Winter season fishing licences now available

Winter season licences became available on April 1 and provide six months of fishing until the end of September. Photo / Supplied

With the cooler weather arriving, Fish & Game says there is plenty of opportunity for trout fishing ahead for those yet to buy a fishing licence.

Winter season licences became available on April 1 and provide six months of fishing until the end of September.

In the Rotorua lakes district, nearly all the fisheries remain open until the end of June when some upper reaches of rivers close to protect spawning trout and Lake Tarawera, Rotoiti and Okataina close to boat-based fishing.

In the South Island many lakes and rivers remain open through the winter with the added bonus that many lakes offer land-locked salmon for the angler.

In Southland, Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri offer great fishing as do Otago lakes like Wakitipu and Wanaka.

Policy and planning manager Robert Sowman said for $78, an adult licence gives you the chance to target trout which are currently feeding up, to get themselves in top condition before spawning.

"It really is a six-month licence that provides for enjoyment in the great outdoors and the chance to take some home healthy wild food for the dinner table."

Sowman said New Zealanders who are planning a big autumn break by combining Easter and Anzac Day with some statutory holidays can get out trout fishing for a modest spend on a winter licence.

But anyone who is planning to fish for one day or only a week or so has other good options.

Fish & Game caters to Kiwi holidaymakers with well-priced Short Break (3-day) and Long Break (9-day) licences.

"Although many tributaries close for winter spawning there are still a large number of main rivers and lakes that remain open to anglers," Sowman said.