Fish & Game reels in new anglers with education and big trout releases

Jacob Lucas, Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game

Getting into trout fishing is no longer as simple as learning from family. Busy lifestyles, technology and a more diverse population have disrupted the traditional flow of knowledge.

Fish & Game has stepped in as the first point of contact for beginners, offering resources online and practical courses.

Across Nelson Marlborough, this approach has grown thanks to a donation from angling duo Jim and Fleur Ring who’s support funds soft-bait clinics, fly-fishing workshops, junior courses and Women on the Fly events with local experts and Fish & Game staff delivering these sessions to help newcomers gain confidence.

Results for the local trout hatchery programme also plays a big role. Each year, 5000–7000 rainbow trout weighing 1kg or more are released into waterways, mainly Lake Argyle and Waimea Park, some of the region’s most popular.

At a recent Lake Argyle clinic, Lynette Juno and Gary Robertson landed three trout, including one weighing 12 pounds.

Adding to the excitement is the Henderson’s Lake Argyle tagged fish competition. Before Christmas, 50 trout weighing 10 pounds or more will be released, giving anglers plenty of reason to head to the lake.