forecast for the Western Ranges, north of the Haast River. The Upper Clutha is in great order and the sedge fishing has been excellent with lots of well condition fish caught. Nymphing the runs and riffles with large bead head nymphs that imitate toe-bitter larvae can also produce some great fishing at this time of the year. There are good numbers of fish in each beat of the Controlled Fishery on the Greenstone. To apply for a beat, visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The cicada fishing on the high country dams has been average due to the cooler weather conditions lately. The forecast for Central this weekend is good and this should get the cicada action going. Loganburn remains low, but Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn are all high and clear.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very low and clear right throughout its length. Some anglers have been making the most of the low levels to access deep pools in the Taieri Gorge that could not normally be reached. Some very large trout have been pulled out of these pools. Salmon have started to run and there have been some caught above Outram.

Southwest Otago Area

Salmon and sea-run trout should be migrating through the Clutha and Pomahaka systems. Any deep holding pools would be well worth exploring first thing in the morning or late afternoon with small silver salmon spoons, tobies or z-spinners. The Mataura and Pomahaka Rivers have been fishing well on over cast days lately.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The weather and water conditions are looking great for cicada fishing on our larger lakes this Waitangi weekend. Most rivers throughout Otago are at very low to normal levels and clear.

North Otago Area

The streams of North Otago are all running out of water and require rainfall. Anglers are advised to get out early in the morning when temperatures are at their lowest or target the estuarine areas where there is more water. The Shag and Kakanui Rivers are at, or near their minimum flow levels which restrict abstraction. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

Southern Lakes Area

The backcountry rivers are in great order and with the terrestrial insect activity heating up, there should be some excellent dry fly fishing this weekend. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website. Boat anglers seeking shelter from north-westerly winds should try The Neck on Lake Hawea, or the lower part of the Cromwell gorge on Lake Dunstan. Diamond and Reids Lake often fish very well with large dry flies at this time of the year.

Central Otago

The predicted hot weather should get the cicadas going and dry fly fishing on the high country reservoirs should really start to fire up. North-westerly winds are predicted later in the weekend but these may help to blow the insects on to the water. Loganburn (which is low), Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn would all be worth exploring. Fly anglers should carry a range of cicada imitations and also some beetle type flies such as green humpys.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very low throughout its length. Lake Mahinerangi is high and would be a great place to take the kids out fishing. This lake has lots of perch which hit small lures and worms very well, and are great fun to start children fishing on.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are low and anglers should target the deeper pools with cooler water and the fast well oxygenated riffles. The Lower Clutha is in outstanding order and primed for some great fishing this weekend. There is some excellent water below Clydevale which is easily accessible. Salmon should be starting to run soon, so don’t forget to take your salmon rod.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Low, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The amount of rainfall received over the last week has been limited and most rivers throughout Otago are at low or very low levels. The waterways in North Otago are particularly low. A southerly change with showers is predicted for most areas this weekend. Hopefully the North Otago catchments will receive some much needed rain.

North Otago Area

The Shag and Waianakarua Rivers are very low and still suffering from a toxic algal bloom. People are advised not to let children or dogs swim in these waters. The large flushing flows that were put down the Waitaki River were successful in pushing a lot of didymo out of the system. This could lead to some good salmon fishing over the next few weeks.

Southern Lakes Area

To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone River visit the Otago Fish & Game website. Some of the backcountry rivers were high at the start of the week but are back down to normal levels now. Trolling anglers using leadlines on Lake Wakatipu have been doing very well recently. Some experienced anglers have been averaging 6 fish a day per boat.

Central Otago

The trout have started feeding on cicadas! Loganburn which is quite low was fishing well early in the week before the cold snap. Anglers can expect some great fly fishing when the weather heats up again. On the irrigation dams, trout have been targeting adult damsel flies. Rutherfords Dam has a bad algal bloom.

Taieri Catchment

The Upper Taieri is low but slightly coloured. There has been a lot of trout rising on Falls Dam (which is high) on calm days. Although the average size of fish on this water is relatively small, the scenery is outstanding. The Taieri below Hyde is very low and water temperatures have been very hot during the day. Lake Mahinerangi is very high. It would be worth exploring the flooded edges for cruising trout and perch.

Southwest Otago Area

The Upper Pomahaka with should fish well with cicada imitations over the next few weeks. The Waipahi is low and clear but quite weedy. The Catlins Rivers are low and clear. Sparsely tied spent spinner flies and willow grubs are a good bet for fly fishing on small streams are the moment. If these don’t work, try the largest cicada imitation you can find.

World Wetlands Day

The World Wetlands Day celebration is on at the Sinclair Wetlands on the Lower Taieri Plains this Sunday at 1.00pm. There will be guest speakers, tree plantings and a free afternoon tea; so bring the family along.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, slightly coloures
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, rising
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The North Otago Rivers and the Taieri River are very low and clear. Most other streams throughout Otago are at low or normal levels. Sunshine and northwest winds are forecast for North and Central Otago over the next few days, while some patchy showers are predicted for the Southern Lakes and South Otago.

North Otago Area

Unfortunately the Shag and Waianakarua Rivers are suffering from a toxic algal bloom and people are advised not to let children or dogs swim in these waters. The cause of the bloom is unknown but it seems to occur during prolonged low flow periods. The Waitaki River has been very high. Hopefully these high flows will have flushed some of the didymo out. Lake Waitaki normally fishes well at this time of the year and is probably the best option in North Otago

Southern Lakes Area

Trout have been targeting Manuka (green) Beetles on Lake Wakatipu and many of the backcountry rivers. The Controlled Fishery on the Upper Greenstone River starts on the 1st of February. For more information visit the Otago Fish & Game website. In Lake Hawea trout have been making good use of the high levels and cruising around the shoreline feeding on bullies.

Central Otago

Poolburn and Manorburn are fishing well and trout have been feeding on Manuka Beetles. They should start feasting on the cicadas soon. If you are unable to rise a trout, change to a type 3 sinking line and a green woolly bugger fly which imitates damsel fly larvae. The Lindis River is holding more water this season than it has for a long time. It could be worth investigating this river upstream of Ardgour.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri at Outram is extremely low and has been flat lined for several days. With the rest of the river so low the estuarine area could well be holding more fish than normal. Spin fishing in the late evening can produce some large sea-runs at this time of the year. The upper river is also low and very weedy in places.

Southwest Otago Area

The Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are at ideal levels for fly fishing. In the larger pools trout are locked on to willow grubs. Large sea-run trout should start migrating through the Lower Clutha and Pomahaka system soon. The Catlins Rivers are all low and clear.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Extremely low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly coloured
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Otago is experiencing typical summer conditions and most rivers are low and clear. Some showers are forecast for the majority of the region this weekend.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Kakanui and Maerewhenua Rivers are all very low and clear. These waterways would really benefit from some rain. Further north the Waitaki dams are spilling and the Waitaki River is high and rising, making it very difficult to fish. The Rangitata is clearing after a fresh and has been salmon fishing very well. Most of the Waitaki Lakes are very high and there are some great opportunities to catch trout fossicking around flooded edges. The Hakataramea is in good order and has been fishing well.

Southern Lakes Area

The large lakes are all high and clear and have been fishing well when weather conditions allow. Early in the morning and late in the evening are the best times to beat the north-west winds. Most back country rivers received a fresh on the 10th and are in good order at the moment. Rain is expected in the western ranges over the weekend. Lake Hayes is experiencing another bad algal bloom, with reports of fish kills.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan continues to produce large, well conditioned fish. The Manorburn Dam has also been fishing well. A few cicadas are starting to get active and it shouldn’t be long before fish start targeting them on the high country dams. Green beetle imitations are fishing well at the moment.

Taieri Catchment

Most of the irrigation dams in the Maniototo are quite weedy around their edges. Using a bubble on a spinning rod is a good method of getting a fly (or a worm) out to the open water. Rutherfords Dam is experiencing an algal bloom. The Lower Hamiltons Dam is slightly coloured. The lower Taieri is very low and weedy in places. The upper river around the Styx basin is in good order for fly fishing.

Southwest Otago Area

Most rivers are low and clear. Willow grubs are starting to appear and all fly anglers should carry some imitations with them. Fish these imitations as close to the surface film as possible. Anglers should not be deterred if there are a few showers over the weekend. During summer a low-moderate amount of rain will often freshen rivers and improve the fishing. A 26lb salmon was caught in the lower Clutha over the holiday break.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Most rivers throughout South, Central and Coastal Otago are experiencing typical summer conditions and they are normal to very low and clear. Many backcountry rivers in the Southern Lakes have been high and are expected to rise again with the arrival of a southerly front. Scattered showers are predicted for much of Otago over the next few days.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Waikouaiti, Kakanui and Waianakarua are all very low and clear. These rivers would fish best early in the morning or late in the evening when water temperatures are cool. If you are fishing small streams during the heat of the day try targeting the deep pools or fast bubbly riffles, where water temperatures are colder and oxygen levels higher.

Southern Lakes Area

A heavy rain warning has been issued for Otago headwaters and anglers should double check the forecast before heading into the back country. On the lakes the northwest winds have been frustrating angling efforts. Trout are starting to target green beetles near over hanging vegetation. When weather conditions allow boat anglers should try dry fly fishing near lakeside vegetation or make good use of fish finders and target fish lying in deep water. Jigging, which involves lowering a lure from a stationary boat and jerking it back in can be very successful when fishing in deep water.

Central Otago

The holiday crowds are starting to thin out on Lake Dunstan which has received a lot of fishing pressure. Despite the pressure some very good bags have caught by anglers fishing from the shoreline in the evenings. Spin anglers should try light lines and rapala type lures on the trout that have become well educated. Fly anglers should use snail and damsel fly patterns. The Manorburn Dam has been producing some well conditioned fish recently.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is low and clear along its length. Higher day time temperatures have increased terrestrial insect activity and fly anglers should be trying blow fly and bee imitations. Cicadas should start to appear in the upper catchment soon. Some anglers have been quite successful fishing damsel fly imitations on the Maniototo irrigation dams.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are in great condition for fly fishing. The lower Clutha is high and slightly coloured but has been spin fishing well, especially near the estuary. Some very large perch averaging 4lb have been caught around Kaitangata. Perch taste excellent and are great for getting young people into fishing.

Please remember to carry your fishing licence with you. There have been about 11 people caught fishing without licences since Christmas.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

This report concentrates on “Holiday Hotspots”, areas that should fish well over the Christmas and New Year holiday break. Although there are often lots of people on the waterways during this period, by concentrating your efforts on the most productive locations at the right time of the day you can still catch lots of fish. The following spots are known to produce good fishing over the holidays and are well worth exploring, especially at day break and late in the evening.

North Otago Area

Probably one of the most productive fisheries in the country is the top of Lake Benmore near the Ahuriri River delta. Large numbers of trout cruise over the weed beds near the river mouth. Fly anglers should try midge patterns early in the morning and then move to damsel fly larvae nymphs as the day warms up. Trolling anglers should be on the water very early and try rapala type lures or harling with green woolly buggers. Sedge fishing on the Waitaki River around Kurow can also be very productive at this time of the year.

Southern Lakes Area

The first anglers in the morning to reach the river mouths of the major tributaries generally find large numbers of trout cursing around the drop off. As the day progresses the trout move into the deeper water and trolling anglers will need lots of leadline out to get down to them. One of the most under utilised fishing methods in the Southern Lakes is worm fishing off the river mouths. When the trout go down deep during the day this can be a relaxing way to catch them. Fly anglers can expect some great angling for cursing trout around the edges of Diamond Lake [which is west of Lake Wanaka]. Deans Bank should also produce some great dry fly fishing on calm evenings. The Kawarau River outlet [from Lake Wakitipu] can experience some great sedge fishing after dark. Be warned there are some very large trout in this area and you should use heavy line to have any chance of landing them.

Central Otago

The shoreline of Lake Dunstan and Lake Onlsow are very productive fisheries that can accommodate a lot of angling pressure. Fishing a weighted nymph under an indicator over the weed beds can be deadly, especially when there is some wave action to give the nymph movement. The same technique with a worm bubble can also produce some great fishing. The Upper Clutha should spin fish well especially with rapala and mepps lures.

Taieri Catchment

Try the Taieri late in the evening with brown beetle and sedge fly imitations. In the lower river porina grubs and worms work well during the day. In the reservoirs such as Blakelys and Coalpit try green damsel fly nymphs with a fast retrieve.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha is the place to go. Try spin fishing with articulated trout, mepps and soft rubber lures. There is a lot of great access point along the Millennium Track above Beaumont.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low. clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, some colour
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers have just received a much needed fresh and there is some showers predicted for many areas over the next few days. Provided there is not too much rain most waterways should be in good condition for fishing over the weekend. Anglers should make the most of the conditions and get out on their favourite waters before the Christmas holiday crowds arrive.

North Otago area

Some showers are predicted for Saturday morning. These should clear by the afternoon. The Shag is presently coming down after a slight flush which will have provided some cool water and this should increase fish activity. The Waitaki Lakes have been fishing well recently. Casting a damsel fly nymph over lake shore weed beds can be very effective.

Southern Lakes area

The mountain forecast is looking quite good for Saturday and this should be a great weekend to get into the backcountry. The terrestrial insect activity is starting to heat up and fly anglers have a good chance of experiencing some excellent dry fly action with green beetle and blowfly imitations. Anglers targeting the landlocked salmon in the lakes should get up early and use bright lures.

Central Otago

Now is a good time to get out fishing on Lake Dunstan. Trout are often noticeably harder to catch on this lake after the Christmas holidays. Some very large brown trout around the 9lb mark have been caught in the head of this lake recently. Harling with green woolly buggers with red bead heads can be deadly at this time of the year. Reasonable numbers of land locked salmon have been caught near the Lake Dunstan dam wall. The Manuherikia should fish well as it drops and clears after receiving a good fresh. If the water is still slightly coloured try spin fishing or large Mrs Simpson or cockabully imitation flies. Often over looked, the lower Fraser River has been fishing well in recent seasons and is worth investigating.

Taieri catchment

The upper Taieri received a flush and is now in great shape for fly fishing. Hopefully this flush will rejuvenate water levels in the oxbow lakes. The Coal Pit Dam has been fishing particularly well recently. The lower Taieri has been high but it is dropping quickly and should fish well for all methods.

Southwest Otago area

The forecast for Saturday is quite good. The Pomahaka has been quite high and coloured but is dropping and clearing quickly. The Clutha is slightly coloured and should spin fish very well as it clears, especially with small silver lures.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium/high, dropping, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium/high, dropping, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Thunder plumps and scattered showers brought much needed rain to some streams on Tuesday. However, most waterways in North and Central Otago are still low and in need of more rain. Heavy rain is forecast for the Southern Lakes Mountain areas today which may raise river levels quickly. Most South Otago rivers are in good condition for fishing. Sunshine is forecast for North and Central Otago this Saturday. Some showers can be expected in South Otago and the Southern Lakes.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Waikouaiti and Kakanui received a much needed small fresh. This should improve the fishing over the next few days. Fly anglers should try small horn cased caddis nymphs during the day, and brown beetles and caddis flies late in the evenings.

