Quote for the week: It’s an odd fact of life that whichever side of the river you’re on, two thirds of the best water is out of reach on the other side. (John Gierach; author of the cult classic Trout Bum makes his simple observation in his book – No Shortage of Good Days – 2011.)
Tongariro River, lower Blue Pool.
Greetings fellow fly fishers,
Well, Labour weekend is upon us and wherever you are you have probably been through a pretty rough week with lots of wind and rain. Unfortunately, I think we are going to get another walloping shortly, but Saturday and Sunday should not be too bad. The rivers are fishing very well and there are still plenty of fresh fish to be had although an increasing number of recovering fish are starting to show up.
A lot of these recovering fish are still spirited fighters however and are hungry and eager to put condition back on. I was fishing with a double nymph rig this week and on more than one occasion a fish would take both offerings presented. A few more fishers have turned up for the long weekend but still plenty of space on the rivers. At time of writing (Friday evening) the Tauranga Taupo River is running at about .6 and the Tongariro approximately 40 cumecs.
Swinging woolly buggers will work in the lower Tongariro and at the tail of all pools. Nymphing with pheasant tails or similar will do the job just about anywhere with the Cleardrift Egg patterns still being effective. I am guiding an American on Monday so I am hoping the weather will hold although the forecast for Monday does not look too promising.
More ‘TT’ Bullets..
Still some fish to be had at the Hinemaiaia River if you want to get out of the wind but as summer approaches the fishing will get harder so if you are considering fishing this river, do not leave it too long for best results. Still too windy to get the boat out but hopefully I will get an opportunity soon so I can have a go for smelting trout at the Delta and even the Tokaanu hole.
Well, that’s it from me this week so until next time.
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 Barrie, 021-925006 or barrie@iloveflyfishing.kiwi. You will receive your goods in quick order and at a great price.
Brian – NZPFGA Member,
