Fantastic to be back on the rivers again, now that the new regular season has started in NZ. I quickly realized (after of course landing a couple of fish) that what I missed the most over the winter was the various aesthetics of being on the water. The sounds of nature, flow of the river, smells, cold feet ( yep, wet wading), just to name a few. Its a complete feeling of being at one with your surroundings & soaking up all that being in our outdoors has to offer. Yep the fishing was good, great actually. My chosen destinations so far have put me on low clear waterways, with water temps in the critical range for active insect and trout activity all day long. The mayfly hatches I have witnessed have, so far, been outstanding. The duns have been pouring off the water putting some of the trout into sustained periods of what can only be described as feeding frenzies. A size 14 deer hair sedge (no hackle) accounted for 95 % of my trout so far - no need for exact imitations as long as you have nailed the size, profile, and presentation. A couple of things worth noting. I tie these on a regular heavy gauge nymph hook (B175) & I put a small slighter post on mine in hi vis yellow (tiemco areo-wing) so i can see it easier in the bubble line or in a raft of naturals.
I decided to reluctantly read the news feed on social media last night & instantly regretted it. Lots of examples of poor fish handling, ego-driven hero shots, and at least half a dozen of my friends that encountered poor angling etiquette from others on their chosen streams. I certainly hope to hear less of this as the season progresses! All it takes is a quick respectful chat to ensure everyone can have a great day on the water.
Looking forward to seeing what the next few weeks bring - I have a mixture of personal fishing & some days with clients. Let the good times roll.
Cheers, Tom
thomas.j.mcauliffe@gmail.com
7.5lbs of green backed, yellow flanked brown trout