Mild, overcast weather and healthy fish in rivers and lakes across the country gave anglers a great start to the fishing season.

Fish & Game New Zealand chief executive Corina Jordan said regions were reporting happy anglers and lots of families out for the season opening on Tuesday, which coincides with the first week of school holidays.

“Young and old were out fishing today, and we are loving seeing pictures of people around the country enjoying getting out in the wild to catch some kai for the table or catch and release for the fun of it.

“Fishing is not just an excellent opportunity to catch your own healthy free-range kai, but it’s recognised internationally for its positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Angling is also great for socialising with friends and family and supports the economy.”

Central South Island staff were out and about speaking with anglers. One team on the Waitaki River and Waitaki irrigation ponds reported great conditions and lots of happy punters. It was also a busy day at Lake Opuha in the Mackenzie District. About 30 anglers were fishing, some from the shore and others by boat.

North Canterbury anglers were out in numbers as the rivers had cleared nicely following rain last week. There were lots of anglers taking up the opportunity, especially some younger anglers trying their hand at catching some of the 400 fish left in the Groynes Children’s Fishing Lakes from Sunday’s Take A Kid Fishing Day.

In the North Island Eastern Region, staff said that great conditions meant anglers were buzzing. Lakes Tarawera and Rotoiti produced great catch rates, and fish were in good condition. 

Ōkataina has a dedicated group of anglers out, some travelling from as far as Whangarei and Hawke's Bay to enjoy this special lake.

In Hawke’s Bay the Tukituki River saw good numbers of anglers catching larger than average trout at around 4-5 pounds showing the fishery is recovering Cyclone Gabriel.

Anglers Ellie, four, and Thea, seven, Flett caught these trout at their secret spot on the Aparima River in Southland.

In Southland, rain leading up to opening day made some rivers unsuitable for fishing.

However, anglers who ventured to the upper reaches of rivers and sought out smaller streams that were clearing nicely enjoyed some early-season success.

Further, those who adapted their techniques, using bright soft baits to take advantage of the discoloured water also reported some impressive catches.

Fish & Game New Zealand expects to sell around 130,000 licences this season, with approximately 10 per cent going to international anglers.

“Don’t miss out, jump online and grab a licence so you can make the most of the whole season,” said Jordan.