Softbaiting Rivers - in your - Fish & Game New Zealand
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
| Special Issue 49
Softbaiting
Rivers
What's g
a pp e nin
h r
in you
!
region SPEY CASTING: OPENING NEW HORIZONS
// H-130
EVERYTHING
PROOF.
Fly tackle ad 1 full page
RRP2 $319. 95 // FIND IT AT // VERTEX.SPIKA.CO.NZ
FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND
DesigneD with
intention
The TrouT Angler Quiver
sageflyfish.com
flytackle.co.nz X igniter troUt LL Dart esn
Multi-ApplicAtion tech conditions presentAtion sMAll wAter euro nyMph
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 3
SPECIAL ISSUE FORTY-NINE
| Special Issue 49
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
MARTIN TAYLOR
EXECUTIVE EDITOR:
KEVIN POWER
ADVERTISING
KEVIN POWER
kevin@realcreative.co.nz
Softbaiting
027 22 999 68
Rivers
PRODUCTION & DESIGN MANAGER
CLARE POWER
clare@realcreative.co.nz
FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS
ANTON DONALDSON, CHRIS BELL, ADRIAN
BELL, JACK KÓS, JACK GAULD, DAVID MOATE,
RICHARD COSGROVE, ADAM ROYTER, MARK
WEBB
We welcome submissions for features from the
public. Please contact us in the first instance with
your article idea and for our article guidelines and
What's g information at:
nin
happe r fishandgame@realcreative.co.nz
in u
yo
The act of sending images and copy or related
!
region SPEY CASTING: OPENING NEW HORIZONS
material shall constitute an express warranty
by the contributor that the material is original,
exclusive to Fish and Game magazine and in no
OUR COVER: way an infringement on the rights of others.
It gives permission to Real Creative Media Ltd to
Pictured is Olive Armistead, 10-years old, holding one use in any way we deem appropriate, including but
of her catches from a trip to the canal system in the not limited to Fish and Game magazine, or on Fish
Mackenzie country. It's only a small one for the area, but and Game websites or digital media and in future
it is still a great catch on light tackle. publications by Fish & Game.
On a previous trip to the canals Olive managed to Opinions expressed in contributions need not
hook herself into the current Small Fry World Record, conform to Real Creative Media Ltd’s editorial
(10-years old and under), with a 14lb rainbow trout. policy as we wish to provide a vehicle for
This world record catch brought her tally of world discussion of different points of view on all things
records to four!! hunting and fishing.
Fishing-mad Olive has been surrounded by fishing her ISSN 1172 434X
whole life. Growing up whilst dad, Mark, was running
a pretty busy fishing charter business, she was exposed
to plenty of fishing talk and has met her fair share of
fishing personalities.
For her, catching a fish is only a small part of what she
loves about fishing — the rest is the adventure and
the entire journey. It’s the little things — like cooking
PUBLISHED BY REAL CREATIVE MEDIA LTD
marshmallows on the campfire, enjoying a hot chocolate
PO Box 8187, Cherrywood, Tauranga 3145
at the end of a cold day or just hanging out with her dad
NEW ZEALAND
for a few days — that she really enjoys.
PH: 027 22 999 68
4 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND
CONTENTS SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE
FEATURES
8 LOWLAND RIVER LOWDOWN
ANTON DONALDSON
REGULAR COLUMNS
6 CHIEF EXECUTIVE COMMENT
11 CAREFUL CATCH & RELEASE MARTIN TAYLOR
TACTICS - CHRIS BELL 7 CHIEF EXECUTIVE COMMENT
41 LATEST GEAR FOR THE SEASON
16 GOING WITH THE FLOW
SOFTBAITS IN RIVERS AND STREAMS 46 FEMALE COUNCILLORS
ADRIAN BELL 50 FISH AND GAME NEW ZEALAND
COUNCILLOR PROFILES
22 HITTING THE RESET BUTTON,
MY YEAR AS A NON-RESIDENT
JACK KÓS
28 TAKE A MATE FISHING
JACK GAULD
REGIONAL VOICE
54 NORTHLAND
32 IT'S ALL ABOUT THE ANGLES
56 AUCKLAND/WAIKATO
DAVID MOATE
60 EASTERN
36 SPEY CASTING 64 HAWKE’S BAY
THE TECHNIQUE OF TWO-HAND
CASTING - RICHARD COSGROVE 66 TARANAKI
68 WELLINGTON
38 19 FISHING DO’S AND DON’TS 72 NELSON/MARLBOROUGH
ADAM ROYTER
78 WEST COAST
84 A NEW ROAD TO SEA-RUN 82 NORTH CANTERBURY
SALMON RECOVERY 87 CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
MARK WEBB
90 OTAGO
96 SOUTHLAND
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 5
CHIEF EXECUTIVE COMMENT
FISH & GAME~
30 YEARS OLD
FISH & GAME AS AN ORGANISATION IS Internally, we face financial challenges.
ALMOST THIRTY YEARS OLD. Over that Our five year financial modelling indicates
period we’ve had a significant impact we can’t just keep increasing license
on New Zealand through the proactive fees to meet cost increases – and yet
positions we’ve taken on Water we also know that increasing the fee by
Conservation Orders and intensive even $3 per year (or $15 over five years)
farming pollution. will not produce enough to cover our
All in all, being successful for the next thirty years will
only be possible if all governors, staff, anglers and hunters
accept that change is inevitable and work together
proactively to respond to all the challenges we face.
Without Fish & Game there would not expenses. So it’s clear we need to get a
be the present high level of focus on handle on these costs, as well as focus on
cleaning up our rivers, lakes and streams. identifying new sources of income. We
Without Fish & Game there would not be owe that to our anglers and hunters. As
an overwhelming level of public support an organisation we need to become more
for Government regulations to start efficient and effective.
reversing the sad state of some of our We also have to be mindful that in our
waterways. Across the organisation those role as a regulator of a public resource
governors who supported this approach, the Government expects us to be efficient
and their CEO Bryce Johnson, have an and effective. This means that our costs
environmental legacy to be proud of. have to be demonstrably reasonable so
In 2019 Fish & Game knows that that licence prices are kept to a minimum.
the next thirty years are going Collectively these challenges –
to be just as challenging as the environmental, societal, and financial
last thirty, but we hope that by – are significant. But each can be
2050 all those lowland rivers addressed, and each does provide
in both islands which have been an opportunity if, and only if, we’re
destroyed by intensive farming will have proactive in our response and we start
recovered. that response now. If we’re not proactive,
But over those thirty years we will also and we don’t plan and respond to these
have to deal with a warming climate, known challenges then Fish & Game will
and the impact this may have on water decline and lose relevance.
