End of the General Season

The general fishing season closes on April 30, but like Western waters in the States, lakes and larger rivers will remain open. On an earlier family trip, I found a small wilderness river that I hadn't fished yet, but had seen one large trout - actually a really large trout. Although Palmerston North does not receive the praise and accolades of other New Zealand fishing destinations, I have found some fine trout rivers in close proximity. I've caught decent fish during Sunday afternoon strolls on the Manawatu River right in the core of the city. The famous Rangateiki River is about an hour away. Lots of other smaller rivers are found within a short drive from "Palmy".

Rather than hike the trail into the forest park, I chose to drop down from a sheep paddock into this rugged canyon. It was a great early morning hike through some native bush. Although I don't think there are a lot of trout in this small river, I did manage to catch several in the 16-20" category. It's fun to be on such small water with these acrobatic fighters.

I also hooked what I think to be the largest fish of the trip to date. It was a solid hookup and I played him for a good 90 seconds before he ran my 2x tippet across a coarse rock on the bottom of a deep pool. Although I was disappointed not to land this behemoth, it was still a great thrill!

Autumn is slowly changing to winter as our time in this foreign land will soon come to a close. Maddy and Linda are slated for a mid-May return to the States. My departure will follow in early June. Although we all miss our home and friends in beloved Montana, I know it will be a bittersweet departure for me.