Otago’s high country fishing season has opened just in time for the weekend.

After rain showers in the Southern Lake tributaries yesterday on opening day (Friday November 1), the weather is likely to clear today (Saturday November 2), with above average river flows.

Otago Fish & Game officer Mason Court said one positive was the tributaries of the upper lakes tended to clear quickly, but they could also rise extremely fast, so anglers should exercise caution when crossing rivers.

Fish & Game staff recently completed drift drives to monitor fish populations in some of the high-country rivers in the Upper Clutha catchment.

While trout numbers appeared to be down, their overall condition and size was impressive.

“Some excellently conditioned rainbow trout and extra-large brown trout close to the magical 10lb trophy mark have been observed,” Mason said.

He said the drift dives showed large fish were often sitting where they could find shelter and a constant food source.

“These large fish often sit at the back of a pool or slow run. So, if conditions aren’t suitable for sight fishing, make sure to take time to blind-fish these areas.”

High-country dams and reservoirs such as the Upper Manorburn also opened at the start of November, offering another option if rivers become unfishable due to snowmelt or rain.

Mason said that due to the mixed weather forecast, anglers were likely to congregate around the favourable, fishable water.

“Leaving an intentions note on your vehicle can help to improve interactions, so everyone can share the water and not accidentally push in front of other anglers,” he said.

“If you meet another angler on the river, having a friendly chat is the best way to ensure each others’ plans are not disrupted and you can all enjoy your day.”

PHOTO: Jakub Kanok