What  a season it has been! Just when we thought salmon were on the verge of extinction like the proverbial Phoenix they have risen from the ashes. No matter how you look at it, its been a great season. Whilst a relative handful of very experienced and persistent anglers have taken literally dozens its also been heartening to observe that ‘average’ anglers have had their share also.

No one river has produced better than another with excellent reports from the Clarence to the Waitaki on the eastern side and similarly good catches on the West Coast. The fish are bigger than average and the condition has been excellent.

Visiting anglers have shared in the spoils. Just over a week ago I guided two Wellington anglers onto their first ever salmon. One even took his limit of two one day. Talk about beginners luck!

We can only hope that the improved run will continue for the next few seasons at least. While not equalling the halcyon days of long ago there are plenty of anglers with grins on their faces this season. 

The response to Graeme’s fly fishing course which operated over two Saturdays under the auspices of Opihi College in Temuka was quite unexpected with a number of would be participants turned away. A group of nine eager anglers turned up for the two days which included a practical session on the lower Opihi on the second day.

Enthusiasm was unbounded and a lot of fun had by all. Whilst we saw plenty of trout they were not in any serious danger, especially when a cold easterly wind made conditions pretty miserable in the afternoon. The course participants voted the exercise a great success and want to have follow-up day in October when the season re-opens.

As there is so much interest Graeme is offering tuition to single anglers or pairs throughout October and November, and again, next winter.

A typical day will cover areas such as stream insects, trout habits and habitat, equipment, rigs, casting, techniques etc and wherever possible will include a practical session, probably on the Opihi or Temuka river. Accommodation close to the river can be arranged. To register interest or find out more phone 03 614 8266 or e-mail GRM6@xtra.co.nz

Rate: $400 (can be shared by two anglers)per day.