Southern Lakes Area

Most tributary rivers are high and boisterous. Hopefully they will drop and be fishable by the weekend. The large lakes, Wakatipu, Hawea and Wanaka are all in good condition for trolling. Lake Hawea continues to produce a lot of well conditioned salmon. Deep water trolling with bright lures and jigging are good methods of targeting these fish. As December progresses, daytime temperatures and terrestrial insect activity should increase and improve the dry fly fishing on high country rivers. The green beetles should be making an appearance soon, and anglers are advised to carry some imitations with them.

Central Otago

The upper Clutha is still quite high and difficult to fish. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan is almost always a safe bet. The Nevis is excellent order and the water temperature at a good level for insect and fish activity.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri is in great order for fly fishing. If the day is hot try targeting the cooler deep water areas. The lower Taieri should fish well as it resides from a small fresh. This is a great time to get out spin fishing. Trout will make the most of the slightly coloured water and target bullies and smelt.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha remains high. The Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are clear and fishable. Water temperatures in these rivers have been quite high during the day lately. This may result in increased trout activity in the mornings and evenings when temperatures cool off. On hot days trout will often move into deep water or the well oxygenated riffle areas. Often a small gold bead head nymph and an indicator can be deadly when fishing in the bubbly water. The lower reach of the Waiwera River and the west branch of the Tokomairiro are holding reasonable numbers of medium sized trout at the moment. In the interest of conservation, anglers are advised to limit their bag in these smaller waters.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium/high, dropping
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, some colour in the Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Heavy rain in the western mountain ranges has discoloured a lot of high country rivers and the Southern Lakes are now approaching flood alert levels. Most South Otago streams are residing after high flows. Many Central and North Otago streams are low and in serious need of rain. The forecast over the next few days is generally good and most high country and southern waters should be fishing well by the weekend.

North Otago Area

The smaller rivers such as the Shag, Waikouaiti and Kakanui are all very low and clear. In the Waitaki system, the Ahuriri is discolouring the top of Lake Benmore. Lake Waitaki is still clear and in good condition for fishing. There have been some good trout caught on caddis emergers in the Waitaki around Kurow recently. Salmon are starting to run in the Rangitata River, with about 12 caught lately.

Southern Lakes Area

Most of the Wanaka, Hawea and Wakatipu tributary rivers are now falling after receiving very heavy rain in their catchments. They should settle down and be fishable by Saturday. The large lakes are very high. Sometimes trout will cruise around recently flooded lake edges and present good fishing opportunities. Lure fishing at river mouths near the discoloured water can also be effective. Lake Hawea continues to produce big salmon, up to 1.4kg. Jigging in deep water with bright lures can be a good way to target these fish.

Central Otago

The upper Clutha is high and difficult to fish at the moment. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan continues to fish well, but the Kawarau Arm has been quite discoloured. The Manuherikia is at a good level for fly fishing and would be well worth exploring on Saturday.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri should fish well as it resides after a bit of a fresh. The lower Taieri has been very low recently. Anglers are advised to use light line and lures. The small Rapala lures can be particularly deadly on light line.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha is very high and hard to fish at the moment. The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are settling down and should fish well this weekend. November is a great month for fishing in the Pomahaka above Kelso. Warmer temperatures increase insect activity and there is often good may fly hatches during the day and caddis rises in the evening.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.
Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General situation

Most waters throughout Otago are in good condition for fishing at the moment. The high country rivers have settled down and the coastal waters are clear and fishable. Rain is forecast for many areas on Saturday and this may discolour some waters. It is always a good idea to check the Regional Council website for up to the minute information on river flows before you embark on a fishing trip.

North Otago Coast

The Kakanui is very low and the Shag is quite low as well. During low conditions these waters often fish best in the evenings. Be on the lookout for caddis and brown beetle rises. The Waikouaiti River around Orbells Crossing is holding good numbers of trout up to 6lbs. White bait and cockabully imitations work well in this area. Worm fishing in the deeper pools can also be deadly.

Southern Lakes Area

Lake Hawea fished very well during the competition last week. Some of the more experienced anglers reported the best fishing that had ever seen, with some very well conditioned rainbows and big salmon caught. The average size of the salmon was 1.2kg and 46cm which is big for landlocked fish. There could be some really big salmon caught by the end of the season. Most of the high country rivers received a fresh on the 17th. They are now residing and should fish well, especially with large gold bead head nymphs. Try black bead heads if the trout are picky.

Central Otago

The Shotover has been very high and the Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan discoloured, but the Clutha Arm is in good order and continues to fish well. The caddis hatches on the upper Clutha should be starting to go well on calm evening. The Nevis River is settling down and the Manuherikia is holding good numbers of trout. There is often a caddis rise in the lower reaches of this river during calm spring evenings.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri has dropped and should be in good order. In the lower reaches of the Taieri spin anglers should try silver lures that imitate smelt and whitebait. Fly anglers can expect some good caddis and brown beetle rises on calm evenings around Outram over the next few weeks.

Southwest Otago

The Lower Clutha continues to fish well with small silver lures. The Pomahaka has dropped down to a fishable level. The Waipahi is in good order. The Catlins and Owaka Rivers are often over looked by anglers during November. This is a mistake as the tidal reaches of these waters can produce large sea-trout at this time of the year.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most high country waters and the North Otago streams are clear and fishable, while some of the larger rivers in South Otago are still residing after high flows. Warmer daytime temperatures should increase insect activity over the next week which will improve dry fly fishing. The weather is looking good for most places this Saturday, by then rivers right throughout Otago should be in good condition for fishing.
North Otago Coast: The Kakanui and Shag Rivers are low and clear. Often trout which are hard to catch during the day in these rivers become more active in the evenings and will rise to dry flies. Sedge and brown beetle imitations can be very productive at this time of the year.

Southern Lakes Area

The Hawea fishing competition is on this Friday and Saturday. Anglers are advised to get out on the water early before the north wester wind blows. Trolling with deep lines off the Dingle Burn and Timaru Creek mouths can produce some good fish. Green and some of the fluorescent tasmanian devil and cobra lures often work well. If this hardware fails to produce, try a green woolly bugger fly on a lead-line. Often the key to catching fish when trolling is getting the line down deep enough. If you are not getting any bites slow or stop the boat to allow the lures to sink deep, before putting some revs on to encourage a strike.

Central Otago

The shoreline of Lake Dunstan has been fishing very well with anglers catching good numbers of browns. The Kawarau arm has been produced quite a few salmon. The Manuherikia is in good order for fly fishing and the Manorburn Dam continues to produce some well conditions rainbows.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri flow has been quite high and fluctuating daily, possibly because of snow melt. It is beginning to drop and clear now. The lower river is in good order. Calm evenings at this time of the year are a great opportunity for fly anglers to catch a big one after dark using brown beetle imitations. These beetles are the adult of the grass-grub and hatch on warm evenings. They are clumsy fliers and tend to hit the water with a splash. They are a big source of protein and attract the attention of large trout, which can be fooled into taking a dry fly.

Southwest Otago

The Pomahaka is still quite discoloured; hopefully it will clear by the weekend. The Waipahi is a bit high but fishable and should be in good order this Saturday. The lower Clutha River continues to fish well for spin angler using small silver lures.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium -high, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly coloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured, dropping
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly coloured, dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Low, rising, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Low-medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The recent cold southerly front brought significant snowfalls to much of Otago. This is unusual for November and the snow is not expected to last long. There are warmer temperatures forecast for this weekend and this may result in snow melt colouring some rivers.

North Otago Coast

The Kakanui and Shag Rivers are low and clear. These waters should be a safe bet for anglers searching for clear water this weekend. The Hakataramea and Maerewhenua Rivers are in good order and carrying good stock of rainbow trout, and lots of anglers. A fly box has been found on the Maerewhenua, could the owner please contact Fish & Game.

Southern Lakes Area

Anglers considering heading into the high country this weekend are advised to check snow levels first. Some rivers may become discoloured as the snow banks melt. Lake fishing with large woolly buggers on fast sinking lines near river mouths can produce some great fishing at this time of the year.

Central Otago

The Manorburn Dam has been producing well conditioned rainbows recently. The upper Clutha and Hawea Rivers are at good levels for spin and fly fishing. Very large bead-head hares ear nymphs that imitate toe-biter larvae can fish really well in these rivers. Dunstan Creek and the Manuherikia River could experience some snow melt over the next few days.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri is presently at a nearly normal level; however snow melt may colour the river over the next few days. The irrigation dams throughout the Maniototo should be in good order this weekend. The Coalpit Dam has been fishing particularly well. The lower Taieri is in great order for spin and worm anglers. Southwest Otago: Despite high winds and rain, some anglers managed to catch good bags in the Waipahi Gold medal competition last weekend. Unfortunately the Waipahi and Pomahaka are now high and rising. The lower Clutha has been fishing extremely well over the past week. One angler reported hooking 30 fish over a two hour period. There appears to be quite a lot of smelt in the river and anglers using small silver lures have been having the best results. Often flows in the Clutha drop in the afternoon allowing anglers to access the best fishing spots. Another angler has been caught fishing without a licence in South Otago, so please make sure you have a licence before you go fishing. Good luck and remember you won't catch anything with a dry line.

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

Most waterways are in good condition for fishing at the moment. However, a southerly blast is expected to spread across much of Otago over the next few days, which will make fishing conditions challenging. The weather is predicted to clear on Sunday.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti rivers are all in good order for fishing. Try whitebait imitations in their lower reaches. The Pleasant River estuary has been producing the odd large sea run trout recently.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all clear and fishing well when weather conditions allow. Timaru Creek is open downstream from the road bridge and this area normally holds good number of rainbows in October. With the lake level high there should be some good fishing in the delta area.

Central Otago:

The Fraser and Manuherikia Rivers have been fishing very well recently. The Nevis is also in good order but be careful when driving above Commissioners Creek, as there are some slips on the road. Lake Dunstan continues to fish exceptionally well, especially in the Clutha delta area. Good numbers of large well conditioned brown and rainbow have been caught recently. Harling with a green woolly bugger fly off the Clutha River mouth can be very productive at this time of the year.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is slightly discoloured at the moment and in good condition for spin fishing. The oxbows in the Upper River have been fishing very well with some trout up to 5lb caught recently. In the Lower River angler should try worms and porina grubs in the deep holes and spin fishing with small silver bait fish imitations.

Southwest Otago:

Most South Otago rivers such as the Pomahaka and Waipahi are at medium levels but slightly coloured. They could easily become unfishable depending on how much rain is received over the next few days. The Lower Clutha River has been fishing very well recently. There is a lot of whitebait in the river around Kaitangata and the smelt have started to turn up in good numbers as well. Experienced anglers often bait fish with smelt which can be irresistible to large sea run trout.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

River and lake conditions are compiled by Fish and Game Otago with information from the Otago Regional Council received at 9.00am.

General Situation:

Most rivers and lakes in North and Central Otago are in fairly good condition for the start of the season. Unfortunately a southerly front is predicated to sweep across much of Otago around midday on Saturday which may make fishing conditions challenging. Anglers are advised to take spin fishing equipment with them this weekend in case the weather is too windy or the water too discoloured for fly fishing.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag and Waikouaiti rivers have received a small fresh and are now slightly coloured but they are dropping and clearing. These are great conditions for spin and worm fishing in the deeper holes.

Southern Lakes Area:

Diamond Creek is open and normally holds good numbers of wary brown trout early in the season. Spin fishing in Diamond Lake can be very productive during spring.

Central Otago:

The Nevis River has recently received a small fresh and is fairly clear but boisterous. Anglers now require a backcountry licence to fish on the Nevis which can be obtained free of charge on the Otago Fish & Game website. To protect this sensitive fishery anglers must now release fish 400mm or greater in length. The Manuherikia River is clear and in great condition for fishing. Lake Dunstan has been fishing very well with good bags of browns and rainbows caught near the Clutha River delta. Anglers thinking about heading to Poolburn this weekend should keep a watch out for snow falls on Saturday. Falls Dam holds good numbers of small to medium sized trout and normally fishes well at the start of the season.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri River is slightly discoloured but fishable at the moment and should be in good order for spin fishing. The Lower Taieri is high and discoloured. The Loganburn is high and clear but check the weather forecast before into the high country.

Southwest Otago:

There has been recent rain at the Cairn and the Waipahi is rising. The upper reaches of the Pomahaka are also rising. Anglers are advised to check flows on the ORC website before heading South. The West Branch of the Tokomairiro River fished very well last season and would be well worth exploring. The upper reaches of the Waitahuna River have been in good order recently and would also be worth checking out.

Rangers will be active this weekend so please remember to carry your licence with you. Good luck - Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: Medium, slightly discoloured, dropping
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured, dropping
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured, rising
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured, rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, dropping
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, dropping
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

The fishing season for most brown trout rivers and lakes in Otago opens on the 1st of October which is next Thursday. Please check your regulation book (obtained with your licence) before you start fishing any waterway. At present most lakes are full and the majority of rivers are in good condition for the start of the new fishing season.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag and Waikouaiti rivers open on 1 October and are presently low and clear. These rivers traditionally hold some big trout in their lower reaches at the start of the season. Last year the Shag fished well in October with fish in the 5-6lb bracket caught near the main road. Anglers should try whitebait imitations such as Grey Ghost and Parsons Glory lure flies.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all full and the trout are hungry after winter. Good catches of rainbows have been reported Lake Dunstan and the Upper Clutha River. The salmon should start to run in southern end of Lake Hawea over the next few weeks.
Anglers should target late run rainbows and post-spawning browns congregating off the river mouths. Diamond Creek opens on 1 October and usually contains good numbers of brown trout early in the season.

Central Otago:

Most Central dams and reservoirs are holding plenty of water and are in good condition. Falls Dam, Loganburn and Poolburn Dam open on 1 October and traditionally fish well at the start of the season. The Manuherikia River is presently low and clear.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is slightly discoloured at the moment and should be in good order for spin fishing on opening day if we don’t get too much rain. Rutherfords and Blakelys Dams are closed for lambing until the first weekend in November. Hamiltons Dam, Mathias Dam and Coal Pit Dam are in good order. These shallow productive still waters often fish best early season before water temperatures heat up too much.

Southwest Otago:

Many South Otago rivers suffered from flooding over winter. They are now below normal flows for this time of the year and should be in good condition for the start of the season, as long as the present weather patterns hold. In the lower Clutha River good numbers of browns and the odd rainbow have been caught recently, with some of these fish full of whitebait. Smelt are starting to turn up in the river now. The Waipahi River is an early season favourite, with anglers often experiencing mayfly rises on overcast and cloudy days.

Rangers will be active on opening day and weekend so please remember to carry your licence with you. Good luck - Morgan Trotter

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly discoloured
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

There has been a lot of rain in the head waters of the Southern Alps, and the Southern Lakes are full and their rivers high. In Coastal and South Otago the weather has been more settled and most rivers are at normal levels.The main fishing season in brown trout rivers closes today, but there are still a lot of other angling opportunities to be had over winter. Please refer to angling guide before you fish any water.

North Otago Area:

The Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers remain open year round down-stream of the main road bridges. These rivers can yield some big sea-run trout during winter. Lakes Benmore, Waitaki and Aviemore are also open to angling all year and can produce some fantastic fishing during winter, especially when fishing for spawning runs off the mouths of the larger rivers such as the Ahuriri.

