Tongariro River Flow: 21m3/sec
Weather: Fine. Southeasterlies, easing this evening
Fishing on the rivers has been excellent of late. I've noticed lots of very fresh fish throughout the rivers, that have just entered from the lake. Some are very good size, and hard fighting, which has provided a lot of fun for the anglers. The recent rain we've had must have encouraged this.
More and more large browns are being caught, with many coming up for the cicada or bigger dry flies. The picture above is an example of this, with one of Pete's many cicada patterns working a treat on one of the many great conditioned browns in the system. Everywhere I have been on the river, I am finding good numbers, of both browns and rainbows. Although they can be spooky, remember to lighten up your gear and be stealthy in your approach. I'm finding smaller nymphs around #16 are working great if they don't take the dry.
Some recent photos from myself and Rosie, of some of the stunning rainbows running through the river currently.
For the jigging fisherman on the lake, the thermocline is sitting around 40m with the smelt being pinned against it. If you're getting no hits, try some smaller smelt patterns.
Reports from the trollers, it has been slow, with seldom fish being caught. Although when they do, they are on orange or green Tassie Devils.
All the best out there guys! Remember to come in and let us know how you get on. Bring your fish pics.
Tight lines,
The Sportinglife Crew.