1 October - 2015 IN THIS ISSUE Page 1

October - 2015
IN THIS ISSUE
Page 1 Page 3 Page 5 Page 8 Page 9 Page 11 Page 12 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 18 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 26 Page 28 Page 30 -
Presidents Report
Fishing Report
What’s Happening – Club Nights / Club Trips / Events
Mohaka Rafting Trip
Tuition Trip For Novice Anglers
Fly Tying: Wee Wets With Dave McLellan
Casting Tuition
NSFF Calendars
Recipe Of The Month
Lake Quality Results Highlight Action Needed
Fish & Game Vows ‘Strong Opposition’ To Trout Farming Proposals
NZFFA President David Haynes Report Sep 2015
100 Facts About Trout – The Wild Trout Trust
Fishery Rangers Net A Big Catch Of Offenders
Taupo Fishery Report - September
At The End Are The Rainbows
Editor’s Note
General Club Information Plus Committee Members Contact Details
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Over recent years, business commitments and other responsibilities, have conspired to
ensure that I have been unable to cast a line on opening day. In fact it is more than twenty
years since I actually had a “free” day on October 1st. However, my recollection of that
occasion is still clear because it falls into the category we all know as a ‘RED LETTER”
day!
A couple of years earlier I had been introduced to the delights of the Kaueranga river by a
local North Shore guide (and Lake Pupuke ranger), George Moore, who often took
visiting businessmen/anglers there because it is only slightly over an hour by car. On that
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occasion, George and I caught a number of rainbows both on dry flies and nymphs but
more importantly, George passed on a great deal of his knowledge on where the fish were
to be found.
As I said, a couple of years later, my long-time fishing buddy, Bruce and I, found that we
both had the chance to go fishing and with a good forecast, we grabbed the opportunity.
The area that George had taken me to was over private farmland below the forest park
boundary but the owners were delightful people who, like many farmers, when asked
politely, gave us “free reign” provided we left gates as we found them.
The Kaueranga is not a big river and can be crossed easily in many places and on the day
of our visit it was reasonably low and clear which, combined with the beautiful day and
profusion of flowering kowhai along the banks created a scene worthy of an oil painting.
Bruce and I were using small 5/6 weight rods with double taper floating lines and our
flies were also pretty small in the size 12 to 16 range. As shown to me by George, we
approached each pool and riffle very cautiously taking “turn about” drifting nymphs
along under shady overhanging banks or dropping dry flies on the narrow foamy “feedline” generated by a meeting of currents.
Although I can’t now remember the number of fish we caught and released, it would have
been at least twenty each and while they only ranged in size from about 150mm to
400mm, it was absolutely magical and was all the more satisfying because it was the
practical application of knowledge gained from a more experienced angler. I don’t see as
much of Bruce these days but when we do get together, that October 1st day on the
Kaueranga river features prominently and early in our conversation.
I would encourage all club members who have not already tried it, to have a go at small
stream fishing as it doesn’t require very long casts and it just so happens that the club is
running a series of casting clinics in November catering to the beginner anglers amongst
us. Details are in the last club newsletter so please give it some serious attention. It could
open up a “whole new world”.
Dave Symes - President.
A beautifully
marked
small stream
Brownie.
Small
streams
really
can
produce
some great
fun.
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FISHING REPORT
Auckland / Waikato
By all accounts the Waipa system tributaries have been fishing well since opening day
although the fresh winds have made things a bit tricky. The water temperatures are
currently very positive for fishing and as they warm a little we should start to see some
excellent evening mayfly hatches.
Like the Waikato the Coromandel streams are all looking like they are in a good
temperature range for the Trout and flowing at good spring levels, higher than summer
but not so high as to be unfishable. For the deeper water a double nymph rig under an
indicator should work well and for the smaller and shallower water a dry fly dropper rig
would be best.
Best flies to use: Dries – size 12 attractor patterns. Nymphs – size 12 to 14 Hares Ear
nymphs, Pheasant Tails, Hare and Coppers. All with a gold bead and maybe some extra
bling like a hot spot / butt, or a UV Dubbing collar.
Rotorua
Does anyone out there know of a regular report on the fishing in the Rotorua area? I can’t
find anything at all anymore.
