Trout fishing improving in region

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 244, 31 May 1988, Page 7

Trout fishing improving in region

Trout fishing prospects for the Waimarino are looking good.

A release of 600 rainbow trout into the three tributaries of the Whakapapa River has boosted trout fishing in the region. This is on the advice of Central North Island Conservancy Council's Waimarino Ward, who met recently for their annual general meeting. Retiring chairman Jim Gosman said the past year has been one o f change, adjustment and uncertainty. Despite this, the ward has effectcd considerable improvements to local amenities. The Mangawhero River he said, produced above average bags with well-conditioned fish. Trout from the Turangi children's fishing pond were released in numbers into dams at National Park and Kaitieke. The aim of the releases is to encourage children in those arcas to try their hand at fishing and boost interest in the sport. In October last year a helicopter was used to

release fingerlings in the tributaries of the Whakapapa River. 600 Ruakituri stock and 600 Taupo stock were released in the Mangahuia, Whakapapaiti and Whakapapanui streams. A release of 1200 fingerlings from Ruakituri and Taupo stock was made last year into the Otamangakau Lake. More locally, the level of Ohakune Lake has been artificially lowered to improve access by fishermen. Construction of new casting platforms by pupils from Ruapehu College is expected to be completed in the near future. Another 400 trout were released int the lake at the beginning of this year, ensuring continuing usage b y fishermen. Releases at Lake Rotokoura, at Karioi were inhibited by the extent of the growth of raupo weed in the lower lake. 200 trout were released into the lake in October of last year, and good numbers remain.