Southern Lakes Area:

The large lakes such as Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are open to angling all year. Again anglers fishing off river mouths can do particularly well when spawning trout begin to run. Most of the back country rivers do not close until the end of May. The fishing for fresh run fish (some of which can be very large) in back country rivers during May can be excellent.

Central Otago:

The best spot for winter fishing in Central Otago is possibly the Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan. Try trolling for schools of rainbows off the mouth of the Clutha. The Clutha River downstream of Luggate is open to fishing year round and can experience large runs of spawning fish during the winter months. Try tactics traditionally used on the Taupo Rivers during winter such as upstream nymph fishing with a heavy bomb and a glo-bug fly or lure fishing with a fast sinking line. Rapala type spinning lures also work well.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River downstream of Silverstream confluence remains open all year. Spin fishing with banana or black and gold tobies can produce some large sea-runs. Near town, Sullivans Dam and the Southern Reservoir are open and good places to go on a sunny afternoon to beat the winter fishing blues.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha River is open to fishing year round. On sunny afternoons the Clutha below Clydevale can experience some great mayfly rises. Spin fishing for sea-runs in the estuary area can also be productive.

Good luck and make the most of the winter season. Regular fishing reports will start again on the 24th of September.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, rising
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, some didymo
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

River conditions have been fairly stable over the last week. Fine weather and stable flows in April often result in some excellent mayfly hatches and great dry fly fishing. With cooler water temperatures experienced at this time of the year, insect activity often peaks during the warmest part of the day which is generally around mid-afternoon. The forecast for Saturday is mostly fine with some rain predicted for many areas on Sunday.

North Otago Area

The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui remain very low and clear. Expect the trout to be very spooky, so a careful approach and light line is required. Try small mayflies and emerger nymphs on any trout seen rising.

Southern Lakes Area

Concentrate your efforts off stream mouths for trout that will be preparing to run up stream and spawn. Backcountry rivers such as the Greenstone, Hunter and Makarora often experience runs of fresh fish in April and May. These lake resident fish can respond well to bead head nymphs and egg patterns such as glo-bugs. Diamond Creek should be holding good numbers of salmon.

Central Otago

Target the top of Lake Dunstan for large rainbows and browns that will be preparing to run up the Clutha to spawn. Try rapala type lures with a splash of red, or red and orange lure flies. High flows in the Hawea River may result in a fair bit of didymo discolouration in the main stem of the Upper Clutha.

Taieri Catchment

In the lower and middle reaches of the Taieri anglers should try the deep pools located close to spawning streams. Red and gold veltic spinners are advised to trigger an aggressive response from trout. The Upper Taieri is in good condition for dry fly fishing.

Southwest Otago Area

Salmon appear to be well distributed throughout the Lower Clutha between Millers Flat and Roxburgh. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are in good order for dry fly fishing. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

Salmon are running in the Lower Clutha, so try a silver spoon on 15-20lb line in the deeper pools The best time is early in the morning or late in the evening.

Good luck and make the most of what is left of the main fishing season.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, some didymo
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The main season is once again drawing to a close with only two weeks to go, but its not quite time to hang up the gear yet. End of season can often provide some of the most productive fishing, as trout congregate around stream mouths before heading up to winter spawning grounds. Just remember that if fish are getting slimy or going grey on the belly, they are past their best eating and should be carefully released to do their thing upriver.

North Otago Area

The Waitaki is running at about 350cumecs, this is slightly high but fishable. Rainbow trout in particular will be congregating immediately downstream of any spawning salmon to catch spilled eggs. Make sure you fish with something that contains red or orange. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all low and clear. Fishing has been tricky and the best success has been had in the lower reaches and estuaries.

Southern Lakes Area

All of the lakes and in-flowing rivers are looking good for this weekend. Fish in the lakes are moving out of the shallows as the water cools and can be found at stream mouths or around drop-off zones, silver or grey coloured spinners and flies work best in these areas.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan is medium and clear and fishing well. The Manuherikia and Nevis are normal and clear. Fish tend to move into the Clutha River above Lake Dunstan at this time of year, so be on the lookout for these. Remember, red is a good colour for lures and flies.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri River is low and clear in the Styx Basin and normal and clear from Maniototo downstream. Spin anglers are having good success at the moment, particularly in the gorge between Outram and Sutton and near any of the tributary stream mouths. Red and gold Veltics are the lure of choice.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka is normal and clear and continues to produce good fishing for both resident and migratory trout. The Lower Clutha is high and still fluctuating due to generation at Roxburgh. The areas around Beaumont and Millers flat are fishing well and there are still a few salmon being caught in the deep pools. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip:

All the rivers and lakes are looking good for the weekend. Veltics, spinners and flies with a bit of red or orange should do the trick.

Good luck and may many fish see the bottom of your net.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

With spurts of rain here and there for most waters over the last week, rivers and stream levels in coastal South Otago and Southland have been up and down a bit. These has made life a little tough for fly anglers, but spin and bait anglers that have targeted the right areas around tributary stream mouths have done pretty well. The weather for this Easter weekend is looking good but it will be cool.

North Otago Area

The salmon fishing season is now closed in the Waitaki River. Stream mouths and traditional salmon spawning areas are worth looking at over the next couple of weeks as brown trout congregate before spawning runs and rainbows hang around hoping for a feed on salmon eggs. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all clear and fishable. Sea run trout are trickling in and some good fish have been caught in the lower Waikouaiti.

Southern Lakes Area

Most of the salmon schooling at the mouth of the Dart and Rees rivers have moved upstream to spawn, but there are good numbers of brown trout hanging around all of the river mouths chasing the last of the landlocked whitebait. Silver or grey coloured spinners and flies work best and it helps if it is a dull day with a bit of wind.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan is high and clear and fishing well. The Manuherikia is low and clear and mayfly hatches are good around the middle of the day. The area of Lake Roxburgh around the Manuherikia confluence is still a good place to fish with red and gold spinners. The Nevis has received a bit of rain and is slightly high but will drop and clear quickly.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is high and slightly coloured, but if we get no more rain should be ok for the weekend. These conditions are ideal for targeting migratory trout that are hanging around in deep pools close to where spawning tributaries join the main river. Spinners with red and gold colouration are the best choice when targeting these areas or if you are fly fishing; down and across with a couple of bead head nymphs should work well.

Southwest Otago Area

The Lower Clutha is fluctuating a lot at present due to generation at Roxburgh and the river is choked with didymo, this can make spin fishing pretty frustrating at times. The Pomahaka is high and slightly discoloured but fishable from Kelso upstream. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

Lowland rivers may be high and slightly coloured but all the lakes should be good. Keep your options open by taking you fly and spinning gear.

Good luck and have a safe Easter.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, rising
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, rising
Pomahaka River: High rising
Waipahi River: High rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Rainfall has been light across most of Otago over the past week, with some moderate falls in the Southern Lakes area. Most rivers are at below average levels, clear and in good order for fishing. North-westerly conditions are predicted for many areas this weekend.

North Otago Area

The salmon fishing season is now closed in the Waitaki River. There is often some good trout fishing in the Hakataramea River in April (especially after a fresh) for rainbow trout that are targeting salmon eggs. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui remain clear and fishable. There are a few sea-runs in the estuaries of these rivers and night fishing with a large, dark feathered-lure on the edge of the deep guts can produce some big fish.

Southern Lakes Area

The controlled fishing period for the Greenstone River is finished, so all you need is a backcountry licence to go there. Fishing can be quite tricky in backcountry rivers at this stage of the season because most fish are well educated. Anglers can expect some fresh run fish from the Lakes to enter the rivers from mid-April onwards. Salmon and trout are presently congregating around the larger river mouths to feed on whitebait.

Central Otago

The Nevis and the Manuherikia Rivers remain in good condition for fishing. The rainbows in Lake Dunstan are in superb condition after a summer of feeding and there are normally some large trout caught at this time of the year. Fishing late in the evening over weed beds with woolly bugger lure flies (and strong line) is a good method of targeting large fish.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is clear and in good fishing condition after receiving a large fresh which blew out a lot of algae and aquatic plants. Trout are beginning to congregate in deep pools of the Taieri that are close to the smaller spawning streams. Over the next few months they will enter these streams to spawn.

Southwest Otago Area

The Clutha is in excellent order at the moment and the Pomakaha and Waipahi are clear and fishable. A few salmon have been reported around Ettrick and at the Roxburgh Dam Wall. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

At this time of the year, trout can begin to display aggressive spawning behaviour and lures with red are very effective, especially red and gold veltic spinners.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything mowing the lawns.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most waterways in Otago are in excellent order for fishing and the forecast for Saturday is looking quite good. Anglers are encouraged to get out and make the most of the good conditions this weekend.

North Otago Area

The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all clear and fishable. On calm afternoons anglers can expect some mayfly hatches now that water temperatures have dropped back. The salmon season in the Waitaki River closes at the end of this month. Lake Waitaki has been fishing well recently. Especially for boat anglers drifting and using rapala type lures.

Southern Lakes Area

Whitebait are starting to congregate around the mouths of the larger rivers such as the Matukituki and Dart. Landlocked salmon should also be holding off river mouths in preparations for their spawning run in April. Small silver lures and grey ghost flies are good whitebait imitations and effective on the salmon. Most backcountry rivers are in good order. The Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone closes at the end of this month, several beats are still available. To apply for beats visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Check out the Upper Clutha on clam evenings for caddis hatches. The Manuherikia and Nevis are low, clear and fishing well. There has been some very large trout caught in the Nevis recently and the Manuherikia has been producing some good evening rises above Galloway. A few salmon (around 5 kg) have been caught below the Roxburgh Dam and around Millars flat.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is clear and fishable throughout its length. Fly anglers can expect some good afternoon mayfly hatches on calm days and spin anglers should try deep pools in the lower river early in the morning for large sea-runs and salmon.

Southwest Otago Area

Anglers can expect good numbers of sea-runs in the Pomahaka system after the large fresh. Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight and length of any salmon you catch and then freeze the head. Contact Otago Fish & Game for collection.

This week's tip

Many anglers don’t bother to get out fishing later in the season when temperatures become cooler. This is a big mistake. Trout are in prime condition and cooler conditions often result in peak fish and insect activity from late morning to mid afternoon when water temperatures are highest.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything mowing the lawns.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium,clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

by Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago are back to normal or nearly normal levels after the heavy rain and snow last week. Fish should be hungry after the fresh. In most rivers and streams the water temperatures have dropped with the recent cooler nights, which should see fish feeding throughout the day. A southerly change is predicted for most areas this weekend but should start to clear by late Sunday evening.

North Otago Area

Flows in the Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti really benefited from heavy rain last week. Fish should be actively feeding after this fresh and there could be some good mayfly hatches on calm afternoons. Often spin fishing with small veltic lures produces good results as these rivers drop and clear

Southern Lakes Area

Whitebait are starting to run at many stream mouths in the southern lakes region. These attract rainbow trout and salmon. Silver or grey coloured spinners and flies early in the morning or late in the evening work best. Many salmon will start to run up the rivers shortly. The Controlled Fishery on the Greenstone is almost over with 12 days to go. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Most of the large dams are high, clear and the cicada activity has died down. The Manuherikia and Nevis are low but the water temperatures have dropped and they should be fishing well. Rainbows should begin to congregate around the Upper Clutha mouth at the top of Lake Dunstan soon. Often trout are in the peak of physical condition at this time of the year just prior to spawning. Good numbers of salmon have been caught below the Roxburgh Dam weighing between 4 and 9 Kg.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is discoloured throughout its length still, but spin fishing normally improves in the lower river at this time of year with the drop in water temperatures. Salmon often start to move through the gorge section at this time of the year

Southwest Otago Area

The Lower Clutha can produce some good afternoon mayfly hatches at this time of the year. Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight, length, and freeze the head of any salmon you catch. Contact Otago Fish & Game for collection. The Pomahaka is still high and discoloured and anglers can expect a run of sea trout and salmon when it drops and clears.

This Weeks Tip

Spin fishing the length of the Clutha with large silver veltics or tobies can be very effective. If you are heading for the Southern Lake area the whitebait are on the move around the river mouths.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium,dropping
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low. discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, rising, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High,clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: High clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Southerly weather patterns and heavy rain have discoloured a lot of rivers and made fishing conditions cold and difficult. The good news is that the forecast for this weekend is looking better, and anglers can expect some excellent fishing for sea trout and salmon as rivers drop and clear.

North Otago Area

The Shag has dropped back and is clearing and fishable, but the Kakanui remains high and discoloured. Quite a few salmon have been caught in the Waitaki River in recent weeks, which is presently high and running at about 500 cummecs.

Southern Lakes Area

Salmon are beginning to congregate around river mouths in preparation for spawning. Fishing in the deep water off the major rivers such as the Dart, Matukituki and Hunter should be quite productive over the next few weeks. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Most of the large dams and high, clear and fishable. Water temperatures in the smaller central Otago irrigation dams have dropped back, so there should be more fish activity during the middle of the day. The Manuherikia is at a good level for spin and fly fishing.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is discoloured throughout its length, but anglers can expect some great spin fishing in the lower reaches when it clears. Rutherfords, Blakelys and Coal Pit dam are a good bet for anglers searching for some clear water.

Southwest Otago Area

Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight, length, and freeze the head of any salmon you catch. Contact Fish & Game for collection. The Pomahaka is at its first flood warning, anglers can expect a run of sea trout and salmon when it drops and clears. The Teviot Fishing Competition is on this Sunday. This river is full of trout and a great place to encourage new anglers. Registration is at the Bridge Huts from 8.30am.

This week's tip

Spin fishing in clearing waters with black and gold tobies and rapalas can be very effective. Often large trout are more aggressive when the water is slightly coloured and will attack a lure that would otherwise scare them.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, discoloured
Shag River: Medium, clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, flood warning
Waipahi River: High, rising, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, rising
Hawea River: High, didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago received a fresh on Monday and have now dropped down to fishable levels. Some rain is forecasted for many areas this Friday, but this is predicted to clear quickly leaving good conditions for fishing on Saturday. Salmon are still being caught in the Otago Harbour so if you don’t want to go far this could be an option.

North Otago Area

The North Otago area has had a big fresh and rivers are still high. There will be good fishing for sea run trout and salmon as they drop and clear.

Southern Lakes Area

The back country rivers are in great order. There is still some great dry fly fishing to be had on warm days so don’t put your cicada imitations away just yet. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website. Lakes are all clear and salmon are starting to congregate around the river mouths so this should suit the spin anglers.

Central Otago

Loganburn, which is very low, Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn would all be worth exploring. Fishing in the mornings and evenings can be very productive on these lakes due to the good sedge and midge hatches, although with lower water temperature fish will be feeding throughout the day.

Taieri Catchment

The lower Taieri is low but there are reports of salmon being landed above Outram. The upper Taieri is fishing well and lets not forget Lake Mahinerangi, the lake is high and has good numbers of trout and perch. It fishes well this time of year with all angling methods.

