Anglers’ feedback is invited on DOC’s proposal to introduce spin fishing on the TT (Tongariro Taupo) River below SH1 road bridge.

The first angler we mentioned it to suggested it was the thin edge of the wedge?

Taupo Trout Fishery

Taupō Fishery Managers have received enquiries from members of the angling community about a proposal to introduce spin-fishing on a short section of the Tauranga-Taupō River. A decision has been made to defer introduction to allow more anglers to have an opportunity to see the evidence, understand the rationale for change and voice their opinions.

For context, the Taupō Fishery Management Team has been working with the Taupō Fishery Advisory Committee (TFAC) on an idea to introduce limited spin-fishing on a short section of the Tauranga-Taupō River below the SH1 road bridge. A proposal was submitted to TFAC in March which outlines the currently underutilised section of river.

The proposal, which was thoroughly discussed by TFAC, identifies a short and clearly defined stretch of the Tauranga-Taupō River that flows beside the residential road. Spinning would only be permitted above a marker pole 200m upstream from the river mouth to a point 50m below the road bridge. A technical study, which was also submitted to TFAC for discussion in November 2024, confirmed this section is underutilised by fly-anglers.

Any regulation change would ensure fly-anglers fishing the mouth of the river will not be negatively impacted. In addition, fly-fishing above the specific section should also be unaffected.

There are specific occasions during low winter flows when trout can build up in this canal like section, however this represents a very small proportion of the spawning population. Most fish wait until conditions are suitable before entering the river and passing through this section.

The Tauranga-Taupō River benefits from decades of fishery management monitoring. Regular ‘Escapement Counts’ and ‘Creel Surveys’ provide valuable information to help guide management decisions. The technical team would very quickly identify if the introduction of spin fishing had any negative impacts on the trout population or the quality of fishing for fly-anglers upstream.

Fishery Rangers would carry out compliance work to ensure fishery regulations are adhered to. This includes looking for people spin fishing outside the allocated area and those using illegal gear. The exposure and accessibility of this section of river makes illegal activity easier to detect and address.

There are no intentions to expand spin-fishing into other rivers in the Taupō Fishing District. As fishery managers we recognise the value of the Taupō fishery as a world class trout fly-fishing destination.

Your feedback is invited…