temperature, and the distribution of All in all, being successful for the next
ABOVE: trout and salmon; it’s probably fair to say thirty years will only be possible if all
FISH & GAME NZ CE, MARTIN TAYLOR
things will change. In addition, we will governors, staff, anglers and hunters
have to respond to societal changes and accept that change is inevitable and work
the way younger generations consume together proactively to respond to all the
goods and services, and their approach challenges we face. The good news is that
to recreation. Perhaps the buying of a the current NZ Council understands the
full-season licence and being posted a situation and accepts that success over the
facebook.com/FishandGameNZ
single-use plastic card will be replaced next thirty years will begin with the work
@fishandgamenz with digital day licences purchased on a we do in the next few years to meet the
https://fishandgame.org.nz smart phone. challenges we know the future holds.
twitter.com/fishandgamenz
MARTIN TAYLOR, Chief Executive, NZ Fish & Game Council
6 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND
NEWS
Conservation CAWTHRON AND
PROFESSIONAL FISHING
(Indigenous Freshwater Fish) GUIDES TOGETHER AGAIN
Bill Update TO SUPPORT TROUT AND
SALMON RESEARCH
Members of the NZ Professional Fishing
Guides Association (NZPFGA) have made
generous donations to the Cawthron
Institute’s Freshwater Fisheries Fund,
which was set up to support long-term
trout and salmon research – to counter
the fact that salmonid research funding
in New Zealand has hit an all-time low.
Association members have also offered
to assist the Cawthron Institute with
environmental data collection, and will
be encouraging their clients to give back
to the resource through donating to the
Freshwater Fisheries Fund.
Cawthron is working with the NZPFGA
and Fish & Game to plan how the guides’
donations will have the greatest benefit.
Most likely, the first project to be funded
will be a Master’s research scholarship,
to investigate trout habitat management
in our front country rivers. Such a project
will create knowledge while upskilling a
New Zealander in evidence-based trout
fishery management. This initiative is
partly the brainchild of Tony Entwistle,
Just a quick note to update you on the resource consents and Regional Plans, and picks up from a historical partnership
Conservation (Indigenous Freshwater and exposing intensive agriculture's between Cawthron and the NZPFGA.
Fish) Bill which has reported back from adverse environmental effects. This Twenty-odd years ago the NZPFGA
Parliament's Environment Committee. has benefited all fish in New Zealand's were one of several key parties that
Like you, Fish & Game had some freshwaters. successfully convinced the government
serious concerns when this Bill was Fish & Game were concerned that to fund a Cawthron study on the impact
introduced into Parliament. However, I am the Bill would, among other things, give of tourism on the sustainability of trout
very pleased to report that the Bill is now freshwater management plans priority over fisheries. The outputs from that research
in a much better shape that Fish & Game Fish & Game plans; alter restrictions on the are still being used in the Environment
New Zealand can now support! taking, possessing or selling of sports fish Court to argue against developing
By working with the Select Committee under Treaty settlements; and reduce Fish backcountry fisheries.
and the Department of Conservation, we & Game's right to be consulted over the This initiative is seen as the start of
have addressed most of the potentially introduction or release of fish. something bigger; the vision is that
negative impacts on Fish & Game's Thanks to Fish & Game’s strong philanthropic funding will support long-
interests and the sports fishery we advocacy, two of the three concerns term trout research in New Zealand.
manage on behalf of all New Zealanders. have been removed from the Bill. While The Freshwater Fisheries Fund is for
Fish & Game shares the goal of the Treaty clause has remained, we are anyone who wants to support research
protecting and promoting indigenous confident that with further advocacy; this to protect New Zealand’s unique trout
freshwater fish conservation. New clause will not impact on our sports fishery fisheries for generations to come. To find
Zealand's indigenous fish would be far in the future. out more – or to donate, go to:
worse off if Fish & Game did not advocate We committed to delivering on our
vigorously for freshwater fish habitat over statutory goal of managing the sports www.cawthron.
the last 20 years. fishery for the benefit of all New org.nz/
Fish & Game has bought, built and Zealanders, now and into the future so foundation/
restored many wetlands. We have spent you, your children and their children can donating-
millions of dollars fighting for and continue to catch a fish. freshwater-
winning Water Conservation Orders, The Select Committee report can be ecology-and-
fisheries-research/
opposing environmentally hostile read on the Parliament website.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 7
SPECIAL FEATURE
Lowland River Lowdown
THE OBNOXIOUS SOUND OF THE ALARM attention for backdrops to his Lord of the
ANTON DONALDSON Story & Photos clock fills the air with an ear-piercing Rings series, they still have their Shire-like
screech. A drowsy glance reveals it is beauty. What they lack in beech forest and
8.30am. granite boulders they make up for in good
Consciousness kicks in, and the numbers of willing, healthy trout.
realization that it’s finally a day off begins The influx of anglers, both international
“No three-hour hike to set in. What better way to enjoy a day and local, along with guides, have seen
from a busy period of guiding than to our backcountry fisheries become busy
or helicopter flight spend it fishing? to a point where it’s only the top echelon
is required to visit Thoughts of where to fish on this of skilled anglers who can expect success
glorious sunny March day begin to regularly. We are at a point where we
a lowland river; flood through my pre-fishing cortex. An need to look at how to manage these
8.30am start for me is very gentlemanly fragile fisheries so that everyone benefits.
most of them are and I instantly know that I have missed Lowland fisheries are a fantastic
in fertile valleys an opportunity to beat the crowds to alternative for anglers, though. They
any of the blue-ribbon backcountry offer many of the features that trout
and almost always fisheries today – but this is a prime fishers desire. Ease of access is a huge
opportunity to take advantage of our plus when it comes to people like me,
have a conveniently- wonderful lowland rivers. who love a sleep-in. No three-hour hike
placed road running The northern half of the South Island – or helicopter flight is required to visit
and indeed all of New Zealand – is blessed a lowland river; most of them are in
alongside.” with many kilometres of trout-infested fertile valleys and almost always have
lowland waterways, and while these rivers a conveniently-placed road running
may not have caught Sir Peter Jackson’s alongside. Bridges and reserves are
8 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND
LOWLAND RIVER FISHING
already publicly accessible and, as these large bodies of water are bluebird FAR LEFT:
for the rest, most land owners in New days with little or no wind. With the sun LOWLAND TROUT ARE WELL WORTH
Zealand are more than happy to grant high in the sky between 10am and 3pm, THE ADMIRATION
access to anyone who’s prepared to ask spotting fish is done relatively easily by
permission and respect the rules. careful anglers. BELOW TOP:
These rivers are often near to town Knowing where to find fish is a huge A FISH TO THE NET THAT CAME AS A
RESULT OF A DRAG FREE DRIFT
BELOW BOTTOM:
“Sight fishing is what sets us apart from other angling
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BRAID CAN BE
destinations around the world. Our clear water and THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUCCESS
AND FAILURE
larger-than-average fish allow us to see all the action.”
and offer a great chance to take the
family along to give them their first taste
of angling, or even just to enjoy a nice
picnic while the family fishers do their
thing. A great aspect of these bigger
rivers is that they can quite often be
fished with spinning gear and sometimes
even with a live bait. This is a fantastic
way to get children involved in trout
fishing. No need to be an athlete to fish
the lowland either; large rocks and bush
excursions are at a minimum.
