Despite excessive rainfall in the weeks preceding the first of December opening of streams in the Rotorua and Waikaremoana area, a good number of anglers ventured out.

Success was enjoyed by many with Rotorua's Utuhina and Waiteti streams proving to be the most successful locations on the morning. Both streams were running clear and this made for good fishing.

The Ngongotaha Stream, which is normally the most popular of the three Rotorua streams, was running slightly high and coloured as a result of the rain. Some anglers spoken to by Fish & Game had still managed to land trout and many were looking forward to a patch of good weather that would enable the stream to clear.

Fish & Game keep these streams closed until December because trout there spawn later than other areas and this lets them breed without being disturbed.

'Late spawning is a feature of the Lake Rotorua and Waikaremoana fisheries. Both of these areas are made up of wild – non hatchery released fish, so we can see rainbow trout spawning right out into November and early December. It's important to give them space to get on with it," says Fish & Game's Matt Osborne.

Ranger teams were out talking with anglers and checking their licences. Fish & Game were pleased to report anglers spoken with on the morning were totally compliant.

The Rotorua streams fisheries were expected to improve as summer temperatures warmed the lake and trout moved into the cooler water.