“The solution to any problem—work, love, money, everything—is to go fishing, and the worse the problem, the higher the fish should be rising.” — Lord Home
Fly Fishing the Tongariro River
Well, only two days to Christmas, and I can tell you, the roads are starting to get busy. People are obviously moving to their holiday destinations or are moving to be with family over Christmas. The rivers are generally fairly empty as far as fishers go, but there is some good fishing to be had if you are prepared to spread your methodology. I am quite surprised at the number of fresh fish coming out of the rivers—a lot more than I would have expected at this time of year. I have found the Tongariro River has had its moments throughout its entire length, and the “TT” has been fishing well in the upper reaches, with some top-quality fish being landed.
At the time of writing (Tuesday), it is very windy and there is a bit of rain about, which is looking like a fairly wet lead-up to Christmas. However, this should get the fish moving and I suspect by the weekend the fishing should be very good indeed. At the time of writing, the Tongariro is running at 26 cumecs, the “TT” is low at 0.2, and the Whanganui River at Piriaka is flowing at around 18 cumecs; therefore, all rivers are in good shape. A bit of a fresh should juice all of them up just nicely.
I have found, along with nymphing, the swinging fly is working very well and shouldn’t be overlooked. A sink-tip line at the tail of the big pools will generally bring on a strike, and the flies that are working for me are small Olive or even black Woolly Buggers. You will have your favourites, so fish them with confidence.
The Tongariro River Producing Well
Not much to add, but I do find at this time of year, when some once-a-year fishers hit the water, they do not always understand the fishing etiquette. Sometimes a calm conversation with them is the way to handle the situation, as often they don’t realise they may be intruding on your space. Fishing is so much more enjoyable if everybody understands that to cast and move up or downstream frequently gives everyone a fair shot. Well, that’s it for now and to all fishers out there, Merry Christmas and tight lines.
For all I Love Fly Fishing gear check it all out out on-line at www.iloveflyfishing.kiwi and order what you need. Feel free to call Johan, 021-02209719 or johan@iloveflyfishing.kiwi. You will receive your goods in quick order and at a great price.
Until next time,
Tight lines,
Brian – NZPFGA Member,