A major attraction of these lowland
fisheries is their high number of fish. In
the backcountry we are often targeting
low numbers of mostly large residential
trout. These fish are sometimes
hundreds of metres apart over rough
terrain and are almost always hard to
tempt during the peak of the season.
The lowland rivers on the other hand are
often so large that a good number of fish
never see a fly all season.
Negative angler encounters are almost
non-existent, too. There’s so much water
it’s a simple case of moving to a new
spot, or crossing to the other side to keep
both parties happy.
So, there are many positives to fishing
the large lowland rivers ... but in order to
reap the benefits one must know how to
fish big water successfully.
Approaching a large river can be
daunting for a lot of anglers. With all
that water to cover it can be hard to
know where to start. All methods can be
successful but choosing the right technique
at the right time will change the game. In
my business as a guide I offer sight fishing
almost exclusively to my clients.
Sight fishing is what sets us apart from
other angling destinations around the
world. Our clear water and larger-than-
average fish allow us to see all the action.
So, the ideal conditions for sight fishing
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 9
SPECIAL FEATURE
are holding deep, or not able to be seen,
then I casually walk by, giving the water a
cursory glance for easy opportunities.
In high flows or high water temperatures,
target areas where small streams flow in.
These can provide cool, clear water where
trout should move into to feed during these
sub optimal conditions.
Fishing braided rivers is another matter
– it can sometimes come down to picking
the right braid. Look for older, more-
established braids: the algae on the rocks
will be a clue. Newly-formed braid has
little or no algae and, more importantly,
a lack of established insect populations.
Also, as you look upstream from the
junction, look out for any areas where a
channel may run up against a permanent
bank. Fish need cover during high flows
and permanent banks provide this.
Matching the hatch in the lowland
rivers can be important. Observation is
king here. If the fish are rising pay close
attention to what is on, or in, the surface
film. If you feel you’re getting the pattern
and size right then, as with all fishing in
New Zealand, examine your drift. With
dry flies maybe bring the distance you
cast your fly above your target back to a
couple of feet – the fly only has to drift
advantage here. There are certain places naturally during the time the fish can see
“Leave the stress of trout are more likely to be. These places it. Over-leading a trout gives the fly every
could be in front of prominent rocks; in the chance to drag before it reaches the fish.
negative angler seams of currents between fast and slower Generally when nymphing the bigger
water; in the eyes of pools – and anywhere rivers you’ll be looking at smaller caddis
encounters and tough else that a feature in the water creates a and mayfly nymphs. On days where I’m
fish behind ... get out softer pocket of water near to a fast piece ‘imagination fishing’ I like to fish a tandem
of river that will be bringing the fish food. nymph rig with one of each, just so I can
there and enjoy fishing On these sunny days these areas should be work out the flavour of the day.
inspected carefully. Conversely, on gloomy, There is much to love in regard to our
our lowland rivers!” cloudy days these places should still be lowland rivers. These are our bread and
inspected – not so much by eye this time, butter fisheries and need to be protected
but with careful prospecting casts. Rather and nurtured just as much as do our
than the term ‘blind fishing’ we should backcountry rivers. We’re seeing dramatic
incorporate the term ‘imagination fishing’. changes to our lowland waterways in
On cloudy days where the surface of terms of water quality, due to negative
the water is covered with glare I like to human interactions and extreme weather
move out into the water and use the events – but one of the biggest things
dark bankside vegetation as a backdrop we can do as fishers in their ongoing
to spot against (wading needs to be protection is to fish them. The more of
done very quietly in this situation). It us there are spending time on these
pays to look at the water as two rivers; waterways, the more voices these rivers
fish each half thoroughly, rather than will have protecting them against dubious
try to cover all the water poorly. Brown local and central government decisions.
trout in particular will prefer the quieter If we don’t use them we’ll lose them!
flows nearer the edge, in the main. So leave the stress of negative angler
ABOVE: I place little emphasis on fishing the encounters and tough fish behind ... get
GLOOMY DAYS OFTEN REQUIRE pools while fly fishing. If there’s a hatch out there and enjoy fishing our lowland
IMAGINATIVE FISHING TACTICS on then that’s a different story but if fish rivers!
10 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALANDSPECIAL FEATURE
Release
CHRIS BELL Story & Photos
THE CAREFUL CARE AND HANDLING OF TROUT into the habit of doing this and you’ll lose fewer ABOVE: A CHUNKY “MOUSE”
TO GIVE THEM THE BEST CHANCE OF SURVIVAL fish! Using strong tippets should reduce the time FISH BEING CAREFULLY
is something I’m very passionate about, and I it takes to land a fish, resulting in less stress and SUPPORTED UNDER
don’t see it discussed as much as it should be! I exhaustion for the trout. THE PECTORAL FIN AND
have been fortunate enough to study and work HEAD REGION TO AVOID
with trout, salmon and many different species BARBED VERSUS BARBLESS HOOKS. POTENTIALLY HARMFUL
of New Zealand native fish for the last 24 years, The use of barbless or crushed barb hooks PRESSURE ON THE MORE
during which time I have often been able to to allow for quick, safe, fly removal can only be SENSITIVE BELLY AREA.
monitor and assess different handling methods positive for the fish. It’s sometimes claimed that Photo credit: Sam Harrison
and their short and long-term effects on fish. barbless hooks penetrate further than barbed
The theory that trout are as tough as old hooks and therefore inflict more damage to the
boots isn’t quite true. They do put up with fish, but I’ve never seen any evidence of this.
