Otago Fish & Game staff successfully relocated more than 500 trout from a stranded pool in the Lindis River after being alerted by a concerned member of the public.

It also responded to another public report of fish stranded in a pool near Lake Hāwea.

The fish rescued from the Lindis River included brown trout weighing up to 2.2kg and rainbow trout up to 1.8kg.

Otago Fish & Game operations manager Jamie Ward said the fish had been trapped in a shaded pool that initially had water flowing into it.

“However, as the week progressed, conditions in the river worsened, and the fish became increasingly stressed,” he said.

“A decision was made to relocate them downstream to Lake Dunstan to ensure their survival.”

Electric fishing equipment was used to carry out the relocation in the most effective and least harmful manner, with the fish transported using oxygenated tanks to give them the best chance of survival. 

Otago Fish & Game also successfully relocated fish back into Lake Hāwea on Thursday (February 27).

More than 100 fish were relocated, including brown and rainbow trout up to 1.8kg, as well as several native fish species, such as bullies. 

Over the past month, Otago has experienced dry conditions, making it increasingly likely that fish may become stranded in isolated pools.

“While Otago Fish & Game strives to respond to issues of sportsfish welfare, it is not feasible to save every fish in distress,” Jamie said. 

“These are wild animals that we manage, and sometimes the environment, whether natural or altered, can inflict some pretty harsh outcomes.”

Interventions must be carefully prioritised based on accessibility, available time and cost viability for Fish & Game licenceholders, he said.

“We greatly appreciate the care and engagement of the public in reporting these incidents, as timely intervention is crucial good outcomes for stranded fish."

PHOTO: Ben Sowry