Trout anglers will have one eye on the water and another on the weather as opening day for the 2023/24 trout fishing season approaches.

Due to recent heavy rain and flooding, trout anglers may have limited options when the new season begins on Sunday (October 1), Otago Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey said.

“We’re recommending anglers stay flexible in their planning until the last minute, because river levels and the weather look highly changeable,” Bruce said. 

“The heaviest rain seems to have missed the Taieri River, but the Pomahaka and Clutha/Mata-au rivers have been under flood warning alerts.

“These will need time to settle but there is still a week to go.”

Lowland brown trout fisheries in Otago open on October 1, whereas the season for most other closed fisheries above Clyde Dam will open on November 1.

“Among the rivers soon to open are the Taieri, Pomahaka, and Shag/Waihemo and many other smaller rivers and tributaries that run out to sea,” Bruce said.

Opening day anglers could also consider stillwaters such as Mathias Dam, Poolburn Dam or Southern Reservoir.

“Check your local fishing regulations to be sure which waters are open and don’t forget your 2023/24 fishing licence,” Bruce said. 

The season opening also marks the beginning of the Designated Waters licence system, which replaces backcountry endorsements to manage overcrowding on a small number of fragile fisheries.

“If you want to fish Designated Waters, you’ll need a valid designated waters licence in addition to your whole season fishing licence.

“Otago has nine Designated Waters Fisheries but only two of them – Upper Pomahaka River and Nevis River - open on October 1. The rest will open a month later.”

Find more information about licences at the Fish & Game website here.

PHOTO: Otago Fish & Game