some extreme environmental stresses including Apparently some barbless hooks in the 1980’s
flooding, warm water/low oxygen, predation, were found to cause damage to some trout’s
and sometimes intense competition, but like any jaws by penetrating the bony structure, but that
animal they have their limits, and sometimes doesn’t seem to happen with the more modern
even just a second or two of careless handling designs. Interestingly, crushed barbed hooks are
while being played or in the landing/release often considered better than barbless, as they are
process, can lead to a distressing end for one of easily removed and usually don’t penetrate as far
these beautiful creatures. Ultimately we want to as pure barbless hooks. It only takes a second to
know that when the fish swims off it will have crush a barb to possibly make a difference!
the best chance of survival, and we should all Quite often I find my fly will have fallen out
be working to reduce the factors that can have a of the trout’s mouth in the landing net prior to
negative impact on this. me manually removing it, and yet the reduction
in landing rates is negligible compared to using "The use of
SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR HELPING REDUCE HARM barbed hooks. More important however is that
TO TROUT WHEN BEING CAUGHT AND RELEASED: if a fish breaks the leader, we can feel confident
barbless or
USE STRONG TIPPETS. that it will likely shed the hook before the crushed barb
Use as strong a tippet as possible which cannot leader becomes tethered. Admittedly, a barbed
be detected by the fish or negatively affect the hook will, over time, either fall out or rust out hooks to allow
natural presentation of the fly, and check tippet of a trout’s mouth – but this will take much
condition constantly when fishing to avoid longer, putting the fish at greater risk. My own
for quick, safe,
prolonged fights and the possible snapping-off experiments found that bronzed fly hooks left fly removal can
of fly and tippet on a lost fish. Before casting in water for up to a month didn’t rust, although
to a sighted fish I always go through a routine it’s likely that different water chemistry, varied only be positive
of testing every knot, and running my fingers dissolved oxygen levels, and particular fish’s
through the terminal tippet material to make sure blood enzymes would likely influence the
for the fish."
that there are no weaknesses or damage. Get oxidation of the steel differently. For this reason
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 11SPECIAL FEATURE
ABOVE: I suspect that the popular theory that but the most important factor is that
IF YOU CHOOSE TO HANDLE FISH lost flies will rust out of a trout’s mouth you’ll notice more protective mucous
WITH GLOVES MAKE SURE YOU FULLY relatively quickly is pretty inaccurate. membrane is removed from the trout’s
SATURATE THE GLOVE MATERIAL FOR This view is strengthened by several skin onto even pre-wet gloves, compared
SEVERAL SECONDS BEFORE TOUCHING studies which have scientifically tested to pre-wet hands. The protective
THE FISH’S SKIN. THIS WILL HELP hook retention in brook trout and other mucous membrane is the fish’s natural
REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF PROTECTIVE fish species including bass, in which very defence against the growth of unwanted
MUCUS REMOVED. high rates of hook retention (70-80%) pathogens/fungus on its skin, and it also
were found to occur – for periods of in some instances helps to maintain the
up to 120 days. One of these studies constant internal environment within the
also highlighted that significantly less fish. Although this layer can be replaced
bleeding was caused by barbless hooks by the fish, even temporary removal
compared to barbed hooks. of parts of it can allow the unwanted
The use of single barbless flies is growth of fungus. I have watched a 15 lb
particularly desirable in waters where trout slowly meet its end after just a few
snags and abundant tree root cover exist, moments of careless handling, as fungus
in order to improve the likelihood of a grew from the areas which had been
lost fish’s survival. Snapped-off fish will in contact with a person. The fact that
often head for the security of cover, and scientists I have worked with over the
the trailing fly of a double hook rig can years have seemed invariably to prefer
entangle in tree roots or other hazards – a the use of pre-wet hands to gloves, surely
situation that could very well be fatal. adds strength to the argument!
GLOVES OR BARE HANDS. PRE-SATURATE SUN GLOVES.
There has always been the big debate If you choose to wear gloves when
on whether it’s better to use gloves/ handling fish, saturate them well in
pantyhose or bare hands when handling advance. When dry, the open porous
fish. There’s no question that you’ll have weave of the usual nylon material will
a better grip on the fish using gloves, absorb the protective membrane of the
12 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALANDHOW TO ...
fish while the glove’s absorbing water KEEP FISH CLOSE TO THE WATER WHEN
for the seconds after immersion, and LIFTED FOR A PHOTO.
if you compare the two surfaces after It’s good practice to keep fish close to
releasing a fish, gloves will be much the water when taking a photo, just in case
slimier compared to wet hands. I make a the angler accidentally drops it. It usually
habit of wetting my hands while playing makes for a much “sexier” natural photo
a trout prior to the actual netting of the as well, which will be respected by other
fish, as on many occasions I’ve seen anglers! The “Keep ‘em Wet” movement
dry-handed anglers grab excitedly for can also only be positive for those anglers
a floundering fish’s tail to help direct it who are happy to have a photo of the fish
into a net prior to wetting their gloves, in the water, as opposed to the common
very likely causing increased loss of the out-of-the-water “grip and grin” shot.
protective membrane. The pre-wetting of
gloves and hands is also very important AVOID BEACHING FISH ON DRY, SHARP
to cool down the surfaces coming in OR HARD SURFACES.
contact with the fish. Avoid beaching a fish on sharp rocks
or any uneven/rough surface, and make
AVOID PROLONGED HOLDING IN ONE sure the surface is already wet. If the
LOCATION. fish is not fully tired it can flap around
Try to avoid holding onto the same part aggressively, resulting in sometimes
of the fish (e.g. tail) for extended periods harmful damage to itself.
without slightly reducing your grip every
20 seconds or so to allow fresh cooling ALLOW TIME FOR A GOOD BLOOD CLOT
water to surround the fish’s skin. This is SET IF A LANDED FISH IS BLEEDING.
especially important when handling fish Remove the fly quickly and leave the fish
with bare hands. in the net in a quiet flow area if possible,
to allow the bleeding to clot (sometimes
PRE-WET LANDING NET MESH. up to 4 minutes in my experience); then
Try to pre-wet the landing net mesh keep it in the net for at least another
prior to landing a fish; this will both 2 minutes, to ensure a good clot hold
soften and cool down the net mesh at the site of the wound. We want to
material that will come in contact with prevent a sensitive clot from being
the trout prior to landing. Black plastic dislodged due to a premature release
mesh exposed to direct sunlight while as this will be detrimental to the fish’s
fishing can sometimes get quite hot, and survival. Don’t be too alarmed by the
will take several seconds to cool down bleeding; a little blood can look like
when submerged in the water! a lot and always appears to come
Knotless mesh is definitely much from the gills, due to the respiratory
better for the fish, and the newer water flow. In my experience there is
plastic-coated/rubberised mesh even hope for fish that are bleeding
absorbs less protective mucous significantly – most bleeding will clot
membrane than the common green and the fish will swim away.
