Bumper trout season ahead

JACOB LUCAS - Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game

The new trout fishing season is fast approaching, and anticipation is high for 1 October when it all kicks off again.  

Rivers that have been closed for the winter period, open again, bringing the prospect of wilderness experiences, naive trout and good times with angling mates.

In the Top of the South, it’s hard to believe we have had yet another very settled winter period similar to last year when many regional trout fisheries prospered.

Stable river conditions throughout 2023 brought successful spawning and offered optimum conditions for trout to pack on condition, even over winter, which is often challenging for post-spawning fish to achieve.

Fast forward to the present and we are expecting more of the same, in fact, we are predicting a bumper season for many of our fisheries.

Here are some top local fishing destinations to try this season:

Motueka/Wangapeka: currently riding a population ‘high’, these rivers offered exceptional fishing last season, and we expect it to be even better this year. Winter fishing in the lower Motueka has revealed plenty of fish in good condition already - a great sign for the season ahead. It’s good to get in early for the Wangapeka before international anglers turn up, the Motueka will offer great spin/softbait fishing early on then become a fly fishers paradise as the season progresses.

Branch/Leatham: very popular due to annual rainbow trout releases here. Good access via 4WD roads along both rivers offers plenty of entry points to the river, however there may be some mid-week restrictions in the Branch due to logging operations. These medium-sized rivers are crystal clear, and rainbows can be found in pools and holding in fast water and will eagerly take flies or lures. With a few handy D.O.C huts placed next to the rivers, this catchment makes for an ideal overnighter. Both rivers are great ‘stepping-stone’ fisheries for beginner fly fishers.

Lake Argyle/Waimea Park: regular releases of 1kg + rainbows make these still-water fisheries some of the most popular in the region. Keep an eye out for our popular Lake Argyle tagged fish comp over the summer, where some great prizes can be won for anyone catching some of the lucky fish.

Tarndale Lakes: Small high-country tarns packed with brown trout; these angling jewels are a must-visit for any angler. Getting there is an adventure in itself, so it’s best tackled with a night or two at a local D.O.C hut to make the most of your trip. The tarns can be accessed via Hanmer all season, or through Rainbow Station when the road opens in December (toll applies). There are some excellent river fishing options in the area too.

Pelorus River: We expect there to be plenty of medium-sized rainbows kicking around the Pelorus this season from the Rai River confluence down to the sea. Our drift dive monitoring last season observed very high numbers of small fish which will now be entering the medium-sized class. A great option for spin or fly angling.

To get a piece of the action, head into your local sports shop or online to grab a licence for what we believe will be one of the best seasons in years.