Just discovered a welcome swarm of activity on DOC’s fishy facebook advising another anglers’ access road blocked off…
(To keep up with DOC’s facebook go to TRM Links and scroll down to Sub-heading “Important Fly Fishing Sites”)
23 November:
Anglers and other Lake Otamangakau users will need to adapt to imminent changes that will reduce vehicle access to the area commonly known as the ‘north arm’ of the lake. The Taupo Fishery management team have been notified by the Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust of their intention to put a gate across Access Road No. 4, on the western side of the lake. Access onto the forest lands is being changed to manage health and safety concerns.
While access to boat ramps will not be affected, there will be impacts on people attempting to access Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust land to the north of Lake Otamangakau dam. Restricted access is expected to take effect from early December and will particularly impact on anglers who previously enjoyed the convenience of remote camping beside the lake – including many visiting and international anglers.
Taupo Fishery Manager Dave Conley recognises the recreational value of access to the north arm of the lake and is working hard to find solutions for anglers.
“We should acknowledge and thank the Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust for previously allowing access, as anglers have enjoyed many years of excellent fishing and camping as a result. The northern arm of the lake offers anglers the opportunity to experience wilderness camping, while still having access to their vehicles and the convenience of a short drive to Turangi.”
“We understand the need for the changes to access policy, and are currently working with Genesis Energy, Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust and local hapu to find solutions that will enable anglers to have a similar wilderness camping experience without accessing private forestry land. A ‘site visit’ last week presented an opportunity to explore how these ideas could work on the ground,” Dave added.
Discussions with stakeholders are currently underway, but in the meantime anglers may have to make some changes to their plans for the summer, as lasting solutions may be some months away.
Further information contact NZ Forest Managers Ltd – 07 386 8757
It can be fun introducing people to trout fishing for the first time, sharing advice and showing them how it’s done. In that vein, two members of DOC’s admin team took to the lake on kayaks this morning before work – Grant Sim happily showing Traci Grant the ropes.
Beginners luck or simply a natural fishing genius, who knows… but what we do know is Traci’s first trout is now the thing of legend – a 4kg rainbow! “I think I’ve got something Grant… GRANT!” could be heard ringing across the water.
Having taken stock of her achievement, Traci described the kayak fishing adventure as the highlight of her time in Taupo. Taupo Fishery Ranger Peter Wilton (http://www.wiltonflyfish.co.nz/) was on hand to take photos, while surveying boats.
