Timely calls essential for fishery rangers

Date:  26 September 2013

The Taupō Trout Fishery has had a couple of months of excellent fishing based upon information gathered from angler surveys and drift dives. The data has indicated a significant improvement compared to previous years. The Tongariro River, Hinemaiaia and the Waimarino have fished well so far this winter for most anglers. Fishery rangers have continued to be present on the rivers, talking to anglers and others in the community.

The Department is also working closely with the Turangi Police in a joint-agency approach to monitor known poaching areas and check anglers fishing on the rivers. Police have the powers to check both fishing licences and hunting permits under the Conservation Act.

Community policing is important in small towns such as Turangi and working together to provide safer communities has benefits for us for better compliance, better angling and protected fish populations, but also police are out and about looking at visitor carparks.

Kim Turia, Taupo Fishery Manager says "Being out on the rivers talking with anglers provides insight into the fishery overall and rangers get a better feel for what's happening"

The Department of Conservation has also appreciated receiving timely calls from the public regarding illegal activities. Mark Venman, Senior Ranger for Compliance says "when DOC receives timely and accurate information, Rangers can respond immediately to issues on rivers or on the lake, which in turn leads to better results".

Public calls have led to the apprehension of an angler during early August that was fishing with bait in the Waikato River and exceeding the daily bag limit. Another call during late August led to the successful apprehension of two young men, caught fishing the lower Tongariro with a spinning rod and no licences. Routine checks of key areas has also resulted in one angler being caught fishing in the Bridge Pool, Tongariro River, before 5 am during early September.

"The communities help on these occasions was vital in getting the right result" Kim says.

This month the department has also recovered hand lines set in the Tongariro River and has received reports of anglers baiting hooks with trout roe (eggs); prohibited activities under the Taupō Trout Fishery Regulations 2004.

The general public and anglers are encouraged to call the number on their fishing licence if they suspect something illegal is occurring.

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