nylon type. Nets produced with coarse By letting it go carefully there is at
mesh are harder to hold in fast-flowing least a chance of survival!
water; however, the older finer green TOP:
knotless mesh entangles the jaws CHOOSE A SAFE RELEASE LOCATION. A CRACKER FISH READY TO BE RELEASED
of some fish (especially jacks) more In a moving water environment always AFTER A FEW SHORT SECONDS OUT OF
easily, resulting in complications when try to release your catch out of the THE WATER FOR A QUICK PHOTOGRAPH
releasing a fish. The entanglement of heavy flow, especially if it’s had a long
the trout’s maxillae is also much more hard fight, or has experienced increased MIDDLE:
likely in the finer green mesh with the physiological stress. A quiet edge can ACTION STATIONS; A STRONG BROWN
wider gaps, possibly tearing this part be good enough, but a larger quiet area PUTS A NICE BEND IN THE ROD ON A
of the fish’s jaw. In such situations it’s nearby can provide even better recovery VERY MEMORABLE DAY IN WESTLAND
always good to untangle the jaw and odds. If the fish is exhausted and
maxillae before lifting the fish, and to turbulent water is present at the release BOTTOM:
lay the fish flat in the bottom of the location, try removing all your gear to a AN ADVENTURE INTO THE UNKNOWN,
net bag to avoid excessive bending location further downstream, and then EXPLORING NEW WATER. ANTICIPATING
of its body when being lifted. This is slowly release the fish in quieter edge WHAT AWAITS AROUND THE NEXT
especially important with larger/heavier water where it will hopefully sit and rest. CORNER KEEPS THINGS EXCITING!
fish in “mousey” condition. If you then back off out of view behind
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 13SPECIAL FEATURE
the fish in its blindspot, you and your the camera ready and get the angler to sure not to allow fingers to enter
gear won’t be seen by the fish again, remove their catch from the water for the sensitive internal gill area, or
thus preventing it being scared into the only 5 seconds at a time, before placing come in contact with the eyes. This
surrounding rough water, before it’s it back in the net to get some oxygen. is especially important with larger
made a good recovery. The fish should then be allowed at least overweight fish such as those showing
another 15-20 seconds of breathing “mousey” condition where, when
REMOVE FLIES WITH THE FISH’S GILLS IN time before being lifted again if a removed from the neutral buoyancy
THE WATER. second photo opportunity is necessary. water environment, all the fish’s weight
Remember these fish have just been A fish being admired by an angler while may be point-loaded on the sensitive
fighting for their lives and are likely beads of water drip off its body makes internal organs if held further back
exhausted, just like us having run a for a stunning photo, showing that the in the stomach area, away from the
marathon. After a fight, if a trout is fish has only briefly been removed from strengthened pectoral/bony region of
removed from the water for excessive the water. With modern technology the fish.
periods not only can they not get the it’s possible to get multiple rapid-fire
essential oxygen they need, but also photos of the trout as it’s lifted from REMOVING FLIES CAN BE EASIER WHEN
metabolic nitrogenous wastes which the net and released; alternatively, a THE FISH IS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN.
would normally be excreted into the quick video of the release may be your When removing the fly turn the trout
water via their gill membranes then build preference. upside down in the net by holding its tail.
up in the blood, essentially resulting in Inverting the fish will cause it to go into
blood poisoning. The fish may swim off AVOID LIFTING FISH VERTICALLY JUST a state of tonic immobility, a “mellowed
and appear fine, only to die perhaps a few FROM THE TAIL. out” state, like that exhibited with sharks
hours later, due to its having been held Lifting the fish by its tail means all in many wildlife documentaries. Placing a
out of the water for too long! its weight is transferred through the fish in this position will reduce its activity,
spine. With heavier fish – perhaps 5lb thus making fish handling and fly removal
THINK “GILLS IN THE WATER AT ALL and larger – the vertebrae can partially much easier.
TIMES!” dislocate because of the increased
Only remove a fish from the water for weight stress involved. LIMIT SQUEEZING OR LARGE AMOUNTS
short periods when taking photographs. Instead, hold the tail and support OF PRESSURE WHEN HOLDING A FISH.
I aim at only having a trout out of the fish under the pectoral girdle/ Hold the trout’s tail reasonably firmly,
the water for 5 second intervals. I have the head operculum area, making without excessive pressure to cause
14 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALANDHOW TO ...
"Inverting the fish will cause it to go into a state of tonic immobility, a “mellowed
out” state, like that exhibited with sharks in many wildlife documentaries, resulting
in significantly reduced activity making fish handling and fly removal much easier"
bruising, but don’t squeeze the fish further from having to be lifted from the water condition-related factor.
forward of the tail. Its gills and eyes are its into a boat for easier removal of a fly. I hope that this information will prove
least protected and most sensitive areas helpful, and will perhaps provide some
which should be carefully avoided, with OTHER THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN OUT good topics for discussion when you
certainly no pressure or squeezing. The ON THE WATER: and your fellow anglers are next out
fish can be supported just using the on the water. These views are based
fingertips up under the pectoral fins IF POSSIBLE, AVOID FISHING WATER on my observations and research and
or head. This will also produce a more WARMER THAN 20°. ultimately my aim with writing this
stunning photograph, with no clumsy The warmer water will contain less article is that more fish will swim away
fingers masking the beautiful flank of a dissolved oxygen and played fish can and have the best chance of survival
trophy fish. be put under extreme stresses in such after being released.
conditions.
