Otago’s pristine high-country rivers opened over the weekend, attracting everyday Kiwi anglers and high-spending international visitors alike, Otago Fish & Game says.

Lake Hāwea-based guide Jeff Forsee, who has fished around the world - including guiding in Alaska and Mongolia - said he firmly believes New Zealand offers the world’s best trout fishing.

“New Zealand's very much on the radar for international trout anglers,” the Aotearoa Anglers owner said. 

Most of his fishing clients are American or Australian, but others come from all over the world.

Sight-fishing for trout in New Zealand’s high country is something special, he said. 

“These are beautiful clear mountain streams. When we're walking up the river it's very much like hunting. We're looking for individual trout and we see them in the river and we come up with a plan to catch them.

“It's very challenging but very rewarding when it happens.”

Trout fishing is good for the economy and good for the mind, Jeff said.

Each year anglers spend between $113M and $139M on their trips and generate about 1000 jobs nationwide. 

International visitors inject valuable tourism dollars into rural and regional economies, spending an average of $340 a day.

“It’s huge,” Jeff said. 

“It's our whole life. It's how we feed our kids and pay our mortgage.”

Otago Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey issued some advice for anglers.

“...please share the water, respect others on the river, and leave an intentions note at your vehicle before heading out.”

During the season anglers should check for track or road closures with Queenstown Lakes District Council and the Department of Conservation.

They are also reminded to carry the correct Fish & Game licences, including for any Designated Waters. 

PHOTO: Otago Fish & Game