PROSPECTS EXCELLENT

Taranaki Daily News, 24 September 1940, Page 9

PROSPECTS EXCELLENT

TROUT FISHING SEASON SOUTH TARANAKI REVIEW With the opening of the fishing season next Tuesday, South Taranaki fishermen are looking forward to good catches. Observers say that large fish have been seen where previously there were none. According to its custom since the heavy floods four or five years ago, when for two successive years streams were atmost swept clear of young trout, the Hawera Acclimatisation Society has this year liberated nearly half a million fry and fingerlings. As a result of this policy the number and size of the fish has been built up to such an extent that this season is expected to be one of the best experienced for many years. Limited supplies of petrol may affect the number of license-holders. but Taranaki anglers are in a happier position than those in other districts because trout streams of the province are numerous and easy of access. Work at Hatchery. The operation of the hatchery at Durham Road under ideal conditions gives the Hawera Acclimatisation Society the opportunity to consetve ideal fish in its streams. When about three or four months old the young brown trout, known as swimmers, are carried in cans to the streams where they are to be liberated. Here liberators transfer them to small containers and carry them along the river banks to locations suitable for liberation. If released in deep pools they suffer through the cannibalism of larger trout or eels. The ideal place is in shallows where refuge beneath ledges and stones is afforded the young fish. As in previous years, the interest and support of country landbolders has assisted the society. . giving it access to many placcs suited to its purpose. The Hawera society's district extends from Waitotara River to Taungatara River, near Opunake, and all the more popular fishing streams from StratfordOpunake Road to South Road are subject to its liberation scheme. As the opening of this season is on a week day, enthusiastic members will be prevented from making a "flying start," but next week-end should, if weather permits, see many rods out of their cases.