Kids learn how to catch rainbow trout

BIG SMILE: Young angler Arikihana Munro, 6, was stoked with his catch. PHOTO/BEN FRASER 100814BF10

Hundreds of youngsters basked in rare winter sunshine, enjoying the fruits of their labour at the popular Fish & Game Kids Fish Out day.

Held at the Ngongotaha trout hatchery yesterday, children between 6 and 14 were invited to try fly fishing for rainbow trout.

Rotorua Anglers Association members taught the young anglers how to cast.

After their catch, each participant was awarded a certificate to document the weight of their trout and celebrate their achievements.

For a $3 donation, all the equipment was provided and the children were guaranteed to catch a trout, which they could then take home for dinner.

The event ran in two sessions from 9am to noon and 1pm to 3pm, to avoid long waits.

Arikihana Munro, 6, couldn't wipe his grin off when he caught his trout. "It was a tough one to catch but I caught it and it was a lot of fun."

Arikihana said he was going to hang his certificate of achievement on his wall.

Arikihana's father, Mark Munro, said it was the second time they had taken Arikihana to the kids fish out day.

"We took him for the first time last month and he absolutely loved it so we decided to take him back this time. When he caught his trout it was a big thumbs up and grinning from ear to ear.

"He's only ever done fly fishing at the event but he's keen on the sport, always coming down to the beach with us to go fishing." Mr Munro said the event was a great way to get kids out and involved in different types of activities.

"It's a really great event and a good chance for kids who have never been fishing, to give it a crack.

"We get quite a few foster children through our home and always take them along, as well as the neighbourhood kids and their friends."

The next Kids Fish Out day will be held Sunday September 14, inquiries can be made to the Fish & Game office during office hours (07) 357 5501.