The Poronui Ranch Fishing Calendar

Spring (October)

The opening of the fishing season in most districts means the local trout have been undisturbed for months. Temperatures are still cool, but with longer days, the brown trout become very active and there is excellent fishing with weighted nymphs along soft seams in most mountain streams. Some good evening hatches offering very good dry fly fishing at dusk.

Early Summer (November, December)

This is undoubtedly the best time to fly fish in mountain streams throughout New Zealand. The days are long and warm, the water is still cool, there are good mayfly hatches and the trout feed recklessly on the surface throughout the day. The fish are at ease and generally very enthusiastic towards the dry fly. This is the least crowded time to fly fish in New Zealand and the weather becomes very settled after Thanksgiving.

Mid Summer (January, February)

Traditionally this is the most popular time for fly fishermen to visit New Zealand. Most good lodges are pre-booked. Streams are low and wading is easy. Trout are highly visible in the water, but selective with their feeding. On smaller streams these conditions demand careful stalking and delicate presentations with small drys and nymphs. On larger mountain freestone streams (accessed by helicopter and float trips) there is excellent terrestrial activity on the surface.

Late Summer (March, April)

The weather is still warm and settled. April has the lowest average rainfall of any month. Occasionally a brilliant day is heralded by a light frost. Resident trout in mountain streams willingly rise to the surface. The dry and cooler evenings induce good hatches. At this time the trout are in peak condition. It is the best time for catching salmon or for hunting stag as the rut is on.

Autumn offers a variety of outdoor activities in New Zealand. The best fly fishing is using nymphs for early spawning trout in the tributary streams flowing into Lake Taupo. The duck hunting and game bird season opens, and it is the best time for trophy stags.