Southwest Otago Area

Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system for a study on their origins. It would be greatly appreciated if any anglers landing a salmon could record the weight, length, freeze the head and contact Fish & Game for collection. Large sea-run trout and salmon are currently migrating through the lower Clutha and Pomahaka catchments. The Teviot Fishing Competition is on the 15th of March and registration is at the bridge huts from 8.30am.

This Weeks Tip

Fly anglers, make the most of what is left of the terrestrial insect activity this month by using blow fly, beetle, cicada and grass hopper imitations and for the spin fisherman who are targeting the salmon, a silver spoon or zed spinner can be effective.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch at home.

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: High, dropping, clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, dropping, clearing
Waipahi River: Low and dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, slightly coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago remain high and coloured from the heavy rain received a few days ago. More rain is forecast for many places this weekend. Although these conditions can be difficult for fly fishing; slightly discoloured water can be very productive for spin fishing.

North Otago Area

The North Otago area received more rain than other regions and all the rivers are still high and discoloured. The Waitaki River is at about 450 cubic meters and rising. Fishing in the estuarine areas as the waters clear may produce some big sea runs. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

[See also Save Trotter's Creek]

Southern Lakes Area

The large lakes are all clear and fishable. Most high country rivers are in good order after receiving a fresh, but anglers are advising to check the weather forecast before heading in to the backcountry. Despite difficult fishing conditions some well condition trout were landed at the Hawea competition last weekend. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The Manuherikia and Lindis Rivers are dropping, clearing and in good order for exploring with small veltic spinners on a light thread line. Poolburn and Manorburn have both been fishing well for anglers using thread line equipment.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very discoloured in the lower reaches but fishable in the upper section. Hopefully the recent fresh will have flushed out the algal throughout the river and anglers will be able to enjoy some good fishing as the river drops and clears. Anglers can expect a run of sea trout as the river drops.

Southwest Otago Area

The large flush of discoloured water in the Pomahaka system should have started a run of sea trout and a few salmon as well. There appears to be salmon distributed throughout the lower Clutha River at the moment. Some large salmon (around 20lb) have been reported at the Roxburgh Dam Wall and a few caught (around 12lb mark) in the Clydevale and Millars Flat areas over the last few weeks.

This week's tip

Triple your chances by fishing with silver zed spinners and 12-20 lb line in the lower Clutha and Taieri systems. During February and March this technique can produce salmon, sea-run trout and large resident trout as well.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, discoloured
Shag River: High, discoloured
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, some didymo
Hawea River: High, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, slightly discoloured
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Almost all rivers in Otago are low, clear and below their average flow levels. A southerly front is expected over the next few days bringing rain, showers and a rise in river levels to most places.The annual Otago Harbour Salmon Fishing Competition is on this weekend. Tickets are available from most sporting good stores.

North Otago Area

The North Otago streams all remain very low. Hopefully the predicted southerly front will bring a much needed fresh to these waters. The Waitaki River is flowing at about 350 cummecs and there have been a few salmon caught recently. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

[See also Save Trotter's Creek]

Southern Lakes Area

The annual Lake Hawea Fishing Competition is on this weekend. Entry forms are available form the Hawea Hotel. Local ranger, Bill Wells is predicting some good catches of salmon which have been in great condition this season. The Upper Clutha is low, clear and in great order for nymph fishing during the day and sedge fishing at night. The fishing in Lake Dunstan has been a bit difficult during the heat of the day; better results can be expected late in the evenings. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Cicada fishing on the high country dams over the past few weeks has been very sporadic due to the unsettled weather conditions. If you arrive at your destination and the conditions are too cold for cicadas, try small caddis nymphs instead. Some sedge and mayfly rises can be expected on calm evenings in the Manuherikia which is low and clear.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri remains very low and clear right throughout its length, making fish spotting easy. In the middle section of the river trout can be found cursing the deeper pools and targeting willows grubs. If no fish can be seen rising, try fishing the well oxygenated riffles. A few salmon are starting to run past Outram.

Southwest Otago Area

Some large sea-runs have been caught in the Clutha which is in great order for spin and fly fishing. Two pods of sea-run trout have moved into the Pomahaka system; however a fresh is required in this river to really get them running. Rainfall predicted for this weekend could result in a fresh. Fishing for sea-runs and salmon after the fresh early nest week may be very productive.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Very low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most rivers throughout Otago remain at low to normal levels and are clear and fishable. The forecast for most areas apart from South Otago is showers and then fine for the weekend. This should result in some excellent fishing conditions on Saturday and Sunday. The salmon fishing in the Dunedin harbour has been quite good recently. The average size of salmon caught has been around 5kg.

North Otago Area

The Shag and Kakanui River catchments have received light rainfall but more is required. Hopefully rain over the next few days will provide a much needed fresh in these rivers. Trout are feeding on willow grubs and are concentrated in the pools where water temperatures are cooler. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

Southern Lakes Area

All the large lakes are clear and fishable, and the backcountry rivers are in excellent order. A heavy rain warning is forecast for the Western Ranges, north of the Haast River. The Upper Clutha is in great order and the sedge fishing has been excellent with lots of well condition fish caught. Nymphing the runs and riffles with large bead head nymphs that imitate toe-bitter larvae can also produce some great fishing at this time of the year. There are good numbers of fish in each beat of the Controlled Fishery on the Greenstone. To apply for a beat, visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The cicada fishing on the high country dams has been average due to the cooler weather conditions lately. The forecast for Central this weekend is good and this should get the cicada action going. Loganburn remains low, but Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn are all high and clear.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very low and clear right throughout its length. Some anglers have been making the most of the low levels to access deep pools in the Taieri Gorge that could not normally be reached. Some very large trout have been pulled out of these pools. Salmon have started to run and there have been some caught above Outram.

Southwest Otago Area

Salmon and sea-run trout should be migrating through the Clutha and Pomahaka systems. Any deep holding pools would be well worth exploring first thing in the morning or late afternoon with small silver salmon spoons, tobies or z-spinners. The Mataura and Pomahaka Rivers have been fishing well on over cast days lately.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The weather and water conditions are looking great for cicada fishing on our larger lakes this Waitangi weekend. Most rivers throughout Otago are at very low to normal levels and clear.

North Otago Area

The streams of North Otago are all running out of water and require rainfall. Anglers are advised to get out early in the morning when temperatures are at their lowest or target the estuarine areas where there is more water. The Shag and Kakanui Rivers are at, or near their minimum flow levels which restrict abstraction. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

Southern Lakes Area

The backcountry rivers are in great order and with the terrestrial insect activity heating up, there should be some excellent dry fly fishing this weekend. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website. Boat anglers seeking shelter from north-westerly winds should try The Neck on Lake Hawea, or the lower part of the Cromwell gorge on Lake Dunstan. Diamond and Reids Lake often fish very well with large dry flies at this time of the year.

Central Otago

The predicted hot weather should get the cicadas going and dry fly fishing on the high country reservoirs should really start to fire up. North-westerly winds are predicted later in the weekend but these may help to blow the insects on to the water. Loganburn (which is low), Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn would all be worth exploring. Fly anglers should carry a range of cicada imitations and also some beetle type flies such as green humpys.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very low throughout its length. Lake Mahinerangi is high and would be a great place to take the kids out fishing. This lake has lots of perch which hit small lures and worms very well, and are great fun to start children fishing on.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are low and anglers should target the deeper pools with cooler water and the fast well oxygenated riffles. The Lower Clutha is in outstanding order and primed for some great fishing this weekend. There is some excellent water below Clydevale which is easily accessible. Salmon should be starting to run soon, so don’t forget to take your salmon rod.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Low, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The amount of rainfall received over the last week has been limited and most rivers throughout Otago are at low or very low levels. The waterways in North Otago are particularly low. A southerly change with showers is predicted for most areas this weekend. Hopefully the North Otago catchments will receive some much needed rain.

North Otago Area

The Shag and Waianakarua Rivers are very low and still suffering from a toxic algal bloom. People are advised not to let children or dogs swim in these waters. The large flushing flows that were put down the Waitaki River were successful in pushing a lot of didymo out of the system. This could lead to some good salmon fishing over the next few weeks.

Southern Lakes Area

To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone River visit the Otago Fish & Game website. Some of the backcountry rivers were high at the start of the week but are back down to normal levels now. Trolling anglers using leadlines on Lake Wakatipu have been doing very well recently. Some experienced anglers have been averaging 6 fish a day per boat.

Central Otago

The trout have started feeding on cicadas! Loganburn which is quite low was fishing well early in the week before the cold snap. Anglers can expect some great fly fishing when the weather heats up again. On the irrigation dams, trout have been targeting adult damsel flies. Rutherfords Dam has a bad algal bloom.

Taieri Catchment

The Upper Taieri is low but slightly coloured. There has been a lot of trout rising on Falls Dam (which is high) on calm days. Although the average size of fish on this water is relatively small, the scenery is outstanding. The Taieri below Hyde is very low and water temperatures have been very hot during the day. Lake Mahinerangi is very high. It would be worth exploring the flooded edges for cruising trout and perch.

Southwest Otago Area

The Upper Pomahaka with should fish well with cicada imitations over the next few weeks. The Waipahi is low and clear but quite weedy. The Catlins Rivers are low and clear. Sparsely tied spent spinner flies and willow grubs are a good bet for fly fishing on small streams are the moment. If these don’t work, try the largest cicada imitation you can find.

World Wetlands Day

The World Wetlands Day celebration is on at the Sinclair Wetlands on the Lower Taieri Plains this Sunday at 1.00pm. There will be guest speakers, tree plantings and a free afternoon tea; so bring the family along.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, slightly coloures
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, rising
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The North Otago Rivers and the Taieri River are very low and clear. Most other streams throughout Otago are at low or normal levels. Sunshine and northwest winds are forecast for North and Central Otago over the next few days, while some patchy showers are predicted for the Southern Lakes and South Otago.

North Otago Area

Unfortunately the Shag and Waianakarua Rivers are suffering from a toxic algal bloom and people are advised not to let children or dogs swim in these waters. The cause of the bloom is unknown but it seems to occur during prolonged low flow periods. The Waitaki River has been very high. Hopefully these high flows will have flushed some of the didymo out. Lake Waitaki normally fishes well at this time of the year and is probably the best option in North Otago

Southern Lakes Area

Trout have been targeting Manuka (green) Beetles on Lake Wakatipu and many of the backcountry rivers. The Controlled Fishery on the Upper Greenstone River starts on the 1st of February. For more information visit the Otago Fish & Game website. In Lake Hawea trout have been making good use of the high levels and cruising around the shoreline feeding on bullies.

Central Otago

Poolburn and Manorburn are fishing well and trout have been feeding on Manuka Beetles. They should start feasting on the cicadas soon. If you are unable to rise a trout, change to a type 3 sinking line and a green woolly bugger fly which imitates damsel fly larvae. The Lindis River is holding more water this season than it has for a long time. It could be worth investigating this river upstream of Ardgour.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri at Outram is extremely low and has been flat lined for several days. With the rest of the river so low the estuarine area could well be holding more fish than normal. Spin fishing in the late evening can produce some large sea-runs at this time of the year. The upper river is also low and very weedy in places.

Southwest Otago Area

The Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are at ideal levels for fly fishing. In the larger pools trout are locked on to willow grubs. Large sea-run trout should start migrating through the Lower Clutha and Pomahaka system soon. The Catlins Rivers are all low and clear.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Extremely low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly coloured
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Otago is experiencing typical summer conditions and most rivers are low and clear. Some showers are forecast for the majority of the region this weekend.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Kakanui and Maerewhenua Rivers are all very low and clear. These waterways would really benefit from some rain. Further north the Waitaki dams are spilling and the Waitaki River is high and rising, making it very difficult to fish. The Rangitata is clearing after a fresh and has been salmon fishing very well. Most of the Waitaki Lakes are very high and there are some great opportunities to catch trout fossicking around flooded edges. The Hakataramea is in good order and has been fishing well.

Southern Lakes Area

The large lakes are all high and clear and have been fishing well when weather conditions allow. Early in the morning and late in the evening are the best times to beat the north-west winds. Most back country rivers received a fresh on the 10th and are in good order at the moment. Rain is expected in the western ranges over the weekend. Lake Hayes is experiencing another bad algal bloom, with reports of fish kills.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan continues to produce large, well conditioned fish. The Manorburn Dam has also been fishing well. A few cicadas are starting to get active and it shouldn’t be long before fish start targeting them on the high country dams. Green beetle imitations are fishing well at the moment.

Taieri Catchment

Most of the irrigation dams in the Maniototo are quite weedy around their edges. Using a bubble on a spinning rod is a good method of getting a fly (or a worm) out to the open water. Rutherfords Dam is experiencing an algal bloom. The Lower Hamiltons Dam is slightly coloured. The lower Taieri is very low and weedy in places. The upper river around the Styx basin is in good order for fly fishing.

Southwest Otago Area

Most rivers are low and clear. Willow grubs are starting to appear and all fly anglers should carry some imitations with them. Fish these imitations as close to the surface film as possible. Anglers should not be deterred if there are a few showers over the weekend. During summer a low-moderate amount of rain will often freshen rivers and improve the fishing. A 26lb salmon was caught in the lower Clutha over the holiday break.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Most rivers throughout South, Central and Coastal Otago are experiencing typical summer conditions and they are normal to very low and clear. Many backcountry rivers in the Southern Lakes have been high and are expected to rise again with the arrival of a southerly front. Scattered showers are predicted for much of Otago over the next few days.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Waikouaiti, Kakanui and Waianakarua are all very low and clear. These rivers would fish best early in the morning or late in the evening when water temperatures are cool. If you are fishing small streams during the heat of the day try targeting the deep pools or fast bubbly riffles, where water temperatures are colder and oxygen levels higher.

Southern Lakes Area

A heavy rain warning has been issued for Otago headwaters and anglers should double check the forecast before heading into the back country. On the lakes the northwest winds have been frustrating angling efforts. Trout are starting to target green beetles near over hanging vegetation. When weather conditions allow boat anglers should try dry fly fishing near lakeside vegetation or make good use of fish finders and target fish lying in deep water. Jigging, which involves lowering a lure from a stationary boat and jerking it back in can be very successful when fishing in deep water.

Central Otago

The holiday crowds are starting to thin out on Lake Dunstan which has received a lot of fishing pressure. Despite the pressure some very good bags have caught by anglers fishing from the shoreline in the evenings. Spin anglers should try light lines and rapala type lures on the trout that have become well educated. Fly anglers should use snail and damsel fly patterns. The Manorburn Dam has been producing some well conditioned fish recently.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is low and clear along its length. Higher day time temperatures have increased terrestrial insect activity and fly anglers should be trying blow fly and bee imitations. Cicadas should start to appear in the upper catchment soon. Some anglers have been quite successful fishing damsel fly imitations on the Maniototo irrigation dams.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are in great condition for fly fishing. The lower Clutha is high and slightly coloured but has been spin fishing well, especially near the estuary. Some very large perch averaging 4lb have been caught around Kaitangata. Perch taste excellent and are great for getting young people into fishing.

Please remember to carry your fishing licence with you. There have been about 11 people caught fishing without licences since Christmas.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

This report concentrates on “Holiday Hotspots”, areas that should fish well over the Christmas and New Year holiday break. Although there are often lots of people on the waterways during this period, by concentrating your efforts on the most productive locations at the right time of the day you can still catch lots of fish. The following spots are known to produce good fishing over the holidays and are well worth exploring, especially at day break and late in the evening.

