Trout about for catching

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 21, 20 October 1987, Page 2

Trout about for catching

For the last four years, the Department of Conservation has been keeping Ohakune Lakes Reserve well stocked with young trout for child-sized anglers. This year was no exception, with 320 2-year old rainbow trout from the Tongariro Hatchery in Turangi being released into the lake last week. Conservation Officer John Heaphy said the trout average in weight between a half and oru; kilo and are ideally sized for children to catch. Contrary to popular belief, they are not put there for the benefit of the 'big kids'. Mr Heaphy said a proportion of the fish are marked with yellow plastic tags. Anj one catching a tagged fish can take it in to either Ohakune Sports and Gifts in Clyde Street, or straight to Mr Heaphy. The fish will be weighed and measured to give the Department of Conservation an idea of the growth poten-

tial of the lake. Anglers get to keep their fish. Mr Heaphy warned young fishermen to exercise extreme care when fishing from boats on the lake as there is just one exit for them from the water, through the picnic area. Another consideration is an Ohakune by-law which does not permit motorised boats on the lake. Few people know of this regulation, according to Mr Heaphy. Fishing licences are required to fish on this lake.