With the days getting longer, the lawns kicking into gear, lambing and calving behind us - it's clear that the eagerly awaited fishing season is upon us. 

My neighbour recently made the observation that all Kiwi kids should learn how to catch a trout as part of their childhood - as well as shoot a duck, deer, learn to swim and ski.

This is even more so in Southland, where trout fishing plays such a strong part in our recreation and food gathering culture. 

- 9.6% of Southlanders sport a fishing license (per the 2018 census). 

- Southland anglers average 15 days angling per season – that’s over a fortnight of trout fishing!

- Southland waterbodies received 126 000 angler days last season – and that was when the border was closed – meaning, on average there are several hundred anglers out every day of the year.

Trout fishing has a high participation rate in Southland.

Our waterways are easily accessible, saving us the expense of travelling long distances and allowing us to squeeze a quick trip in amongst our other commitments.

Not to mention, our region possesses some of the best trout fishing in the world.

The well-known saying, “it’s called fishing, not catching”, highlights that the enjoyment is in the process.

Fishing is as much about casting away stress, reeling in serenity, as well as keeping connected with others and nature.

The vast waterways of Southland are a visual backdrop; however more so they're a pathway for exploration.

Let’s also knowledge the tangible rewards. Fresh, healthy trout is good for the taste buds and a savvy way to trim those grocery bills.

Online, there are countless recipes showcasing the versatility of trout.

Additionally, there are perch in the lower reaches of our main rivers, it’s a prized table fish in Europe, yet is oddly undervalued and under targeted here.

During winter, Southland Fish & Game staff have been busy shoring up access points and erecting new signs.

New for this season is our region-wide, online mapping tool – it has all the official access points, as well as a short description for each. Be sure to look for it on our website.

It will make planning your fishing trip that much simpler.

Early season fishing offers plenty of promise.

The trout haven’t been pressured, and the river level and water temperature can often make fishing more productive than later in the summer.

The season opens during the school holidays this year, offering families an excellent chance to enjoy fishing together.

If you have thought about getting into trout fishing, start by asking around.

Nearly 1 in 10 locals are anglers so you’ll find someone soon enough who will be able to help or alternatively, drop into the Fish & Game office – we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions and point you in the right direction.

Ben Febery

Field Officer

Southland Fish & Game Council