FLOATING LANDING NETS REPRESENT
EXCELLENT FLOATING CAGES. DON’T ALWAYS AIM TO CATCH EVERY
Although not every angler’s FISH YOU SEE. ABOVE:
preference, a wooden net anchored If you and your companions have THE SOUTH ISLAND BACKCOUNTRY
to the stream bottom of slow-flowing already had a good day, don’t over- ON AN EPIC WEATHER DAY
water using an attached nylon strap pressure the fishery by continuing to
acts as an excellent floating cage to catch every trout you see. Maybe this FAR LEFT:
securely hold a landed fish. The floating is a good opportunity to check out an KEEP FISH CLOSE TO THE WATER’S
frame of the net doesn’t collapse over alternative location. SURFACE WHEN LIFTED FROM THE
a netted trout like other sinking net WATER TO TAKE A PHOTOGRAPH
types, which can sometimes restrict IF A FISH APPEARS TO BE IN POOR AND, WHERE POSSIBLE, CHOOSE A
gill breathing movements. They’re also CONDITION, OR STRESSED IN SOME WAY, LOCATION WITH ENOUGH WATER
ideal for use in boat fishing situations MAYBE LEAVE IT ALONE AND TRY TO FIND DEPTH BELOW WHERE THE FISH IS
where the net can be allowed to float OTHER “HAPPIER” FISH. BEING HELD, TO HELP PROTECT IT
in the water securely holding a landed Often darker-coloured fish sitting in FROM HITTING A HARD SURFACE IF
trout, making the handling and release the quieter edges are showing signs of ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED
of the fish a much easier two handed stress, perhaps due to being previously
procedure. This further prevents a fish caught, or some other environmental or
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 15SPECIAL FEATURE
Going with the Flow
FISHING WITH SOFTBAITS IN RIVERS AND STREAMS
Story: ADRIAN BELL
PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL
SOFTBAITS, FORMULATED IN THE LATE I started fishing there for escapee A light and
1950S AND EARLY 60S FOR CATCHING salmon with softbaits late in the
flexible graphite rod is
BASS IN FRESHWATER, have been June of 2012. The technologies and
through many developments, leading to techniques that emerged from that essential, both for distance
the huge range of variants available on two-day quest and subsequent trips
the market today. In the introduction to would later be extended to softbaiting casting with light jig heads
his 2007 book Fishing with Soft Plastics for trout in lakes and rivers – well
and for subsequent bite
in New Zealand, John Eichelsheim writes away from the canal context. I was
“Soft plastics, softbaits, rubber tails accompanied by Ben Booth and my detection. But this was a
– call them what you like – they’re the brother Malcolm who had experienced
most exciting thing to hit fishing in New success in Ohau C earlier in the month, lesson I had to learn ‘out in
Zealand in a long time – perhaps ever.” and my learning curve was steep. My
the field’.
Judging by the less than two pages he reel had been lined with 8lb Fireline
has devoted to their use in freshwater, braid. One-and-a-half metres of 8lb
it’s apparent – at least in 2007 – that fluorocarbon had been knotted on.
fishing with softbaits was primarily a Once on location, a jig head of bait – typically shrimps or huhu grubs – is
saltwater phenomenon. Even the one a weight suitable for the current flow permitted, so the use of scented baits
photo of a freshwater fish contained in regime was tied on and a Berkley Gulp falls under that mantle.
the book, a Chinook salmon, was caught scented softbait attached. With names Braided line is preferred over nylon
in Otago Harbour. John concludes his such as Mouldy Cheese and Banana because of its better sink rate and bite
freshwater section by saying: “Softbaits Prawn, it’s obvious that the designers detection. When fishing with hard baits,
are probably the most lifelike lures so were not required to provide names a single hit signifies that a fish has struck,
far invented by the tackle industry and I that suggested the form and colour of but with softbaits investigative bites
have no doubt the list of species that fall the bait fish they were emulating. Made typically precede a committed take. So,
to them will continue to grow as their using water-based resins, Gulp baits rather than striking at the first bite, it’s
use expands” – prophetic words indeed. are soaked in – and can be ‘re-charged’ better to allow the fish to ‘come on’, such
There was a very good reason why their with – Gulp Alive, a scented solution that as when fishing for yellow-eyed mullet. A
use was about to expand in freshwater, attracts fish. Fish and Game councils have light and flexible graphite rod is essential,
and that is centred around a remarkable classified these as bait, which can be both for distance casting with light jig
fishing opportunity that is exclusive to used in about half of the waterways that heads and for subsequent bite detection.
the South Island – the canal fishery. they administer. At the canals the use of But this was a lesson I had to learn ‘out in
16 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALANDSOFTBAITING
the field’. Back then, Malcolm and I had
equipped ourselves with rods that fitted
the brief; however, failing to recognise
the need to deploy such a sensitive
rod, I had left mine back in his vehicle,
opting instead for a stiff, two-piece rod
that failed to register the subtle probings
of the salmon. Well how could it, when
the minimum casting weight of the rod PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL
was rated at ¼ oz and I was using jig
heads of either 1/16 or 1/12 oz? So, afraid
of being totally out-fished by my mates,
I hastened back to the truck to fetch the
rod I should have been using from the
start. As a result, I was able to cast further
and detect bites more easily, resulting
in the capture of several bright silver
salmon weighing between 7.5 and 11.7
pounds. Lesson learned.
As a result of the successful
deployment of softbaits in the canals,
PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL JNR
some freshwater anglers began asking
the question: why shouldn’t we use
them in areas where bait is not allowed?
Supporting arguments might have
involved the following points: while
scented, they are not actually bait per se.
‘Unscented’ softbaits (where oil is mixed
with melted PVC and poured into moulds)
are allowed in areas where spin fishing
is permitted, and some of those have
been infused with scent, so why can’t we
use Gulp baits? The Southland Fish and PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL
Game council heard the call and wrote
the regulation: “Scented artificial lures last a lot longer and can be stored easily
may be used in all waters other than in plastic boxes along with jig heads and
fly fishing only waters, when actively hard baits. That’s a big plus. UV-reflective PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL
fished so as to imitate a bait fish.” Note surfaces can be incorporated and a
the caveat at the end. What exactly does large range of tail types is available,
‘when actively fished so as to imitate from straight to aggressive paddle-tails. FAR LEFT: SOFTBAIT FISHING
a bait fish’ actually mean in practice? I’ve hardly used a scented bait since AFICIONADO, CHRIS WILLIAMS HOOKS
Before attempting to answer that discovering soft plastics. Maybe scent is AND LANDS A MAGNIFICENT
question, it’s advisable to look at the pros not as important as we’d thought. BACK-COUNTRY BROWN
and cons of each category of softbait. It is informative to compare the
Gulp baits are biodegradable - that’s a different interactions between fishing ABOVE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
plus; however, they must be kept moist technique and flow. One could place MARCUS RELEASES A RAINBOW CAUGHT
or they will dry to a crisp. Also, Gulp Alive those techniques on a continuum ON SOFTBAIT IN LAKE GRASMERE;
can leak from storage containers, with between drifters (that move with the IT SEEMS THAT TROUT WILL TAKE A
malodorous consequences for formerly flow) and opposers (that move against SOFTBAIT MORE READILY THAN A HARD
pristine fishing gear. After my mate Wyatt the flow). Most dry fly, small wet fly BAIT IN BRIGHT SUNLIGHT.
introduced me to unscented plastic baits, and nymph fishing techniques occupy
I was impressed by their verisimilitude, the drifters’ end, while streamer MIKE WAS USING A ⅛ OZ JIG HEAD TO
their texture and resilience. If they are fly, and some dry fly and nymphing GET DOWN TO WHERE THIS RAINBOW
infused with scent, this is subtle enough techniques lie closer to the opposers’ WAS LYING.
to define them as ‘unscented’. Where end, with hard bait and popper fishing
scent is incorporated into PVC baits, it is methods occupying that extreme. So THIS RAINBOW WAS UNABLE TO RESIST A
meant to be released when a fish bites where would we place softbaits on NOEBY SOFTBAIT.
on it. Additionally, the colours and colour that continuum? The answer to that
combinations of plastic baits are superior question will have implications for the LANDING A RAINBOW ON A NOEBY
to those found in resinous softbaits. They way we fish softbaits in current. SOFTBAIT.
