Well, this has been the first time we were able to float through Waiohau on the Rangitaiki River this season. It was high and still dirty but we thought we better have a play before the next storm comes through starting tomorrow. Armed with a spinner, we started at the Mangamako and pulled out at the bridge above Lake Matahina.
This was all about checking the river and new hazards after six months of rain and high water. I love seeing the changes, new channels and new opportunities every year. With the high flows there are a few dodgy spots to watch out for.
We targeted a spot of very heavy and deep flow where Jack lost a monster a few years ago. On the second cast, boom, Jack was on. At age 13, he is almost as excitable as his Dad when a fish is hooked. Unfortunately, he has it too easy and takes it a bit for granted. We landed the rainbow and noticed the distinct wounds where a shag almost got him a day or so earlier.
So down we went, targeting shallower areas where the trout might see the spinner. Luckily, I know the river well and every likely spot produced fish or at least strikes. When you feel the spinner in the heavy current and suddenly it slackens and stops spinning, strike! Most of the strikes happen with the trout following and eating the spinner coming towards you.
There were a few jet boats and a jet ski that came up river from Matahina. They were all spinning but none had caught anything. Or at least that is what they said, crackup. I suppose it helps to know exactly where to fish in these conditions.
We did have a fly rod and did see one trout rising and spotted several others feeding down low. But we did not bother putting it together as we had caught about a dozen fish already. Each fish and location has been duly noted in my little brain for later in the season.
The hot smoker got two runs today. Salt, maple flavoured syrup, some creole and cajun seasoning make for a tasty treat.
The cicadas are singing like crazy. Fingers crossed the river will be lower and clear in a few weeks.
