Rotorua anglers urged to have say on fishing rules

Anglers are being urged to have a say on the Eastern Fish & Game fishing rules that are under review.

The "angling rules" are reviewed every second season by the Eastern Region Fish and Game Council.

Fish & Game Eastern Region manager Andy Garrick said submissions were welcome,
"whether you're a dedicated fly fisher or a casual spin fishing angler".

"We need to set rules to ensure the sustainability of fisheries, but without unnecessarily
restricting angler opportunities."

He said the review process was the perfect time for all licence holders to get involved in management of the fisheries and put forward any constructive ideas for changing the rules.

"We would appreciate hearing from you if you have strong views for, or against any of the points."

Garrick said a number of proposals were on the table, including removal of "fly fishing only" designation from the shoreline areas of Rotorua lakes.

"There are a number of fly fishing only areas around the shorelines of Lakes Rotorua, Rotoiti and Tarawera which currently produce some complexity and confusion, especially for licence holders who would prefer to spin fish.

"We do expect some forthright discussion on this, with plenty of differing views,"
Garrick said.

"Fly and spin fishing anglers already co-exist happily for the most part, in areas including Hamurana, Ngongotaha and Waiteti on Lake Rotorua, and the 'Transformer' at Lake Rotoiti.

"The bottom line is making the rules easier to follow and getting more anglers participating in sports fishing."

Submissions can be emailed to mosborne@fishandgame.org.nz or sent to Eastern Region Fish & Game, Private Bag 3010, Rotorua 3046.

Submissions close March 20 and will go before the Eastern Fish & Game council in June.

If adopted, the changes will come into effect on October 1 next year.

The full list of proposals can be found here.