The odd fishing report from elsewhere looks promising, but the usual Tongariro junkies have not reported in lately. They must still be on holiday. That does not stop tourists from asking leading questions about the size of Tongariro trout. The interrogations are usually from West Islanders, who are more concerned with length than condition factors, so we have added a length chart specifically for them. At this early stage of the Tongariro summer, we can only refer them to last season.

Average size of Tongariro trout?

The following extracted from DOC’s newsletter (Department of Conservation manage the Taupo fishery) confirms the average weight measured in the Waipa trap for the last 2024 season survey from the Tongariro River, was 1.6 kg (3 1/2 pounds). OK? For West Islanders (!) who usually prefer to measure the length of their catch, (so it seems bigger) the survey indicated an average length of about 515mm:

For those still not convinced (?), the photo evidence below is local Turangi angler, John Lunt, comparing his Rainbow trout with a Brown trout from 2024.

His catch rate is similar to visiting angler, Paddy Walsh from Opanake, with his Brown trout and Rainbow trout from 2024.

Perceptive anglers will also have immediately noticed that they are both wearing TRM hats… What a coincidence. What can I say?

Together, they provide convincing evidence that withstands the most rigid scrutiny.

The first early browns are just starting to run. Traditionally, the biggest trout usually run first.

Also remember: These trout are 100% wild. Made by nature. No stocking. No hatchery feed full of growth hormones etc. They thrived entirely on natural food – koura (small crayfish) and smelt (whitebait). They are what they eat.

But just in case anglers still need convincing, the catch chart from a Canadian angler last season is further compelling evidence to place the Tongariro River in its rightful, deserved position at the top.

If you cannot interpret the chart, his total catch from 38 days of fishing in February to April 2025 was 174, averaging 4.5 per day, with 36 over 5 pounds. OK?

That is world class!

If you want to follow them, you will need to confirm the dates with TRM asap, as February and March bookings are filling up.