Weather: 26.7° Areas of morning cloud, clearing to fine. Cloud returning this evening with isolated showers. Westerlies, turning easterly at night.
River Flow: 21.6 Cumecs (m³/s)
What a stunning day it’s been! The sun was out early with light cloud in the sky, and the cicadas have been singing all day. For those lucky enough to still be out there, this evening is calm and perfect for a last hours of fishing. Keep an eye out for a hatch and those rising fish, the muggy weather should work in your favor!
The shop has been buzzing with a steady stream of anglers from both near and far all weekend.
Reports from the river suggest that fishing’s been a bit tough, but those who show patience are still managing some solid hook-ups. With the water low and clear, things are more challenging, so slowing down, stalking carefully, and taking your time will definitely pay off.
Cicada patterns and large dry flies with darker terrestrial profiles have been working well throughout the day. If the fish aren’t committing to the dry, consider adding a small dropper nymph to the setup if they aren't coming up for the dry.
Yesterday’s conditions were challenging, with strong winds testing those who ventured out. Despite this, Neil managed to connect with a few fish and sent through a great photo from the river with a big black woomfah in to gob of a brown.
Today the wind eased considerably, bringing welcome relief and making conditions far more pleasant for anglers.
We’ve also been hearing positive reports from the big lake, where jigging has been producing some quality fish. Smelt are running strongly around the river mouths, and late-night sessions continue to deliver for those putting in the hours.
Looking ahead, light showers are forecast for tomorrow before things clear nicely. This should help bring down some of the cicadas that have been active, followed by several days of settled weather. Toward the end of the week, a few more showers are expected to freshen things up, while light cloud cover should provide some relief from the sun and make stalking a little more forgiving.
We’ve also got Patagonia wet-wading socks back in stock, just in time for the hot temps. If you’re looking to stay cool while fishing, these are a must-have, especially if you’re getting too warm in your waders. Grab a pair while stocks last!
https://www.sportinglife-turangi.co.nz/products/patagonia-yulex-wading-socks-with-gravel-guard?_pos=1&_psq=patagonia+wading+socks&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Let’s hope the good weather holds out and gives us some more solid fishing days ahead.
Lace Moth (Passion Vine Hopper) numbers are starting to increase, which seems to be a bit earlier than in previous years. Like much of this season, we’re seeing a lot of unexpected changes in the natural rhythms, which could make for an interesting few weeks ahead.
A week or so ago, my mate Luke and I went out for a night fish after work, and I finally landed my first brown trout. These elusive fish had been avoiding me for a while, but as soon as I hooked up, I could tell there was something different about it. I was absolutely stoked to land that fish and can’t wait to get back out and stalk some more — next goal: a river brown!
Tight Lines everyone!
~Niamh(Bluey)