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 17SPECIAL FEATURE
Our modus operandi when fishing the
PHOTO: BEN BOOTH
Ohau C canal was to cast our softbaits
well out, as close as possible to the
downstream edge of a farm net holding
salmon. Then we tried to let them sink on
the same trajectory as the pellets exiting
the salmon nets, mending our lines to
keep in touch with our terminal tackle.
When the flow was very slow, we would
watch for a slight lift in the line and strike
then. So much for the drifting phase. As
the bait entered shallow water, it was
retrieved. Bites could occur as it sank,
drifted, or was wound in. In the canals, at
least, softbait fishing could be classified
as belonging in the ‘drifters’ end of the
continuum. Surfacing snails, as well as
ABOVE: pellets, drift in the current so it figures that
MALCOLM KEEPS PRESSURE ON A a drifting presentation would work there.
WILDERNESS TROUT THAT TOOK HIS One morning I modified my technique
SOFTBAIT when seeing a trout rise. After casting
above the fish, I gave the handle a couple
RIGHT: of rapid winds then changed to a slower
CHRIS WITH A TROPHY-SIZED retrieve. That’s when the large trout
BROWN CAUGHT ON SOFTBAIT absolutely smoked the softbait! While a
hard bait may have caught the same fish,
INSET & BELOW: it’s a mistake to see a softbait as being
WHEN YOU LOOK AT THE STATE OF just another form of spinning bait.
THE JIG HEAD THAT HE CAUGHT IT Away from the canals, it was time
ON, CHRIS IS FORTUNATE HE’S ABLE to take the technology to lakes. After
TO RELEASE THIS BROWN! targeting a drop-off along the edge of an
inflowing stream the softbait is allowed
to sink before being retrieved very
slowly and jerkily. It has been gratifying
PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL
to realise that softbaits have the edge
over hard baits in bright sunlight – at
least in lakes. It was time to take
the technique to rivers and streams.
Here, away from the relative
homogeneity of the canals, the
ability to read water and know how
to fish it is paramount.
By way of comparison it’s helpful
to observe what happens to a hard
M BELL
MALCOL
PHOTO: bait when it opposes the current;
the floating Rapala X-rap serves
as a good example. It’s typically cast
at an angle upstream. For it to sink and
wobble, it has to be retrieved faster than
the current then, as it starts to swing, the
retrieval rate can slow in proportion to
the increasing effect of the current as the
hard bait arcs into a more downstream
position. The carefully designed bib,
PHOTO: MALCOLM BELL
being solid, opposes the current, causing
the hard bait to sink and wobble, and the
ball bearings to rattle. This is what makes
hard baits so effective in coloured water.
But what happens when a softbait is
cast upstream?
18 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALANDSOFTBAITING
One with a paddle-tail is recommended that he targets. So much depends upon
for river fishing. As the weight of the jig his understanding of the depth and
head is what determines the sink rate, velocity of water, the type of substrate,
After casting
it can be fished either with a dead drift the presence or absence of large rocks above the fish, I gave
or very slightly faster than the current. or other obstructions, drop-offs, pockets,
Even during a dead drift, the paddle-tail braid entries, proximity to the sea, tidal the handle a couple of
will move. As it drifts or swings in the influences. There is much to learn.
current, the same effects of flow that My first capture of a stream-caught
rapid winds then changed to a
influenced the hard bait are brought to trout on softbait occurred on a local slower retrieve. That is when
bear on the softbait. However, instead stream; my neighbour Marcus had told
of the whole bait moving, it is primarily me that he’d had success there fishing the large trout absolutely
the tail that moves. It is like the stealth the rising tide with softbaits. When he
bomber of the underwater world, where found me a trout, which was parked
smoked the softbait!
the only sound made is when it hits in a small bay surrounded by willow
the bottom. As paddle-tails fall into the branches, I cast a grey-clear paddle-
unscented category, the Southland caveat tailed softbait just short of its nose. fly-fishing, the identification of these
hardly applies, but if a scented bait were I’d hardly begun the retrieve when the lies can either reveal a sighted fish,
to be used, it is obvious that it would brownie struck – too easy. Usually there’s or simply a spot where one might be.
resemble a bait fish for at least some of more to it. In his softbait schools, my Accurate casting in line with the fish or
its trajectory. brother emphasises the reasons why a structure is a must, with an appropriate
Just as some fly fishermen are more trout chooses to occupy a particular lie: ‘lead’ given – just as for fly fishing. The
successful than others, such is the case namely for the cover it provides and the Goldilocks problem applies to mending.
with softbait anglers. A truly successful opportunities for predation that it affords. Too much and you will compromise the
practitioner will have at his fingertips all So he’s looking for the same structures drifting phase; not enough and bites
of the elements of managing drift, sink- that he would seek as a fly fisherman. won’t be detected.
rate, swing and retrieval, as well as the When confronted by big water, he The question arises: if the technique
appropriate weight of jig head and shape, concentrates on little spots out of the is similar to fly-fishing, why not leave
size and colour of softbait, and will know flow, the very shallow edges of riffles, the spinning rod at home and fish solely
how to adapt these to any stream or river corners, drop-offs and pockets. As with with fly gear? The answer lies with the
New Zealand’s finest luxury fly fishing lodge
Stylish accommodations, stunning food, superb service and outstanding fishing.