North Otago Area

Probably one of the most productive fisheries in the country is the top of Lake Benmore near the Ahuriri River delta. Large numbers of trout cruise over the weed beds near the river mouth. Fly anglers should try midge patterns early in the morning and then move to damsel fly larvae nymphs as the day warms up. Trolling anglers should be on the water very early and try rapala type lures or harling with green woolly buggers. Sedge fishing on the Waitaki River around Kurow can also be very productive at this time of the year.

Southern Lakes Area

The first anglers in the morning to reach the river mouths of the major tributaries generally find large numbers of trout cursing around the drop off. As the day progresses the trout move into the deeper water and trolling anglers will need lots of leadline out to get down to them. One of the most under utilised fishing methods in the Southern Lakes is worm fishing off the river mouths. When the trout go down deep during the day this can be a relaxing way to catch them. Fly anglers can expect some great angling for cursing trout around the edges of Diamond Lake [which is west of Lake Wanaka]. Deans Bank should also produce some great dry fly fishing on calm evenings. The Kawarau River outlet [from Lake Wakitipu] can experience some great sedge fishing after dark. Be warned there are some very large trout in this area and you should use heavy line to have any chance of landing them.

Central Otago

The shoreline of Lake Dunstan and Lake Onlsow are very productive fisheries that can accommodate a lot of angling pressure. Fishing a weighted nymph under an indicator over the weed beds can be deadly, especially when there is some wave action to give the nymph movement. The same technique with a worm bubble can also produce some great fishing. The Upper Clutha should spin fish well especially with rapala and mepps lures.

Taieri Catchment

Try the Taieri late in the evening with brown beetle and sedge fly imitations. In the lower river porina grubs and worms work well during the day. In the reservoirs such as Blakelys and Coalpit try green damsel fly nymphs with a fast retrieve.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha is the place to go. Try spin fishing with articulated trout, mepps and soft rubber lures. There is a lot of great access point along the Millennium Track above Beaumont.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low. clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, some colour
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers have just received a much needed fresh and there is some showers predicted for many areas over the next few days. Provided there is not too much rain most waterways should be in good condition for fishing over the weekend. Anglers should make the most of the conditions and get out on their favourite waters before the Christmas holiday crowds arrive.

North Otago area

Some showers are predicted for Saturday morning. These should clear by the afternoon. The Shag is presently coming down after a slight flush which will have provided some cool water and this should increase fish activity. The Waitaki Lakes have been fishing well recently. Casting a damsel fly nymph over lake shore weed beds can be very effective.

Southern Lakes area

The mountain forecast is looking quite good for Saturday and this should be a great weekend to get into the backcountry. The terrestrial insect activity is starting to heat up and fly anglers have a good chance of experiencing some excellent dry fly action with green beetle and blowfly imitations. Anglers targeting the landlocked salmon in the lakes should get up early and use bright lures.

Central Otago

Now is a good time to get out fishing on Lake Dunstan. Trout are often noticeably harder to catch on this lake after the Christmas holidays. Some very large brown trout around the 9lb mark have been caught in the head of this lake recently. Harling with green woolly buggers with red bead heads can be deadly at this time of the year. Reasonable numbers of land locked salmon have been caught near the Lake Dunstan dam wall. The Manuherikia should fish well as it drops and clears after receiving a good fresh. If the water is still slightly coloured try spin fishing or large Mrs Simpson or cockabully imitation flies. Often over looked, the lower Fraser River has been fishing well in recent seasons and is worth investigating.

Taieri catchment

The upper Taieri received a flush and is now in great shape for fly fishing. Hopefully this flush will rejuvenate water levels in the oxbow lakes. The Coal Pit Dam has been fishing particularly well recently. The lower Taieri has been high but it is dropping quickly and should fish well for all methods.

Southwest Otago area

The forecast for Saturday is quite good. The Pomahaka has been quite high and coloured but is dropping and clearing quickly. The Clutha is slightly coloured and should spin fish very well as it clears, especially with small silver lures.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium/high, dropping, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium/high, dropping, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Thunder plumps and scattered showers brought much needed rain to some streams on Tuesday. However, most waterways in North and Central Otago are still low and in need of more rain. Heavy rain is forecast for the Southern Lakes Mountain areas today which may raise river levels quickly. Most South Otago rivers are in good condition for fishing. Sunshine is forecast for North and Central Otago this Saturday. Some showers can be expected in South Otago and the Southern Lakes.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Waikouaiti and Kakanui received a much needed small fresh. This should improve the fishing over the next few days. Fly anglers should try small horn cased caddis nymphs during the day, and brown beetles and caddis flies late in the evenings.

Southern Lakes Area

Most tributary rivers are high and boisterous. Hopefully they will drop and be fishable by the weekend. The large lakes, Wakatipu, Hawea and Wanaka are all in good condition for trolling. Lake Hawea continues to produce a lot of well conditioned salmon. Deep water trolling with bright lures and jigging are good methods of targeting these fish. As December progresses, daytime temperatures and terrestrial insect activity should increase and improve the dry fly fishing on high country rivers. The green beetles should be making an appearance soon, and anglers are advised to carry some imitations with them.

Central Otago

The upper Clutha is still quite high and difficult to fish. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan is almost always a safe bet. The Nevis is excellent order and the water temperature at a good level for insect and fish activity.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri is in great order for fly fishing. If the day is hot try targeting the cooler deep water areas. The lower Taieri should fish well as it resides from a small fresh. This is a great time to get out spin fishing. Trout will make the most of the slightly coloured water and target bullies and smelt.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha remains high. The Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are clear and fishable. Water temperatures in these rivers have been quite high during the day lately. This may result in increased trout activity in the mornings and evenings when temperatures cool off. On hot days trout will often move into deep water or the well oxygenated riffle areas. Often a small gold bead head nymph and an indicator can be deadly when fishing in the bubbly water. The lower reach of the Waiwera River and the west branch of the Tokomairiro are holding reasonable numbers of medium sized trout at the moment. In the interest of conservation, anglers are advised to limit their bag in these smaller waters.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium/high, dropping
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, some colour in the Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Heavy rain in the western mountain ranges has discoloured a lot of high country rivers and the Southern Lakes are now approaching flood alert levels. Most South Otago streams are residing after high flows. Many Central and North Otago streams are low and in serious need of rain. The forecast over the next few days is generally good and most high country and southern waters should be fishing well by the weekend.

North Otago Area

The smaller rivers such as the Shag, Waikouaiti and Kakanui are all very low and clear. In the Waitaki system, the Ahuriri is discolouring the top of Lake Benmore. Lake Waitaki is still clear and in good condition for fishing. There have been some good trout caught on caddis emergers in the Waitaki around Kurow recently. Salmon are starting to run in the Rangitata River, with about 12 caught lately.

Southern Lakes Area

Most of the Wanaka, Hawea and Wakatipu tributary rivers are now falling after receiving very heavy rain in their catchments. They should settle down and be fishable by Saturday. The large lakes are very high. Sometimes trout will cruise around recently flooded lake edges and present good fishing opportunities. Lure fishing at river mouths near the discoloured water can also be effective. Lake Hawea continues to produce big salmon, up to 1.4kg. Jigging in deep water with bright lures can be a good way to target these fish.

Central Otago

The upper Clutha is high and difficult to fish at the moment. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan continues to fish well, but the Kawarau Arm has been quite discoloured. The Manuherikia is at a good level for fly fishing and would be well worth exploring on Saturday.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri should fish well as it resides after a bit of a fresh. The lower Taieri has been very low recently. Anglers are advised to use light line and lures. The small Rapala lures can be particularly deadly on light line.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha is very high and hard to fish at the moment. The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are settling down and should fish well this weekend. November is a great month for fishing in the Pomahaka above Kelso. Warmer temperatures increase insect activity and there is often good may fly hatches during the day and caddis rises in the evening.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.
Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General situation

Most waters throughout Otago are in good condition for fishing at the moment. The high country rivers have settled down and the coastal waters are clear and fishable. Rain is forecast for many areas on Saturday and this may discolour some waters. It is always a good idea to check the Regional Council website for up to the minute information on river flows before you embark on a fishing trip.

North Otago Coast

The Kakanui is very low and the Shag is quite low as well. During low conditions these waters often fish best in the evenings. Be on the lookout for caddis and brown beetle rises. The Waikouaiti River around Orbells Crossing is holding good numbers of trout up to 6lbs. White bait and cockabully imitations work well in this area. Worm fishing in the deeper pools can also be deadly.

Southern Lakes Area

Lake Hawea fished very well during the competition last week. Some of the more experienced anglers reported the best fishing that had ever seen, with some very well conditioned rainbows and big salmon caught. The average size of the salmon was 1.2kg and 46cm which is big for landlocked fish. There could be some really big salmon caught by the end of the season. Most of the high country rivers received a fresh on the 17th. They are now residing and should fish well, especially with large gold bead head nymphs. Try black bead heads if the trout are picky.

Central Otago

The Shotover has been very high and the Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan discoloured, but the Clutha Arm is in good order and continues to fish well. The caddis hatches on the upper Clutha should be starting to go well on calm evening. The Nevis River is settling down and the Manuherikia is holding good numbers of trout. There is often a caddis rise in the lower reaches of this river during calm spring evenings.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri has dropped and should be in good order. In the lower reaches of the Taieri spin anglers should try silver lures that imitate smelt and whitebait. Fly anglers can expect some good caddis and brown beetle rises on calm evenings around Outram over the next few weeks.

Southwest Otago

The Lower Clutha continues to fish well with small silver lures. The Pomahaka has dropped down to a fishable level. The Waipahi is in good order. The Catlins and Owaka Rivers are often over looked by anglers during November. This is a mistake as the tidal reaches of these waters can produce large sea-trout at this time of the year.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most high country waters and the North Otago streams are clear and fishable, while some of the larger rivers in South Otago are still residing after high flows. Warmer daytime temperatures should increase insect activity over the next week which will improve dry fly fishing. The weather is looking good for most places this Saturday, by then rivers right throughout Otago should be in good condition for fishing.
North Otago Coast: The Kakanui and Shag Rivers are low and clear. Often trout which are hard to catch during the day in these rivers become more active in the evenings and will rise to dry flies. Sedge and brown beetle imitations can be very productive at this time of the year.

Southern Lakes Area

The Hawea fishing competition is on this Friday and Saturday. Anglers are advised to get out on the water early before the north wester wind blows. Trolling with deep lines off the Dingle Burn and Timaru Creek mouths can produce some good fish. Green and some of the fluorescent tasmanian devil and cobra lures often work well. If this hardware fails to produce, try a green woolly bugger fly on a lead-line. Often the key to catching fish when trolling is getting the line down deep enough. If you are not getting any bites slow or stop the boat to allow the lures to sink deep, before putting some revs on to encourage a strike.

Central Otago

The shoreline of Lake Dunstan has been fishing very well with anglers catching good numbers of browns. The Kawarau arm has been produced quite a few salmon. The Manuherikia is in good order for fly fishing and the Manorburn Dam continues to produce some well conditions rainbows.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri flow has been quite high and fluctuating daily, possibly because of snow melt. It is beginning to drop and clear now. The lower river is in good order. Calm evenings at this time of the year are a great opportunity for fly anglers to catch a big one after dark using brown beetle imitations. These beetles are the adult of the grass-grub and hatch on warm evenings. They are clumsy fliers and tend to hit the water with a splash. They are a big source of protein and attract the attention of large trout, which can be fooled into taking a dry fly.

Southwest Otago

The Pomahaka is still quite discoloured; hopefully it will clear by the weekend. The Waipahi is a bit high but fishable and should be in good order this Saturday. The lower Clutha River continues to fish well for spin angler using small silver lures.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium -high, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly coloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured, dropping
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly coloured, dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Low, rising, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Low-medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The recent cold southerly front brought significant snowfalls to much of Otago. This is unusual for November and the snow is not expected to last long. There are warmer temperatures forecast for this weekend and this may result in snow melt colouring some rivers.

North Otago Coast

The Kakanui and Shag Rivers are low and clear. These waters should be a safe bet for anglers searching for clear water this weekend. The Hakataramea and Maerewhenua Rivers are in good order and carrying good stock of rainbow trout, and lots of anglers. A fly box has been found on the Maerewhenua, could the owner please contact Fish & Game.

Southern Lakes Area

Anglers considering heading into the high country this weekend are advised to check snow levels first. Some rivers may become discoloured as the snow banks melt. Lake fishing with large woolly buggers on fast sinking lines near river mouths can produce some great fishing at this time of the year.

Central Otago

The Manorburn Dam has been producing well conditioned rainbows recently. The upper Clutha and Hawea Rivers are at good levels for spin and fly fishing. Very large bead-head hares ear nymphs that imitate toe-biter larvae can fish really well in these rivers. Dunstan Creek and the Manuherikia River could experience some snow melt over the next few days.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri is presently at a nearly normal level; however snow melt may colour the river over the next few days. The irrigation dams throughout the Maniototo should be in good order this weekend. The Coalpit Dam has been fishing particularly well. The lower Taieri is in great order for spin and worm anglers. Southwest Otago: Despite high winds and rain, some anglers managed to catch good bags in the Waipahi Gold medal competition last weekend. Unfortunately the Waipahi and Pomahaka are now high and rising. The lower Clutha has been fishing extremely well over the past week. One angler reported hooking 30 fish over a two hour period. There appears to be quite a lot of smelt in the river and anglers using small silver lures have been having the best results. Often flows in the Clutha drop in the afternoon allowing anglers to access the best fishing spots. Another angler has been caught fishing without a licence in South Otago, so please make sure you have a licence before you go fishing. Good luck and remember you won't catch anything with a dry line.

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

Most waterways are in good condition for fishing at the moment. However, a southerly blast is expected to spread across much of Otago over the next few days, which will make fishing conditions challenging. The weather is predicted to clear on Sunday.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag, Kakanui and Waikouaiti rivers are all in good order for fishing. Try whitebait imitations in their lower reaches. The Pleasant River estuary has been producing the odd large sea run trout recently.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all clear and fishing well when weather conditions allow. Timaru Creek is open downstream from the road bridge and this area normally holds good number of rainbows in October. With the lake level high there should be some good fishing in the delta area.

Central Otago:

The Fraser and Manuherikia Rivers have been fishing very well recently. The Nevis is also in good order but be careful when driving above Commissioners Creek, as there are some slips on the road. Lake Dunstan continues to fish exceptionally well, especially in the Clutha delta area. Good numbers of large well conditioned brown and rainbow have been caught recently. Harling with a green woolly bugger fly off the Clutha River mouth can be very productive at this time of the year.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is slightly discoloured at the moment and in good condition for spin fishing. The oxbows in the Upper River have been fishing very well with some trout up to 5lb caught recently. In the Lower River angler should try worms and porina grubs in the deep holes and spin fishing with small silver bait fish imitations.

