Fish & Game NZ says weather conditions for the new freshwater season look okay, with rain scattered around the North Island but largely fine in the South. File photo Photo: 123RF
A massive turnout is expected for the start of the new fishing season, with opening day falling on a Saturday.
Fish & Game NZ chief executive Corina Jordan said the start of the new freshwater season seldom fell on a Saturday.
“It isn’t quite ‘once in a blue moon’, but many anglers and their families will certainly treat the season start on Saturday as a rare event to celebrate,” Jordan said.
“Getting out for the start of the fishing season is a long-held tradition for many Kiwis, but normally lots of people have to wait until a weekend if opening falls on a work day,” she said.
“So, yes, it makes this opening special and we’re anticipating a massive turnout as a result, with tens of thousands of people hitting lakes and rivers throughout the country.”
Weather conditions for opening weekend look okay, with rain scattered around the North Island but largely fine in the South, she said.
“South of Cook Strait looks to be the pick of the places to head, but I’m sure those who get out on the water this weekend will enjoy it regardless.”
More people are expected to be out on the water, with about 100,000 fishing licences expected to sell for this season.
“The last two or three years have been tough for many New Zealanders. It was great to see an increase in angling activity following the lockdowns – people made the connection that outdoor pursuits help improve wellbeing,” Jordan said.
“Now, with inflationary pressure driving up food prices, going out and catching your own healthy free-range food makes sense from a financial perspective too.”
About 10 percent of licence sales would be for overseas visitors, she said.
“This is good news for the wider economy – research shows international anglers are big spenders, among the highest value tourists the country receives.
“Many guides are also back to being well booked by overseas clients this season after several years of no tourism, which is great for their businesses and the flow-on economic effects for the regional communities where many are based.”
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