Media release from Otago Fish & Game

Otago Fish & Game Offers Anglers A Winter Wonderland

Following on from a fantastic summer for local fishermen, Otago anglers are set to benefit from a release of hatchery reared fish from the regions Macraes Hatchery.

“Winter fishing in the region is on the rise, so what better time to liberate these fish” says Steve Dixon, Otago Fish & Game ranger.

Otago Fish & Game will release the excess hatchery stock into the Southern Reservoir, Sullivan’s Dam and Tomahawk Lagoon in Dunedin along with Butchers Dam in Alexandra.

Around 300 of the year and a half old rainbow trout to be released weigh close to 1kg. “The dry summer hasn’t hindered the growth of the fish at the hatchery and the fish are in prime condition.” added Steve Dixon.

The condition of the fish, along with the more settled weather over the winter months, and easily accessible fishing spots are cited as the main reasons for the increase in angler numbers over the coldest season on the fishing calendar.

The winter fishing season begins on April 1 and runs through until September 30, with a winter season licence costing $72 for an adult and $14 for a junior, with those under 12 free. Please note that you cannot fish an Otago back country fishery on a winter licence.

The release is scheduled to be completed by late April.

ENDS

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