Southwest Otago:

Most South Otago rivers such as the Pomahaka and Waipahi are at medium levels but slightly coloured. They could easily become unfishable depending on how much rain is received over the next few days. The Lower Clutha River has been fishing very well recently. There is a lot of whitebait in the river around Kaitangata and the smelt have started to turn up in good numbers as well. Experienced anglers often bait fish with smelt which can be irresistible to large sea run trout.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium, clear
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

River and lake conditions are compiled by Fish and Game Otago with information from the Otago Regional Council received at 9.00am.

General Situation:

Most rivers and lakes in North and Central Otago are in fairly good condition for the start of the season. Unfortunately a southerly front is predicated to sweep across much of Otago around midday on Saturday which may make fishing conditions challenging. Anglers are advised to take spin fishing equipment with them this weekend in case the weather is too windy or the water too discoloured for fly fishing.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag and Waikouaiti rivers have received a small fresh and are now slightly coloured but they are dropping and clearing. These are great conditions for spin and worm fishing in the deeper holes.

Southern Lakes Area:

Diamond Creek is open and normally holds good numbers of wary brown trout early in the season. Spin fishing in Diamond Lake can be very productive during spring.

Central Otago:

The Nevis River has recently received a small fresh and is fairly clear but boisterous. Anglers now require a backcountry licence to fish on the Nevis which can be obtained free of charge on the Otago Fish & Game website. To protect this sensitive fishery anglers must now release fish 400mm or greater in length. The Manuherikia River is clear and in great condition for fishing. Lake Dunstan has been fishing very well with good bags of browns and rainbows caught near the Clutha River delta. Anglers thinking about heading to Poolburn this weekend should keep a watch out for snow falls on Saturday. Falls Dam holds good numbers of small to medium sized trout and normally fishes well at the start of the season.

Taieri Catchment:

The Upper Taieri River is slightly discoloured but fishable at the moment and should be in good order for spin fishing. The Lower Taieri is high and discoloured. The Loganburn is high and clear but check the weather forecast before into the high country.

Southwest Otago:

There has been recent rain at the Cairn and the Waipahi is rising. The upper reaches of the Pomahaka are also rising. Anglers are advised to check flows on the ORC website before heading South. The West Branch of the Tokomairiro River fished very well last season and would be well worth exploring. The upper reaches of the Waitahuna River have been in good order recently and would also be worth checking out.

Rangers will be active this weekend so please remember to carry your licence with you. Good luck - Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: Medium, slightly discoloured, dropping
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured, dropping
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured, dropping
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured, rising
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured, rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, dropping
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, dropping
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

The fishing season for most brown trout rivers and lakes in Otago opens on the 1st of October which is next Thursday. Please check your regulation book (obtained with your licence) before you start fishing any waterway. At present most lakes are full and the majority of rivers are in good condition for the start of the new fishing season.

North Otago Coast:

The Shag and Waikouaiti rivers open on 1 October and are presently low and clear. These rivers traditionally hold some big trout in their lower reaches at the start of the season. Last year the Shag fished well in October with fish in the 5-6lb bracket caught near the main road. Anglers should try whitebait imitations such as Grey Ghost and Parsons Glory lure flies.

Southern Lakes Area:

The major lakes are all full and the trout are hungry after winter. Good catches of rainbows have been reported Lake Dunstan and the Upper Clutha River. The salmon should start to run in southern end of Lake Hawea over the next few weeks.
Anglers should target late run rainbows and post-spawning browns congregating off the river mouths. Diamond Creek opens on 1 October and usually contains good numbers of brown trout early in the season.

Central Otago:

Most Central dams and reservoirs are holding plenty of water and are in good condition. Falls Dam, Loganburn and Poolburn Dam open on 1 October and traditionally fish well at the start of the season. The Manuherikia River is presently low and clear.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River is slightly discoloured at the moment and should be in good order for spin fishing on opening day if we don’t get too much rain. Rutherfords and Blakelys Dams are closed for lambing until the first weekend in November. Hamiltons Dam, Mathias Dam and Coal Pit Dam are in good order. These shallow productive still waters often fish best early season before water temperatures heat up too much.

Southwest Otago:

Many South Otago rivers suffered from flooding over winter. They are now below normal flows for this time of the year and should be in good condition for the start of the season, as long as the present weather patterns hold. In the lower Clutha River good numbers of browns and the odd rainbow have been caught recently, with some of these fish full of whitebait. Smelt are starting to turn up in the river now. The Waipahi River is an early season favourite, with anglers often experiencing mayfly rises on overcast and cloudy days.

Rangers will be active on opening day and weekend so please remember to carry your licence with you. Good luck - Morgan Trotter

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, slightly discoloured
Pomahaka River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly discoloured
Hawea River: High, slightly discoloured
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation:

There has been a lot of rain in the head waters of the Southern Alps, and the Southern Lakes are full and their rivers high. In Coastal and South Otago the weather has been more settled and most rivers are at normal levels.The main fishing season in brown trout rivers closes today, but there are still a lot of other angling opportunities to be had over winter. Please refer to angling guide before you fish any water.

North Otago Area:

The Waikouaiti and Shag Rivers remain open year round down-stream of the main road bridges. These rivers can yield some big sea-run trout during winter. Lakes Benmore, Waitaki and Aviemore are also open to angling all year and can produce some fantastic fishing during winter, especially when fishing for spawning runs off the mouths of the larger rivers such as the Ahuriri.

Southern Lakes Area:

The large lakes such as Hawea, Wanaka and Wakatipu are open to angling all year. Again anglers fishing off river mouths can do particularly well when spawning trout begin to run. Most of the back country rivers do not close until the end of May. The fishing for fresh run fish (some of which can be very large) in back country rivers during May can be excellent.

Central Otago:

The best spot for winter fishing in Central Otago is possibly the Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan. Try trolling for schools of rainbows off the mouth of the Clutha. The Clutha River downstream of Luggate is open to fishing year round and can experience large runs of spawning fish during the winter months. Try tactics traditionally used on the Taupo Rivers during winter such as upstream nymph fishing with a heavy bomb and a glo-bug fly or lure fishing with a fast sinking line. Rapala type spinning lures also work well.

Taieri Catchment:

The Taieri River downstream of Silverstream confluence remains open all year. Spin fishing with banana or black and gold tobies can produce some large sea-runs. Near town, Sullivans Dam and the Southern Reservoir are open and good places to go on a sunny afternoon to beat the winter fishing blues.

Southwest Otago Area:

The Lower Clutha River is open to fishing year round. On sunny afternoons the Clutha below Clydevale can experience some great mayfly rises. Spin fishing for sea-runs in the estuary area can also be productive.

Good luck and make the most of the winter season. Regular fishing reports will start again on the 24th of September.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, rising
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, some didymo
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

River conditions have been fairly stable over the last week. Fine weather and stable flows in April often result in some excellent mayfly hatches and great dry fly fishing. With cooler water temperatures experienced at this time of the year, insect activity often peaks during the warmest part of the day which is generally around mid-afternoon. The forecast for Saturday is mostly fine with some rain predicted for many areas on Sunday.

North Otago Area

The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui remain very low and clear. Expect the trout to be very spooky, so a careful approach and light line is required. Try small mayflies and emerger nymphs on any trout seen rising.

Southern Lakes Area

Concentrate your efforts off stream mouths for trout that will be preparing to run up stream and spawn. Backcountry rivers such as the Greenstone, Hunter and Makarora often experience runs of fresh fish in April and May. These lake resident fish can respond well to bead head nymphs and egg patterns such as glo-bugs. Diamond Creek should be holding good numbers of salmon.

Central Otago

Target the top of Lake Dunstan for large rainbows and browns that will be preparing to run up the Clutha to spawn. Try rapala type lures with a splash of red, or red and orange lure flies. High flows in the Hawea River may result in a fair bit of didymo discolouration in the main stem of the Upper Clutha.

Taieri Catchment

In the lower and middle reaches of the Taieri anglers should try the deep pools located close to spawning streams. Red and gold veltic spinners are advised to trigger an aggressive response from trout. The Upper Taieri is in good condition for dry fly fishing.

Southwest Otago Area

Salmon appear to be well distributed throughout the Lower Clutha between Millers Flat and Roxburgh. The Waipahi and Pomahaka are in good order for dry fly fishing. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

Salmon are running in the Lower Clutha, so try a silver spoon on 15-20lb line in the deeper pools The best time is early in the morning or late in the evening.

Good luck and make the most of what is left of the main fishing season.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, some didymo
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The main season is once again drawing to a close with only two weeks to go, but its not quite time to hang up the gear yet. End of season can often provide some of the most productive fishing, as trout congregate around stream mouths before heading up to winter spawning grounds. Just remember that if fish are getting slimy or going grey on the belly, they are past their best eating and should be carefully released to do their thing upriver.

North Otago Area

The Waitaki is running at about 350cumecs, this is slightly high but fishable. Rainbow trout in particular will be congregating immediately downstream of any spawning salmon to catch spilled eggs. Make sure you fish with something that contains red or orange. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all low and clear. Fishing has been tricky and the best success has been had in the lower reaches and estuaries.

Southern Lakes Area

All of the lakes and in-flowing rivers are looking good for this weekend. Fish in the lakes are moving out of the shallows as the water cools and can be found at stream mouths or around drop-off zones, silver or grey coloured spinners and flies work best in these areas.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan is medium and clear and fishing well. The Manuherikia and Nevis are normal and clear. Fish tend to move into the Clutha River above Lake Dunstan at this time of year, so be on the lookout for these. Remember, red is a good colour for lures and flies.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri River is low and clear in the Styx Basin and normal and clear from Maniototo downstream. Spin anglers are having good success at the moment, particularly in the gorge between Outram and Sutton and near any of the tributary stream mouths. Red and gold Veltics are the lure of choice.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka is normal and clear and continues to produce good fishing for both resident and migratory trout. The Lower Clutha is high and still fluctuating due to generation at Roxburgh. The areas around Beaumont and Millers flat are fishing well and there are still a few salmon being caught in the deep pools. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip:

All the rivers and lakes are looking good for the weekend. Veltics, spinners and flies with a bit of red or orange should do the trick.

Good luck and may many fish see the bottom of your net.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Low, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: Medium, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

With spurts of rain here and there for most waters over the last week, rivers and stream levels in coastal South Otago and Southland have been up and down a bit. These has made life a little tough for fly anglers, but spin and bait anglers that have targeted the right areas around tributary stream mouths have done pretty well. The weather for this Easter weekend is looking good but it will be cool.

North Otago Area

The salmon fishing season is now closed in the Waitaki River. Stream mouths and traditional salmon spawning areas are worth looking at over the next couple of weeks as brown trout congregate before spawning runs and rainbows hang around hoping for a feed on salmon eggs. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all clear and fishable. Sea run trout are trickling in and some good fish have been caught in the lower Waikouaiti.

Southern Lakes Area

Most of the salmon schooling at the mouth of the Dart and Rees rivers have moved upstream to spawn, but there are good numbers of brown trout hanging around all of the river mouths chasing the last of the landlocked whitebait. Silver or grey coloured spinners and flies work best and it helps if it is a dull day with a bit of wind.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan is high and clear and fishing well. The Manuherikia is low and clear and mayfly hatches are good around the middle of the day. The area of Lake Roxburgh around the Manuherikia confluence is still a good place to fish with red and gold spinners. The Nevis has received a bit of rain and is slightly high but will drop and clear quickly.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is high and slightly coloured, but if we get no more rain should be ok for the weekend. These conditions are ideal for targeting migratory trout that are hanging around in deep pools close to where spawning tributaries join the main river. Spinners with red and gold colouration are the best choice when targeting these areas or if you are fly fishing; down and across with a couple of bead head nymphs should work well.

Southwest Otago Area

The Lower Clutha is fluctuating a lot at present due to generation at Roxburgh and the river is choked with didymo, this can make spin fishing pretty frustrating at times. The Pomahaka is high and slightly discoloured but fishable from Kelso upstream. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

Lowland rivers may be high and slightly coloured but all the lakes should be good. Keep your options open by taking you fly and spinning gear.

Good luck and have a safe Easter.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, rising
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, rising
Pomahaka River: High rising
Waipahi River: High rising
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Rainfall has been light across most of Otago over the past week, with some moderate falls in the Southern Lakes area. Most rivers are at below average levels, clear and in good order for fishing. North-westerly conditions are predicted for many areas this weekend.

North Otago Area

The salmon fishing season is now closed in the Waitaki River. There is often some good trout fishing in the Hakataramea River in April (especially after a fresh) for rainbow trout that are targeting salmon eggs. The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui remain clear and fishable. There are a few sea-runs in the estuaries of these rivers and night fishing with a large, dark feathered-lure on the edge of the deep guts can produce some big fish.

Southern Lakes Area

The controlled fishing period for the Greenstone River is finished, so all you need is a backcountry licence to go there. Fishing can be quite tricky in backcountry rivers at this stage of the season because most fish are well educated. Anglers can expect some fresh run fish from the Lakes to enter the rivers from mid-April onwards. Salmon and trout are presently congregating around the larger river mouths to feed on whitebait.

Central Otago

The Nevis and the Manuherikia Rivers remain in good condition for fishing. The rainbows in Lake Dunstan are in superb condition after a summer of feeding and there are normally some large trout caught at this time of the year. Fishing late in the evening over weed beds with woolly bugger lure flies (and strong line) is a good method of targeting large fish.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is clear and in good fishing condition after receiving a large fresh which blew out a lot of algae and aquatic plants. Trout are beginning to congregate in deep pools of the Taieri that are close to the smaller spawning streams. Over the next few months they will enter these streams to spawn.

Southwest Otago Area

The Clutha is in excellent order at the moment and the Pomakaha and Waipahi are clear and fishable. A few salmon have been reported around Ettrick and at the Roxburgh Dam Wall. Fish & Game Otago would appreciate the heads of any salmon caught. If you land a salmon, please contact Fish & Game or drop off heads to either the Dunedin or Cromwell office.

This week's tip

At this time of the year, trout can begin to display aggressive spawning behaviour and lures with red are very effective, especially red and gold veltic spinners.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything mowing the lawns.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: Very high, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most waterways in Otago are in excellent order for fishing and the forecast for Saturday is looking quite good. Anglers are encouraged to get out and make the most of the good conditions this weekend.

North Otago Area

The Waikouaiti, Shag and Kakanui are all clear and fishable. On calm afternoons anglers can expect some mayfly hatches now that water temperatures have dropped back. The salmon season in the Waitaki River closes at the end of this month. Lake Waitaki has been fishing well recently. Especially for boat anglers drifting and using rapala type lures.

Southern Lakes Area

Whitebait are starting to congregate around the mouths of the larger rivers such as the Matukituki and Dart. Landlocked salmon should also be holding off river mouths in preparations for their spawning run in April. Small silver lures and grey ghost flies are good whitebait imitations and effective on the salmon. Most backcountry rivers are in good order. The Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone closes at the end of this month, several beats are still available. To apply for beats visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Check out the Upper Clutha on clam evenings for caddis hatches. The Manuherikia and Nevis are low, clear and fishing well. There has been some very large trout caught in the Nevis recently and the Manuherikia has been producing some good evening rises above Galloway. A few salmon (around 5 kg) have been caught below the Roxburgh Dam and around Millars flat.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is clear and fishable throughout its length. Fly anglers can expect some good afternoon mayfly hatches on calm days and spin anglers should try deep pools in the lower river early in the morning for large sea-runs and salmon.

