Weather: Cloudy with more on and off rain!
Tongariro River Flow: 95.9 Cumecs (m³/s). It's coming down!
RAIN RAIN AND MORE RAIN.
After so many floods recently, we’re all feeling a bit over it. Yes, the rain is good for the river and the runs—but we've had more than enough for now!
Earlier in the week, temperatures dropped and we had some thick frosts, but the weather was stunning. Heading into the weekend, however, we were dreading the forecasted rain. On Saturday morning, the Tongariro spiked to 289 cumecs.
Friday saw fantastic fishing all day, with reports of chrome-bright fish in great numbers. Gary even said it was one of the best days on the river he’s had in a long time.
We expect the river to return to fishable levels by Sunday, likely holding around 70 cumecs and dropping very slowly—if the rain stays away.
Fishing Tactics
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Wet-lining has been effective—target the edges, ledges, and deeper drop-offs behind rocks. Look for slacker water that indicates reduced flow—ideal spots to swing a fly.
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Larger-profile flies with colour and flash are working well in high, murky flows. As the water clears, scale back to smaller, more subtle patterns.
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Nymphing could become effective again if the river continues to drop tonight. Focus on those slack-water areas where trout can escape the stronger current.
Hot Tip: Eggs are a great choice in these conditions. Make sure you’re getting them right down to the bottom. If the egg bite slows, switch to Caddis patterns—they’ll be present in large numbers and can be just the thing to tempt hungry trout.
(Gary on Friday afternoon)
We have a nice range of new Patagonia clothing instore. Lots of options for rain jackets and warm clothes which is very needed this winter!
Pat and Chris have come over from Australia for a lengthy stay for the fishing.
They had a fantastic time here with lots of good fish caught and great conversations during the breaks in-store.
They had a double hook up and Chris needed to net both fish at the same time!
(Pat and Chris with bangers above)
New Patagonia Gear In-Store Now
With the wet weather continuing, we've just received a fantastic new range of Patagonia gear—perfectly timed to keep you warm and dry. The collection includes high-quality rain jackets, insulated clothing, versatile packs, durable luggage, and excellent waterproof bags.
Giveaway Reminder
Don’t forget—every order over $70 qualifies for one entry into our incredible PRIZE GIVEAWAY!
You could win:
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A brand-new Sage R8 #6 9ft fly rod
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A Sage Spectrum 5/6 reel
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Gold MAX 6wt floating line
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120 premium Category 3 flies
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Two Category 3 caps
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Category 3 stickers for your car window or gear
This amazing prize is valued at over $3,000!
Every online order over $70 is automatically entered into the draw—no extra steps needed.
Tight lines to everyone, and above all—stay safe out there in the higher flows.
– Team Sporting Life