Bosses warned of piscatorial disorder outbreak

Bosses warned of piscatorial disorder outbreak

Employers throughout the country are being warned to brace for an outbreak of ‘piscatorial disorder’ ahead of the new trout fishing season, which opens tomorrow (Tuesday, October 1).

Fish & Game NZ says the syndrome annually affects thousands of anglers around this time of year – symptoms include loss of concentration, nervousness, insomnia and, in extreme cases, absenteeism from the workplace.

“The good thing is symptoms usually clear up within a few days of time spent on a river or lake,” advises Fish & Game spokesman Grant Dyson, “though piscatorial disorder, or PD, is known to flare up again at any time throughout the fishing season.”

The trigger is always long periods spent indoors, especially in the office environment, he adds.

Mr Dyson says those who are struck down should do the right thing by their employer and arrange for a day’s annual leave or time off in lieu, or negotiate some way of making up the hours.

There is also an abundance of additional therapy sessions for sufferers now that Daylight Saving has kicked in.

“It means there is plenty of scope to finish work, grab a quick bite, and jump in the car bound for your nearest lake or trout stream – arriving in time for the evening rise.”

Fish & Game officers around New Zealand are hoping the mild spring will translate into good turnouts for opening day.

Fish & Game urges anglers or would-be fishers to go online to www.fishandgame.org.nz to check the regulations that apply to the spots they intend to fish. Or they can pick up a regulations booklet from their local fishing store or Fish & Game office – there are 12 around the country with contact details on the Fish & Game website.

Each office has a range of informative brochures with lots of information on fishing spots, regulations and methods. Friendly Fish & Game staff are on hand to pass on their local knowledge.

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