Southwest Otago Area

Anglers can expect good numbers of sea-runs in the Pomahaka system after the large fresh. Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight and length of any salmon you catch and then freeze the head. Contact Otago Fish & Game for collection.

This week's tip

Many anglers don’t bother to get out fishing later in the season when temperatures become cooler. This is a big mistake. Trout are in prime condition and cooler conditions often result in peak fish and insect activity from late morning to mid afternoon when water temperatures are highest.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything mowing the lawns.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium,clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

by Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago are back to normal or nearly normal levels after the heavy rain and snow last week. Fish should be hungry after the fresh. In most rivers and streams the water temperatures have dropped with the recent cooler nights, which should see fish feeding throughout the day. A southerly change is predicted for most areas this weekend but should start to clear by late Sunday evening.

North Otago Area

Flows in the Kakanui, Shag and Waikouaiti really benefited from heavy rain last week. Fish should be actively feeding after this fresh and there could be some good mayfly hatches on calm afternoons. Often spin fishing with small veltic lures produces good results as these rivers drop and clear

Southern Lakes Area

Whitebait are starting to run at many stream mouths in the southern lakes region. These attract rainbow trout and salmon. Silver or grey coloured spinners and flies early in the morning or late in the evening work best. Many salmon will start to run up the rivers shortly. The Controlled Fishery on the Greenstone is almost over with 12 days to go. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Most of the large dams are high, clear and the cicada activity has died down. The Manuherikia and Nevis are low but the water temperatures have dropped and they should be fishing well. Rainbows should begin to congregate around the Upper Clutha mouth at the top of Lake Dunstan soon. Often trout are in the peak of physical condition at this time of the year just prior to spawning. Good numbers of salmon have been caught below the Roxburgh Dam weighing between 4 and 9 Kg.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is discoloured throughout its length still, but spin fishing normally improves in the lower river at this time of year with the drop in water temperatures. Salmon often start to move through the gorge section at this time of the year

Southwest Otago Area

The Lower Clutha can produce some good afternoon mayfly hatches at this time of the year. Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight, length, and freeze the head of any salmon you catch. Contact Otago Fish & Game for collection. The Pomahaka is still high and discoloured and anglers can expect a run of sea trout and salmon when it drops and clears.

This Weeks Tip

Spin fishing the length of the Clutha with large silver veltics or tobies can be very effective. If you are heading for the Southern Lake area the whitebait are on the move around the river mouths.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Medium,dropping
Shag River: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low. discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: High, rising, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High,clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: High clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Southerly weather patterns and heavy rain have discoloured a lot of rivers and made fishing conditions cold and difficult. The good news is that the forecast for this weekend is looking better, and anglers can expect some excellent fishing for sea trout and salmon as rivers drop and clear.

North Otago Area

The Shag has dropped back and is clearing and fishable, but the Kakanui remains high and discoloured. Quite a few salmon have been caught in the Waitaki River in recent weeks, which is presently high and running at about 500 cummecs.

Southern Lakes Area

Salmon are beginning to congregate around river mouths in preparation for spawning. Fishing in the deep water off the major rivers such as the Dart, Matukituki and Hunter should be quite productive over the next few weeks. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Most of the large dams and high, clear and fishable. Water temperatures in the smaller central Otago irrigation dams have dropped back, so there should be more fish activity during the middle of the day. The Manuherikia is at a good level for spin and fly fishing.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is discoloured throughout its length, but anglers can expect some great spin fishing in the lower reaches when it clears. Rutherfords, Blakelys and Coal Pit dam are a good bet for anglers searching for some clear water.

Southwest Otago Area

Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system to determine their origin. Please record the weight, length, and freeze the head of any salmon you catch. Contact Fish & Game for collection. The Pomahaka is at its first flood warning, anglers can expect a run of sea trout and salmon when it drops and clears. The Teviot Fishing Competition is on this Sunday. This river is full of trout and a great place to encourage new anglers. Registration is at the Bridge Huts from 8.30am.

This week's tip

Spin fishing in clearing waters with black and gold tobies and rapalas can be very effective. Often large trout are more aggressive when the water is slightly coloured and will attack a lure that would otherwise scare them.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, discoloured
Shag River: Medium, clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, flood warning
Waipahi River: High, rising, discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, rising
Hawea River: High, didymo
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago received a fresh on Monday and have now dropped down to fishable levels. Some rain is forecasted for many areas this Friday, but this is predicted to clear quickly leaving good conditions for fishing on Saturday. Salmon are still being caught in the Otago Harbour so if you don’t want to go far this could be an option.

North Otago Area

The North Otago area has had a big fresh and rivers are still high. There will be good fishing for sea run trout and salmon as they drop and clear.

Southern Lakes Area

The back country rivers are in great order. There is still some great dry fly fishing to be had on warm days so don’t put your cicada imitations away just yet. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone visit the Fish & Game website. Lakes are all clear and salmon are starting to congregate around the river mouths so this should suit the spin anglers.

Central Otago

Loganburn, which is very low, Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn would all be worth exploring. Fishing in the mornings and evenings can be very productive on these lakes due to the good sedge and midge hatches, although with lower water temperature fish will be feeding throughout the day.

Taieri Catchment

The lower Taieri is low but there are reports of salmon being landed above Outram. The upper Taieri is fishing well and lets not forget Lake Mahinerangi, the lake is high and has good numbers of trout and perch. It fishes well this time of year with all angling methods.

Southwest Otago Area

Fish & Game require salmon heads from the Clutha system for a study on their origins. It would be greatly appreciated if any anglers landing a salmon could record the weight, length, freeze the head and contact Fish & Game for collection. Large sea-run trout and salmon are currently migrating through the lower Clutha and Pomahaka catchments. The Teviot Fishing Competition is on the 15th of March and registration is at the bridge huts from 8.30am.

This Weeks Tip

Fly anglers, make the most of what is left of the terrestrial insect activity this month by using blow fly, beetle, cicada and grass hopper imitations and for the spin fisherman who are targeting the salmon, a silver spoon or zed spinner can be effective.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything sitting on your couch at home.

Steve Dixon, Fish & Game Otago

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, slightly discoloured
Shag River: High, dropping, clearing
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: High, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: Medium, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, dropping, clearing
Waipahi River: Low and dropping
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, slightly coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers in Otago remain high and coloured from the heavy rain received a few days ago. More rain is forecast for many places this weekend. Although these conditions can be difficult for fly fishing; slightly discoloured water can be very productive for spin fishing.

North Otago Area

The North Otago area received more rain than other regions and all the rivers are still high and discoloured. The Waitaki River is at about 450 cubic meters and rising. Fishing in the estuarine areas as the waters clear may produce some big sea runs. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

[See also Save Trotter's Creek]

Southern Lakes Area

The large lakes are all clear and fishable. Most high country rivers are in good order after receiving a fresh, but anglers are advising to check the weather forecast before heading in to the backcountry. Despite difficult fishing conditions some well condition trout were landed at the Hawea competition last weekend. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The Manuherikia and Lindis Rivers are dropping, clearing and in good order for exploring with small veltic spinners on a light thread line. Poolburn and Manorburn have both been fishing well for anglers using thread line equipment.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very discoloured in the lower reaches but fishable in the upper section. Hopefully the recent fresh will have flushed out the algal throughout the river and anglers will be able to enjoy some good fishing as the river drops and clears. Anglers can expect a run of sea trout as the river drops.

Southwest Otago Area

The large flush of discoloured water in the Pomahaka system should have started a run of sea trout and a few salmon as well. There appears to be salmon distributed throughout the lower Clutha River at the moment. Some large salmon (around 20lb) have been reported at the Roxburgh Dam Wall and a few caught (around 12lb mark) in the Clydevale and Millars Flat areas over the last few weeks.

This week's tip

Triple your chances by fishing with silver zed spinners and 12-20 lb line in the lower Clutha and Taieri systems. During February and March this technique can produce salmon, sea-run trout and large resident trout as well.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: High, discoloured
Shag River: High, discoloured
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, slightly discoloured
Taieri River at Outram: High, discoloured
Pomahaka River: High, discoloured
Waipahi River: Medium, slightly discoloured
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, discoloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, some didymo
Hawea River: High, some didymo
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, slightly discoloured
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Almost all rivers in Otago are low, clear and below their average flow levels. A southerly front is expected over the next few days bringing rain, showers and a rise in river levels to most places.The annual Otago Harbour Salmon Fishing Competition is on this weekend. Tickets are available from most sporting good stores.

North Otago Area

The North Otago streams all remain very low. Hopefully the predicted southerly front will bring a much needed fresh to these waters. The Waitaki River is flowing at about 350 cummecs and there have been a few salmon caught recently. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

[See also Save Trotter's Creek]

Southern Lakes Area

The annual Lake Hawea Fishing Competition is on this weekend. Entry forms are available form the Hawea Hotel. Local ranger, Bill Wells is predicting some good catches of salmon which have been in great condition this season. The Upper Clutha is low, clear and in great order for nymph fishing during the day and sedge fishing at night. The fishing in Lake Dunstan has been a bit difficult during the heat of the day; better results can be expected late in the evenings. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

Cicada fishing on the high country dams over the past few weeks has been very sporadic due to the unsettled weather conditions. If you arrive at your destination and the conditions are too cold for cicadas, try small caddis nymphs instead. Some sedge and mayfly rises can be expected on calm evenings in the Manuherikia which is low and clear.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri remains very low and clear right throughout its length, making fish spotting easy. In the middle section of the river trout can be found cursing the deeper pools and targeting willows grubs. If no fish can be seen rising, try fishing the well oxygenated riffles. A few salmon are starting to run past Outram.

Southwest Otago Area

Some large sea-runs have been caught in the Clutha which is in great order for spin and fly fishing. Two pods of sea-run trout have moved into the Pomahaka system; however a fresh is required in this river to really get them running. Rainfall predicted for this weekend could result in a fresh. Fishing for sea-runs and salmon after the fresh early nest week may be very productive.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Very low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Low, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Low, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Most rivers throughout Otago remain at low to normal levels and are clear and fishable. The forecast for most areas apart from South Otago is showers and then fine for the weekend. This should result in some excellent fishing conditions on Saturday and Sunday. The salmon fishing in the Dunedin harbour has been quite good recently. The average size of salmon caught has been around 5kg.

North Otago Area

The Shag and Kakanui River catchments have received light rainfall but more is required. Hopefully rain over the next few days will provide a much needed fresh in these rivers. Trout are feeding on willow grubs and are concentrated in the pools where water temperatures are cooler. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

Southern Lakes Area

All the large lakes are clear and fishable, and the backcountry rivers are in excellent order. A heavy rain warning is forecast for the Western Ranges, north of the Haast River. The Upper Clutha is in great order and the sedge fishing has been excellent with lots of well condition fish caught. Nymphing the runs and riffles with large bead head nymphs that imitate toe-bitter larvae can also produce some great fishing at this time of the year. There are good numbers of fish in each beat of the Controlled Fishery on the Greenstone. To apply for a beat, visit the Otago Fish & Game website.

Central Otago

The cicada fishing on the high country dams has been average due to the cooler weather conditions lately. The forecast for Central this weekend is good and this should get the cicada action going. Loganburn remains low, but Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn are all high and clear.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very low and clear right throughout its length. Some anglers have been making the most of the low levels to access deep pools in the Taieri Gorge that could not normally be reached. Some very large trout have been pulled out of these pools. Salmon have started to run and there have been some caught above Outram.

Southwest Otago Area

Salmon and sea-run trout should be migrating through the Clutha and Pomahaka systems. Any deep holding pools would be well worth exploring first thing in the morning or late afternoon with small silver salmon spoons, tobies or z-spinners. The Mataura and Pomahaka Rivers have been fishing well on over cast days lately.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The weather and water conditions are looking great for cicada fishing on our larger lakes this Waitangi weekend. Most rivers throughout Otago are at very low to normal levels and clear.

North Otago Area

The streams of North Otago are all running out of water and require rainfall. Anglers are advised to get out early in the morning when temperatures are at their lowest or target the estuarine areas where there is more water. The Shag and Kakanui Rivers are at, or near their minimum flow levels which restrict abstraction. Submissions on proposed minimum flows for the Waianakarua River and Trotters Creek close on the 9th of March. Contact the Otago Regional Council for more information.

Southern Lakes Area

The backcountry rivers are in great order and with the terrestrial insect activity heating up, there should be some excellent dry fly fishing this weekend. To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone visit the Otago Fish & Game website. Boat anglers seeking shelter from north-westerly winds should try The Neck on Lake Hawea, or the lower part of the Cromwell gorge on Lake Dunstan. Diamond and Reids Lake often fish very well with large dry flies at this time of the year.

Central Otago

The predicted hot weather should get the cicadas going and dry fly fishing on the high country reservoirs should really start to fire up. North-westerly winds are predicted later in the weekend but these may help to blow the insects on to the water. Loganburn (which is low), Onslow, Manorburn and Poolburn would all be worth exploring. Fly anglers should carry a range of cicada imitations and also some beetle type flies such as green humpys.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is very low throughout its length. Lake Mahinerangi is high and would be a great place to take the kids out fishing. This lake has lots of perch which hit small lures and worms very well, and are great fun to start children fishing on.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are low and anglers should target the deeper pools with cooler water and the fast well oxygenated riffles. The Lower Clutha is in outstanding order and primed for some great fishing this weekend. There is some excellent water below Clydevale which is easily accessible. Salmon should be starting to run soon, so don’t forget to take your salmon rod.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Very low, clear
Waipahi River: Low, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: Low, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Low, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The amount of rainfall received over the last week has been limited and most rivers throughout Otago are at low or very low levels. The waterways in North Otago are particularly low. A southerly change with showers is predicted for most areas this weekend. Hopefully the North Otago catchments will receive some much needed rain.

North Otago Area

The Shag and Waianakarua Rivers are very low and still suffering from a toxic algal bloom. People are advised not to let children or dogs swim in these waters. The large flushing flows that were put down the Waitaki River were successful in pushing a lot of didymo out of the system. This could lead to some good salmon fishing over the next few weeks.

Southern Lakes Area

To apply for beats on the Controlled Fishery in the Upper Greenstone River visit the Otago Fish & Game website. Some of the backcountry rivers were high at the start of the week but are back down to normal levels now. Trolling anglers using leadlines on Lake Wakatipu have been doing very well recently. Some experienced anglers have been averaging 6 fish a day per boat.

Central Otago

The trout have started feeding on cicadas! Loganburn which is quite low was fishing well early in the week before the cold snap. Anglers can expect some great fly fishing when the weather heats up again. On the irrigation dams, trout have been targeting adult damsel flies. Rutherfords Dam has a bad algal bloom.

Taieri Catchment

The Upper Taieri is low but slightly coloured. There has been a lot of trout rising on Falls Dam (which is high) on calm days. Although the average size of fish on this water is relatively small, the scenery is outstanding. The Taieri below Hyde is very low and water temperatures have been very hot during the day. Lake Mahinerangi is very high. It would be worth exploring the flooded edges for cruising trout and perch.