Murchison, South Island, New Zealand
T: +64 3 523 9075 E: info@owenriverlodge.co.nz
www.OwenRiverLodge.co.nz
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 19SPECIAL FEATURE
PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL PHOTO: ADRIAN BELL
LEFT: MALCOLM SUBDUES ANOTHER SEA-RUNNER IN THE TIDAL WATER
ABOVE: MALCOLM WITH HIS BEST SEA-RUN FISH OF THE DAY –
SOFTBAITING HAS PROVED ITS EFFECTIVENESS
So next time
you pack a threadline of the flow and positioned while wading across stream I caught and
himself so that he could cast a landed a larger fish. Then, when halting
rod into a favoured stream, paddle-tailed softbait on a 1/12 my retrieve to ensure that I hadn’t left
consider taking along a selection oz jig head upstream at about
45 degrees to the current
my net on the riverbank, another brown
snatched the softbait as it was drifting in
of softbaits and jig heads. You emanating from the stream, the current.
targeting the soft water on the The jury is out as to whether UV
may be surprised by how other side of the flow. Soon reflectivity enhances the attractiveness
he’d caught and released three of a softbait. However, in a Canadian
enjoyable and productive bright sea-runners. Then, using study, researchers found that ultraviolet-
the fishing is. his rod, I hooked and lost a sensitive cones are present in sexually
fish and had another follow mature adult salmonids, suggesting
up before Malcolm crossed that UV reflective surfaces in softbaits
the flow and caught a larger may be significant. A UV torch will
versatility of the technique, such as the trout further upstream. Later he caught reveal whether these are present or not.
ability to cast further, the greater ease of another in the lagoon. Later again, Another question to consider is whether
casting into a strong headwind, the ability however, the tide was down, and the fish trout are able to determine the potential
to drift a softbait under an obstruction had gone. softness of prey items using sonar. If
such as a willow branch, and the ability to Last March, when visiting our that were possible, it would help to
get down to where the fish are - quickly. I daughter’s family on the Motueka, I explain why softbaits are so successful.
was with Mike Donnelly when he caught caught a couple of browns on nymph, Whether packing a threadline rod
a fish that had been lying downstream then discovered that I’d left my rod bag to use in conjunction with a fly rod, or
of the deep pocket formed as a result at the bottom end of the beat I’d been deploying one exclusively, there are
of a braid entering the main current of fishing. Suspecting that the drop-off practical advantages in choosing to fish
the upper Rangitata. His softbait was that I’d observed extending on the with softbaits rather than hard baits.
attached to a 1/8 oz jig head, which angle across the river the previous day A softbait mounted on a jig head is a
enabled it to sink quickly. As soon as he might be a great spot to drift a softbait, cheaper prospect than a bibbed lure.
felt it touch the bottom, he began the I took the gear with me early the next The same jig head can be used again and
retrieve, and hooked a rainbow. morning when I went to retrieve the rod again with a variety of softbaits, meaning
Last year my brother and I checked bag. I’d attached a red/brown Sabile that continual knot-tying is not an issue.
out the bottom section of a small stream softbait to a 1/12 oz jig head. I like this Conversely, if conditions require a
whose egress to the sea was normally lure because its belly reflects UV light heavier or lighter jig head, it doesn’t take
blocked by a sand dune, but not this and it has a paddle tail. long to change. And the single hook is
time. I had unwisely left my softbait What happened next is indicative of easier on fish – particularly if you intend
gear in the truck, but Malcolm was ready why softbaits have the edge on hard to release them.
to capitalise on the opportunity that baits. Starting from the riverbank, I had So next time you pack a threadline
the breach had afforded us. The tide three casts, getting bites on each, before rod into a favoured stream, consider
was about ¾ full and dropping. Rather hooking up a fat little brown on the taking along a selection of softbaits and
than trying to cover all the water of the third. There wasn’t a lot of current, so jig heads. You may be surprised by how
lagoon, Malcolm determined the location the bites occurred on the swing. Later, enjoyable and productive the fishing is.
20 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALANDSPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 21
SPECIAL FEATURE Hitting the reset button My year as a non-resident 22 FISH & GAME NEW ZEALAND
HITTING THE RESET BUTTON
"I saw our fishery with new eyes;
I felt a renewed passion for it, accompanied by a desire
to see it protected for future generations." JACK KÓS - Story & Photos
IT’S COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT TROUT BUMS AROUND THE WORLD DREAM OF
VISITING NEW ZEALAND. Our crystal-clear water, large fish and spectacular scenery
make for a trout fishing destination that is envied and coveted everywhere.
NEW ZEALAND ANGLERS ARE FAMILIAR individuality that many New Zealand trout
WITH THE SEASONAL INFLUX OF NON- fisheries do. Fly shops would regularly
RESIDENT ANGLERS VISITING DURING have parties with kegs of local beer and
THE PEAK SUMMER MONTHS; a little a barbecue, and breweries would host fly
less common is the reverse flow - a Kiwi tying nights. In some instances specific
angler going to spend a year in the States rivers, such as the Henry’s Fork, have their
– fishing, hiking and just generally having own unique culture. Each year hundreds,
a little too much fun. But after finishing even thousands, of anglers gather to
my PhD that’s exactly what I did, basing celebrate the opening of Harrimans
myself in Missoula, Montana and roaming Ranch on the upper Henry’s Fork; there
as far as possible in search of fish. As are bonfires, parties, even charitable
an obsessive angler who has fished events to benefit the Henry’s Fork
extensively throughout New Zealand, I Foundation (an organisation dedicated
was curious as to how the North American to protecting the river). Overall the
fisheries would compare, and how my community dynamic among anglers was
experiences over there might shape my something New Zealand fishers could
views and understanding of the New learn from, as it really enhanced the
Zealand scene. angling experience.
What I discovered was that it was a While travelling I consciously chose
little like hitting the reset button: on not to chase bigger fish, knowing that
returning to New Zealand I saw our what many would consider a trophy
fishery with new eyes; I felt a renewed fish in Montana would qualify as just a
passion for it, accompanied by a desire to fairly typical New Zealand trout; instead
see it protected for future generations. I sought out what made these fisheries
special and unique.
Montana, Wyoming and Idaho The hatches were superb: varied and
The Western states of the United States flowing consistently from spring, through
(Montana, Wyoming and Idaho), much summer and into autumn. Mayflies of
like New Zealand, have a world-wide every conceivable variety, stoneflies
reputation as trout fishing destinations and salmonflies that rivalled cicadas for
of the highest quality. Fishing is a way size, and caddis in such densities that
of life here. you had to be consciously careful not to
While the fishing differed from New inhale them.
Zealand, and generally didn’t provide me I remember one particularly memorable
with quite the same depth of experience, spring session, fishing a large foam
the angling culture likely exceeded what stonefly in a blizzard to rising westslope
we have here. To a certain extent this is a cutthroat trout – not an experience I’m
reflection on scale: the sheer number of likely to ever recreate in New Zealand!
anglers in the United States, along with The variety of species of trout that could
higher density rivers that provide easier be targeted was fascinating, and you
access for beginners. would regularly encounter three or four
In other ways its fisheries don’t different varieties in one day. At times
necessarily engender the secrecy and you could almost choose what type of
SPECIAL ISSUE: FORTY-NINE 23You can also read
