Trout Poaching

Illegal poaching of trout from rivers and streams within the Taupō District is an ongoing issue. Poaching tends to peak when trout are spawning (April to November) but can occur at any time. The Whangamata Stream and Otaketake Stream are important spawning locations for Lake Taupō trout, so fishing is prohibited all year round.

Fly fishing is allowed at the stream mouth, where it enters Lake Taupō. The mouth is marked with a white, yellow and black marker pole. Boat and spin fishing is not permitted within 200 metres of the marker, which helps to reduce pressure on trout as they gather in preparation for spawning.

The Taupo Fishery Management team spend considerable time and effort across all the Taupo Fishery rivers and streams. Visiting sites regularly, both covertly and openly. Kinloch is a regular site where compliance is undertaken.

We do have limitations, however, so we are seeking the support of the community at Kinloch to assist in providing information. What we advise the community of Kinloch to do is avoid directly confronting people undertaking the illegal activity and instead contact the Taupo Fishery Duty Officer number- 027 290 7758

This is a 24-hour/7 day-a-week service and connects directly to a Taupo Fishery Ranger here in the Taupo Fishery district. The role of the Taupo Fishery Ranger is to collate as much information as possible and if circumstance allows, undertake an immediate response.

Trout poaching is a common problem if you see a person or people fishing where they shouldn’t be or taking trout using an illegal method, please call Taupo Fishery Duty Officer number- 027 290 7758

Information that is useful to provide-

• Description of the person(s) clothing, age estimate, ethnicity, sex and any defining details

• Type of activity- fishing on the stream, using nets or other implements, taking fish by hand

• Location, date and time

• The person(s) identity, if known

• A vehicle description and registration

• Any photos- where there is no risk to the person taking the photo

• Timely accurate information

Things or items to also be on the look-out for

• Nets whether in the stream or hidden on the stream bank. Gaff hooks, modified pitchforks, butchery or filleting knives, sharpened or modified screwdrivers, fishing spears

• Trout remains on the banks such as fish roe (eggs), fish guts and gills, trout fish heads and frames

• Fishing nylon and fishhooks or lures on the stream bank or hanging in trees

If you find items like these, please call the Taupo Fishery Duty Officer number 027 290 7758

Nga mihi,
Nina Manning
Senior Community Ranger