Fly fishing seasons

SPRING - September / October / November

Weather can be a little unpredictable but this is a time when the action is heating up throughout the region. Spawning trout are returning to the rivers, they're hungry and lack of angling pressure over winter has lowered their alertness levels. Hungry fish who are more relaxed? Now this is a great combination!
Even when rivers are high due to heavy rain, opportunity skill abounds for both the spin fisherman and streamer fly fisherman.
Whitebait are on the run and the ever alert sea-run trout are there in the river mouths waiting for them. These fish tend to be in superb condition and very aggressive, especially on or after dark.

SUMMER - December / January / February

Rivers are generally in good condition with mostly settled sunny days.
Lots of insect and terrestrial activity with mayfly and caddis hatches. Great time for the dry fly fisherman or dry/nymph combo. Fish can be spotted feeding during the day and will glady accept a well casted dry fly, although they will become more wary as temperatures rise and river levels drop, choosing shady postions under trees and banks. Early morning, twilight and after dark can also be very effective times to fish if conditions are right.
Sea-run trout are still around the river mouths hunting smelt and bullies so lowland fishing is still very productive.
Summer is an exciting time for the fly fisherman with long days, warm nights, lots of insect and fish activity. With all rivers open, deciding on just where to fish can be very difficult!

AUTUMN - March / April / May

A great time for the stalking dry fly angler, especially March and April. Insect numbers are high and trout in superb condition. Fish are wary though due to months of angler pressure and generally low clear water levels. Time to hone stealth and casting skills, with long flurocarbon leaders and fine tippets being the order of the day.
With April 30 being the end of the open season this is also the time to go back country and explore the small tributaries with large resident trout and the first early spawners.

WINTER - June / July / August

For those hardy souls ready to brave the frosts, this time of year can have excellent fly and spin fishing. Angler numbers are very low and trout are still making their way up the rivers to spawn in June, especially rainbows which tend to be more aggresive at this time and will snatch a well placed streamer or lure.
Weather can be very settled during this period, so after a cold start you will often be rewarded with a brilliant calm sunny day.