Southwest Otago Area

The Upper Pomahaka with should fish well with cicada imitations over the next few weeks. The Waipahi is low and clear but quite weedy. The Catlins Rivers are low and clear. Sparsely tied spent spinner flies and willow grubs are a good bet for fly fishing on small streams are the moment. If these don’t work, try the largest cicada imitation you can find.

World Wetlands Day

The World Wetlands Day celebration is on at the Sinclair Wetlands on the Lower Taieri Plains this Sunday at 1.00pm. There will be guest speakers, tree plantings and a free afternoon tea; so bring the family along.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, slightly coloures
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, rising
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, clear
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: High, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

The North Otago Rivers and the Taieri River are very low and clear. Most other streams throughout Otago are at low or normal levels. Sunshine and northwest winds are forecast for North and Central Otago over the next few days, while some patchy showers are predicted for the Southern Lakes and South Otago.

North Otago Area

Unfortunately the Shag and Waianakarua Rivers are suffering from a toxic algal bloom and people are advised not to let children or dogs swim in these waters. The cause of the bloom is unknown but it seems to occur during prolonged low flow periods. The Waitaki River has been very high. Hopefully these high flows will have flushed some of the didymo out. Lake Waitaki normally fishes well at this time of the year and is probably the best option in North Otago

Southern Lakes Area

Trout have been targeting Manuka (green) Beetles on Lake Wakatipu and many of the backcountry rivers. The Controlled Fishery on the Upper Greenstone River starts on the 1st of February. For more information visit the Otago Fish & Game website. In Lake Hawea trout have been making good use of the high levels and cruising around the shoreline feeding on bullies.

Central Otago

Poolburn and Manorburn are fishing well and trout have been feeding on Manuka Beetles. They should start feasting on the cicadas soon. If you are unable to rise a trout, change to a type 3 sinking line and a green woolly bugger fly which imitates damsel fly larvae. The Lindis River is holding more water this season than it has for a long time. It could be worth investigating this river upstream of Ardgour.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri at Outram is extremely low and has been flat lined for several days. With the rest of the river so low the estuarine area could well be holding more fish than normal. Spin fishing in the late evening can produce some large sea-runs at this time of the year. The upper river is also low and very weedy in places.

Southwest Otago Area

The Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are at ideal levels for fly fishing. In the larger pools trout are locked on to willow grubs. Large sea-run trout should start migrating through the Lower Clutha and Pomahaka system soon. The Catlins Rivers are all low and clear.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Extremely low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, clear
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, slightly coloured
Hawea River: Very high, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Otago is experiencing typical summer conditions and most rivers are low and clear. Some showers are forecast for the majority of the region this weekend.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Kakanui and Maerewhenua Rivers are all very low and clear. These waterways would really benefit from some rain. Further north the Waitaki dams are spilling and the Waitaki River is high and rising, making it very difficult to fish. The Rangitata is clearing after a fresh and has been salmon fishing very well. Most of the Waitaki Lakes are very high and there are some great opportunities to catch trout fossicking around flooded edges. The Hakataramea is in good order and has been fishing well.

Southern Lakes Area

The large lakes are all high and clear and have been fishing well when weather conditions allow. Early in the morning and late in the evening are the best times to beat the north-west winds. Most back country rivers received a fresh on the 10th and are in good order at the moment. Rain is expected in the western ranges over the weekend. Lake Hayes is experiencing another bad algal bloom, with reports of fish kills.

Central Otago

Lake Dunstan continues to produce large, well conditioned fish. The Manorburn Dam has also been fishing well. A few cicadas are starting to get active and it shouldn’t be long before fish start targeting them on the high country dams. Green beetle imitations are fishing well at the moment.

Taieri Catchment

Most of the irrigation dams in the Maniototo are quite weedy around their edges. Using a bubble on a spinning rod is a good method of getting a fly (or a worm) out to the open water. Rutherfords Dam is experiencing an algal bloom. The Lower Hamiltons Dam is slightly coloured. The lower Taieri is very low and weedy in places. The upper river around the Styx basin is in good order for fly fishing.

Southwest Otago Area

Most rivers are low and clear. Willow grubs are starting to appear and all fly anglers should carry some imitations with them. Fish these imitations as close to the surface film as possible. Anglers should not be deterred if there are a few showers over the weekend. During summer a low-moderate amount of rain will often freshen rivers and improve the fishing. A 26lb salmon was caught in the lower Clutha over the holiday break.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

Most rivers throughout South, Central and Coastal Otago are experiencing typical summer conditions and they are normal to very low and clear. Many backcountry rivers in the Southern Lakes have been high and are expected to rise again with the arrival of a southerly front. Scattered showers are predicted for much of Otago over the next few days.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Waikouaiti, Kakanui and Waianakarua are all very low and clear. These rivers would fish best early in the morning or late in the evening when water temperatures are cool. If you are fishing small streams during the heat of the day try targeting the deep pools or fast bubbly riffles, where water temperatures are colder and oxygen levels higher.

Southern Lakes Area

A heavy rain warning has been issued for Otago headwaters and anglers should double check the forecast before heading into the back country. On the lakes the northwest winds have been frustrating angling efforts. Trout are starting to target green beetles near over hanging vegetation. When weather conditions allow boat anglers should try dry fly fishing near lakeside vegetation or make good use of fish finders and target fish lying in deep water. Jigging, which involves lowering a lure from a stationary boat and jerking it back in can be very successful when fishing in deep water.

Central Otago

The holiday crowds are starting to thin out on Lake Dunstan which has received a lot of fishing pressure. Despite the pressure some very good bags have caught by anglers fishing from the shoreline in the evenings. Spin anglers should try light lines and rapala type lures on the trout that have become well educated. Fly anglers should use snail and damsel fly patterns. The Manorburn Dam has been producing some well conditioned fish recently.

Taieri Catchment

The Taieri is low and clear along its length. Higher day time temperatures have increased terrestrial insect activity and fly anglers should be trying blow fly and bee imitations. Cicadas should start to appear in the upper catchment soon. Some anglers have been quite successful fishing damsel fly imitations on the Maniototo irrigation dams.

Southwest Otago Area

The Pomahaka and Waipahi Rivers are in great condition for fly fishing. The lower Clutha is high and slightly coloured but has been spin fishing well, especially near the estuary. Some very large perch averaging 4lb have been caught around Kaitangata. Perch taste excellent and are great for getting young people into fishing.

Please remember to carry your fishing licence with you. There have been about 11 people caught fishing without licences since Christmas.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

from Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

This report concentrates on “Holiday Hotspots”, areas that should fish well over the Christmas and New Year holiday break. Although there are often lots of people on the waterways during this period, by concentrating your efforts on the most productive locations at the right time of the day you can still catch lots of fish. The following spots are known to produce good fishing over the holidays and are well worth exploring, especially at day break and late in the evening.

North Otago Area

Probably one of the most productive fisheries in the country is the top of Lake Benmore near the Ahuriri River delta. Large numbers of trout cruise over the weed beds near the river mouth. Fly anglers should try midge patterns early in the morning and then move to damsel fly larvae nymphs as the day warms up. Trolling anglers should be on the water very early and try rapala type lures or harling with green woolly buggers. Sedge fishing on the Waitaki River around Kurow can also be very productive at this time of the year.

Southern Lakes Area

The first anglers in the morning to reach the river mouths of the major tributaries generally find large numbers of trout cursing around the drop off. As the day progresses the trout move into the deeper water and trolling anglers will need lots of leadline out to get down to them. One of the most under utilised fishing methods in the Southern Lakes is worm fishing off the river mouths. When the trout go down deep during the day this can be a relaxing way to catch them. Fly anglers can expect some great angling for cursing trout around the edges of Diamond Lake [which is west of Lake Wanaka]. Deans Bank should also produce some great dry fly fishing on calm evenings. The Kawarau River outlet [from Lake Wakitipu] can experience some great sedge fishing after dark. Be warned there are some very large trout in this area and you should use heavy line to have any chance of landing them.

Central Otago

The shoreline of Lake Dunstan and Lake Onlsow are very productive fisheries that can accommodate a lot of angling pressure. Fishing a weighted nymph under an indicator over the weed beds can be deadly, especially when there is some wave action to give the nymph movement. The same technique with a worm bubble can also produce some great fishing. The Upper Clutha should spin fish well especially with rapala and mepps lures.

Taieri Catchment

Try the Taieri late in the evening with brown beetle and sedge fly imitations. In the lower river porina grubs and worms work well during the day. In the reservoirs such as Blakelys and Coalpit try green damsel fly nymphs with a fast retrieve.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha is the place to go. Try spin fishing with articulated trout, mepps and soft rubber lures. There is a lot of great access point along the Millennium Track above Beaumont.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Very low, clear
Shag River: Very low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Low, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Very low, clear
Pomahaka River: Low. clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: High, some colour
Clutha River at Cardrona: Medium, some colour
Hawea River: High, clear
Lake Onslow: Medium, clear
Lake Dunstan: Medium, clear
Lake Hawea: High, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

General Situation

Most rivers have just received a much needed fresh and there is some showers predicted for many areas over the next few days. Provided there is not too much rain most waterways should be in good condition for fishing over the weekend. Anglers should make the most of the conditions and get out on their favourite waters before the Christmas holiday crowds arrive.

North Otago area

Some showers are predicted for Saturday morning. These should clear by the afternoon. The Shag is presently coming down after a slight flush which will have provided some cool water and this should increase fish activity. The Waitaki Lakes have been fishing well recently. Casting a damsel fly nymph over lake shore weed beds can be very effective.

Southern Lakes area

The mountain forecast is looking quite good for Saturday and this should be a great weekend to get into the backcountry. The terrestrial insect activity is starting to heat up and fly anglers have a good chance of experiencing some excellent dry fly action with green beetle and blowfly imitations. Anglers targeting the landlocked salmon in the lakes should get up early and use bright lures.

Central Otago

Now is a good time to get out fishing on Lake Dunstan. Trout are often noticeably harder to catch on this lake after the Christmas holidays. Some very large brown trout around the 9lb mark have been caught in the head of this lake recently. Harling with green woolly buggers with red bead heads can be deadly at this time of the year. Reasonable numbers of land locked salmon have been caught near the Lake Dunstan dam wall. The Manuherikia should fish well as it drops and clears after receiving a good fresh. If the water is still slightly coloured try spin fishing or large Mrs Simpson or cockabully imitation flies. Often over looked, the lower Fraser River has been fishing well in recent seasons and is worth investigating.

Taieri catchment

The upper Taieri received a flush and is now in great shape for fly fishing. Hopefully this flush will rejuvenate water levels in the oxbow lakes. The Coal Pit Dam has been fishing particularly well recently. The lower Taieri has been high but it is dropping quickly and should fish well for all methods.

Southwest Otago area

The forecast for Saturday is quite good. The Pomahaka has been quite high and coloured but is dropping and clearing quickly. The Clutha is slightly coloured and should spin fish very well as it clears, especially with small silver lures.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium/high, dropping, clear
Pomahaka River: Medium/high, dropping, clearing
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, coloured
Clutha River at Cardrona: High, clear
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, clear
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Thunder plumps and scattered showers brought much needed rain to some streams on Tuesday. However, most waterways in North and Central Otago are still low and in need of more rain. Heavy rain is forecast for the Southern Lakes Mountain areas today which may raise river levels quickly. Most South Otago rivers are in good condition for fishing. Sunshine is forecast for North and Central Otago this Saturday. Some showers can be expected in South Otago and the Southern Lakes.

North Otago Area

The Shag, Waikouaiti and Kakanui received a much needed small fresh. This should improve the fishing over the next few days. Fly anglers should try small horn cased caddis nymphs during the day, and brown beetles and caddis flies late in the evenings.

Southern Lakes Area

Most tributary rivers are high and boisterous. Hopefully they will drop and be fishable by the weekend. The large lakes, Wakatipu, Hawea and Wanaka are all in good condition for trolling. Lake Hawea continues to produce a lot of well conditioned salmon. Deep water trolling with bright lures and jigging are good methods of targeting these fish. As December progresses, daytime temperatures and terrestrial insect activity should increase and improve the dry fly fishing on high country rivers. The green beetles should be making an appearance soon, and anglers are advised to carry some imitations with them.

Central Otago

The upper Clutha is still quite high and difficult to fish. The Clutha Arm of Lake Dunstan is almost always a safe bet. The Nevis is excellent order and the water temperature at a good level for insect and fish activity.

Taieri Catchment

The upper Taieri is in great order for fly fishing. If the day is hot try targeting the cooler deep water areas. The lower Taieri should fish well as it resides from a small fresh. This is a great time to get out spin fishing. Trout will make the most of the slightly coloured water and target bullies and smelt.

Southwest Otago Area

The lower Clutha remains high. The Waipahi and Pomahaka Rivers are clear and fishable. Water temperatures in these rivers have been quite high during the day lately. This may result in increased trout activity in the mornings and evenings when temperatures cool off. On hot days trout will often move into deep water or the well oxygenated riffle areas. Often a small gold bead head nymph and an indicator can be deadly when fishing in the bubbly water. The lower reach of the Waiwera River and the west branch of the Tokomairiro are holding reasonable numbers of medium sized trout at the moment. In the interest of conservation, anglers are advised to limit their bag in these smaller waters.

Good luck and remember you won’t catch anything with a dry line.

Waterway Water Level/Condition

Kakanui River: Low, clear
Shag River: Low, clear
Taieri River at Canadian Flat: Medium, clear
Taieri River at Outram: Medium/high, dropping
Pomahaka River: Medium, clear
Waipahi River: Medium, clear
Clutha River at Balclutha: Very high, dropping
Clutha River at Cardrona: High
Hawea River: Medium, clear
Lake Onslow: High, clear
Lake Dunstan: High, some colour in the Kawarau Arm
Lake Hawea: Medium, clear
Lake Mahinerangi: Medium, clear
Lake Wanaka: High, clear
Lake Wakatipu: High, clear

Report by Morgan Trotter, Fish & Game Otago

General Situation

Heavy rain in the western mountain ranges has discoloured a lot of high country rivers and the Southern Lakes are now approaching flood alert levels. Most South Otago streams are residing after high flows. Many Central and North Otago streams are low and in serious need of rain. The forecast over the next few days is generally good and most high country and southern waters should be fishing well by the weekend.

North Otago Area

The smaller rivers such as the Shag, Waikouaiti and Kakanui are all very low and clear. In the Waitaki system, the Ahuriri is discolouring the top of Lake Benmore. Lake Waitaki is still clear and in good condition for fishing. There have been some good trout caught on caddis emergers in the Waitaki around Kurow recently. Salmon are starting to run in the Rangitata River, with about 12 caught lately.

Southern Lakes Area

Most of the Wanaka, Hawea and Wakatipu tributary rivers are now falling after receiving very heavy rain in their catchments. They should settle down and be fishable by Saturday. The large lakes are very high. Sometimes trout will cruise around recently flooded lake edges and present good fishing opportunities. Lure fishing at river mouths near the discoloured water can also be effective. Lake Hawea continues to produce big salmon, up to 1.4kg. Jigging in deep water with bright lures can be a good way to target these fish.