Lower bag limit proposed at Lake Waikaremoana

Lake Waikaremoana

PROPOSED changes to angling rules will next year more than cut in half the number of trout anglers can take from Lake Waikaremoana — if anglers agree to them.

Eastern Fish and Game Council yesterday outlined eight possible changes to the regional trout fishing rules laid down in the Angler’s Notice, that could be brought in for next season.

Eastern Fish and Game regional manager Andy Garrick says it was important to the council that anglers digest and then respond to the proposals.

“We try to consult as widely as possible on these changes — so please take the opportunity to have your say."

Mr Garrick said that of particular interest to anglers who fish at Lake Waikaremoana would be possible changes to the bag limit and fishing on the Hopuruahine Stream.

Those changes would reduce the bag limit at Waikaremoana from eight fish to three fish a day, and prohibit the use of motorised craft while fishing upstream of the Hopuruahine Stream mouth (Lake Waikaremoana).

It was also proposed to move the Hopuruahine landmark pole 200m downstream to remove ambiguity over the spin/fly fishing demarcation.

People could view the Eastern Fish and Game website for information, he said.

Anglers are encouraged to have their say by writing to Eastern Fish and Game at Private Bag 3010, Rotorua, 3046 or by emailing mosborne@fishandgame.org.nz by May 30.