Taranaki Fish & Game is tipping local trout streams to be in good condition when the new fishing season opens on Saturday, October 1.
Field officer Allen Stancliff says that a series of moderate winter and spring freshes have flushed out much of the build-up of river bed algae (that can create slippery wading conditions) and ensured streams will be in good order for early season fishing.
Allen says that water temperatures are rising steadily as spring progresses and trout will be actively feeding and very catchable after having a break from angling activity over the winter.
"Rivers such as the Waingongoro in south Taranaki hold good numbers of brown and rainbow trout and should fish well with spin gear. The Patea River in the reach between Stratford and Toko will also produce some nice brown trout and the occasional rainbow."
Allen adds that if river conditions are unsuitable on opening weekend owing to rain, then fishing in lakes Ratapiko, Opunake, Rotomanu and Lake Mangamahoe (fly fishing only) will be well worthwhile.