Welcome everyone to the Great Lake Taupo and its wonderful winter fishing!
If you haven’t been living under a rock, you would have noticed the continual wet conditions the area has experienced for the past twelve months. It has been an extended period of considerable river flow changes which has certainly affected fish behaviour in both the rivers and Lake.
As we write, Taupo is yet again in the middle of very wet period; not such a bad thing as long we can get some favourable winds. There were a few good days of sou-westers at the end of April to encourage a few early runs into the eastern rivers and streams which brought about some good reports from locals and visitors. We really do look forward to some cooler conditions as forecast weather patterns indicate. Into the month of May it has been so mild with above average temperatures (both air and water) so the cold fronts forecast will be very welcome.
Anybody who has been out on the rivers will have noted significant changes in flows and the landscape. The big Awa Tongariro has certainly had a hard time with record flows and dramatic changes to the lower braided sections. With all that action, there has still been awesome fishing for the first half of the year. Hard work from river users, the community and Tongariro River Rafting who have cleared many obstructions and flood debris is most appreciated.
So, to the important stuff like fly fishing on these rivers where you can experience so many different conditions within an hour’s drive. The Waitahanui has been fishing very well now for some time with early evening Browns a real target. Natural nymphs (some with Red Tungsten beads) and globugs have been the go-to in the middle reaches with lumo doll flies and streamers firing in the lower reaches. River mouth fishing with our traditional streamers (Buggers, Green Orbits and Rabbits) are always the way to go. Take care with your safety and awareness while fishing at these times and maybe have a mate along as company.
The Hinemaiaia is always a destination and the same pretty much applies to your fly selections but carry some extra beaded nymphs (red, orange, pink) to mix it up in the darker waters. Watch the rise and falls of the flow as water is released in these damp times. There are some added obstacles after high flows so have a good look around before that first cast.
The Tauranga Taupo has been experiencing continued coloured waters as the rain persists this year so it pays to cover some ground to find a good ‘seeing’ spot……the fish are there! Fill your box with some brighter nymphs with some bling to catch their attention. The river is certainly a little higher as a result of the rain so watch your step around the edges where the banks may be compromised.
Onto the great Awa…there is some much ground to cover in a day with so many varied conditions. Wherever you go, there will be fish with the lower reaches holding some in blocked braids as the waters subside. A stealthy approach and some fun is to be had. Naturals like the Hare’s Ear, Hare and Coppers, Copper Johns and Princes will be good to have in your arsenal. Globugs are having an impact and in the upper reaches (say, around the Blue Pool) you will have to be on your toes. Daydreaming is not allowed as you might just regret that moment of inattention. Again safety is paramount and watch your footing in and around the edges and when you cross.
Have a great month ahead and we will explore the western bays and rivers on a next report.
View More
Tell us and we'll let you know when we have it.