Mixed feelings on fishing ban (+video)

Reactions have been mixed to a proposed ban on fishing upstream of the Awahou Stream mouth - one of the new rules proposed for the region by the Eastern Fish and Game Council.

Fish and Game officer Matt Osborne said fishing was currently permitted from the Hamurana bridge down to the stream mouth.

If the proposal went through, anglers would still be able to fish at the stream mouth but all fishing upstream would be prohibited.

He said the rule change would provide refuge for highly stressed trout and better allow identification of poachers on the stream.

But Rotorua Anglers Association president Wayne Woodward said it was an ideal spot for children to start their fishing, as well as swim. He said the association was "100 per cent in favour of knocking poaching on the head", but not at the expense of junior and beginners' fishing.

Rotorua Trout Guide owner-operator Julian Danby said it would not affect his business at all, as he tried to keep away from crowds of people in the summer.

He said he did not think the ban was a bad thing, as it was "a little bit of a fish in a barrel situation". "I don't agree with that style of fishing."

Another proposal is to move the opening date for lakes Tarawera, Rotoiti and Okataina from October 1 to the first Saturday in October each year.

The Eastern Fish and Game council has outlined eight possible changes to the current fishing rules laid down in the Angler's Notice and are appealing for anglers to have their say.

Eastern Fish and Game regional manager Andy Garrick said it was important to the council that anglers digested then responded to the proposals.

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

Have your say on fishing rules:

* Write to Eastern Fish & Game, Private Bag 3010, Rotorua 3046, or email mosborne@fishandgame.org.nz by May 30.

* The proposals for the 2016-17 season will go before a meeting of the Eastern Fish & Game council on June 16.

* Details, www.eastern. fishandgame. org.nz