From DOC fb page:

The beginning of December marks the start of the fishing season for a number of rivers and streams in the region, allowing anglers access to water that has been restricted over winter, including ‘back country’ areas.

The main spawning runs may be coming to an end but good numbers of trout remain in many rivers, especially the Tongariro, where ‘spawning trap’ data reveals a steady stream of fresh fish continue to arrive.

Recent drift dive surveys indicate that trout numbers are high in rivers such as the Waimarino but anglers might wish to avoid the Hinemaiaia where numbers are relatively low – however the dives also confirmed that early spawning was very productive, with large shoals of well developed fry present.

The winter limits protect trout during spawning, ensuring a healthy wild population, for which the fishery has become world renown.