Tongariro River
Background
Perhaps the most famous trout fishing river in the world. Its fame is well deserved, with huge numbers of wild trout migrating up the river each winter. Both Brown and Rainbow trout make the journey up river to spawn, but it is the huge numbers of fresh, fit, fin perfect Rainbows that draw the majority of anglers. According to statitics published in the Department of Conservation magazine 'Target Taupo', in recent years the largest runs tend to occur in September and October, but plenty of fresh fish will be in the river from May through to November. Those anglers wishing to increase their chances of hooking up on a large Brown Trout should try early autumn. These fish can be very large and they prefer to run before the Rainbows.
While it is true that the largest numbers of trout are in the river during the winter migrations, we should not forget that the river holds plenty of fish all year. Many fly fishermen prefer to fish the river in the summer, with lower angler numbers and active trout being the main attractions. Summer on the lower river offers another chance to tangle with a big Brown. They will often gorge themselves on cicadas and can fall for a well presented artificial.
The Taupo fishery is completely wild. The fish running the Tongariro in winter are heading up to the headwaters in order to sustain the wild population. Therefore as responsible anglers we should only take what we need. Each fish we release could go on to contribute thousands to the following generation. More fish for the future!
Fishing on the river.
The two methods that account for most of the trout caught on the Tongariro River are 'downstream wetfly' and 'upstream nymphing'.
Downstream wetfly or wetlining works best when the river is running higher and carrying a bit of colour. The angler will use a fast sinking line, short leader and a large wet fly or lure. The idea is to cast across the river and allow the fly to sink close to the bottom and then swing through the pool. Very similar to salmon fishing in Europe and North America. In the photo below I am feeling for a 'take' near the head of the Breakfast Pool.
Upstream nymphing, as the name suggests involves casting upstream. The angler uses a floating line connected to a long leader and a heavy nymph - many anglers use a team of two nymphs but at least one needs to be heavy to ensure the rig gets to the bottom. To help detect bites, a piece of bright yarn is tied to the leader. This is called a 'strike indicator' - when it dips under the surface the angler strikes! This recovering Jack was caught on the Bridge Pool on a Pheasant Tail Nymph. This fish was released to gain condition for next season.
Dry fly can also work well but this method is most effective in the warmer months, when fewer fish are in the river. Reduced numbers does not mean reduced fun. A pleasant fishing session, on a warm summer evening can quickly turn to high drama, as a large brownie rises out of the depths to inspect your dry cicada... I am yet to land one of these big boys, but watch this space!