Taupo Region
Oh Dear the Waitahanui. S**t I opened a can of worms on this river. I was guiding there
a week back when some kids started to throw stones/ rocks at us. Unfortunately they also
had two trout they had taken without a licence or a rod. I took off after them, (because of
the rocks), and when I caught up with the young boy with the trout, I videoed his
response to my questions. His two mates who had been throwing the stones had taken off
and left him. I then came home and asked the face Book community if I should post the
video, they said yes, so I did.
The response from the local Waitahanui community was rapid and somewhat severe!!
However in all the comments, (and there are heaps of them), I learnt a thing or two and it
certainly isn’t just “Black and White” when it comes to the rules, certainly in the Locals
eyes. They have some customary rights that do need looking at. My point, if you start
poaching, (taking fish without a fly rod), and get away with it, then at some stage do they
think a Net is a better way of taking trout. Once that starts the fishery takes a hit. That has
always been my point. I think DOC just caught some poachers with a net!!! I wonder if
they started small, a trout here a trout there. Me personally I would like all the locals to
have rods and have the ability to take trout for the table using this method. I would be
more than willing to give my time and teach the young ones some skills. Anyway I made
some bad choices with my words to start with and got roasted, it has been an interesting
week. I would like to think the Waitahanui is a safe place to fish. I won’t be going back
in there until I have had a powwow with the locals face to face and hopefully this is going
to be set up soon. There are fish in there.
3
So I have just gone over the hill for the past week as I have been quite busy guiding. The
Hinemaiaia has plenty of older trout in there and they have been smashing the Red Bead
Reaper. I mentioned that this little Nymph would come into its own and it certainly has
now on the Hine. They have even been hitting it on the swing, as it lifts off the bottom. I
had a family of three on here last Saturday. We did our training down low in the river and
then drove upstream and hunted a few out. The young ten year old boy managed two all
by himself. I have forgotten the joy this job brings me when a client hooks up, plays it
and then I net it, smile from ear to ear! The Hinemaiaia certainly fishes better when the
level is up a wee bit and that was the case on Saturday. The fish don’t spook as easily. I
took two awesome guys out Monday. I have guided Mark a few times now, in fact he was
one of the original ones from the lodge. He bought a friend this time Tim and we had a
fantastic half day. Getting them to do things that were outside of their skill set was neat as
they picked things up super fast. Roll cast and fishing with weight, line control and
casting in general. These two are super ready for the summer season ahead and were just
neat people in general. Heaps of trout in the Hinemaiaia, please watch the Redds!!
I haven’t fished the Tauranga Taupo for a few weeks. However being so low I would be
hitting anything with depth. I would be using stealth as much as possible. Nice long
leaders and slightly weighted nymphs. The 3.8 Ml Tungsten Reaper is a killer in these
conditions. Just enough to get down but not heavy enough to lesson your drift. Put a Red
Bead Reaper on the point and Boom Baby you have a killer rig. I think the Red Bead
gives it that interesting, “what was that” appeal, it’s not in your face but has attraction. As
I have said the end of the season has always been good for this type of nymph. I bet the
upper reaches are full of the slimy little buggers. I said fish the deep water and that
definitely means the riffles.
Like the TT I haven’t fished the Tongariro for ages and I don’t have anything to go on it,
however good grief it must have plenty of trout right throughout its length. Last time I
was in there with a client some of the deeper pools in the mid-section were full of trout. I
have had a fantastic season on the Tongariro and I am super excited about the Brown
trout season next year.
So the back country season started up on the 1st. I went mad and hiked into the back of
beyond, camped the night before opening and then did a massive beat. There were trout
all the way through and all of them took the Blue Raptor and the 3.8 ml Tungsten Reaper.
This is a super fantastic rig for all back country streams. I found the fish to be a little beat
up from all the high water they have had to struggle with this winter but they will now
gain condition quickly. I saw numerous hatches coming out on the Thursday.
So please be safe out there, summer is just around the corner.
Cheers Shane, aka RiverDog! – Shane French – www.taupofishing.co.nz
Fishy Tales
If you do have a report, success story, or anecdote to share then just send it to
iconp@ihug.co.nz . Happy Fishing and Tight Lines – Freddy Da Fish.
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How’s the fishing in Turangi been this winter? Three Club Members with a triple hook
up in the Tongariro’s Troll Hole. Photo courtesy of Brendan James.
QUOTABLE QUOTES
Hard-hitting flashing fellows these, bred and reared in no protected pond, but in the cold
crystal mountain waters. Any angler who has matched his skill with one of Nature's trout
and then with the pampered stall-fed darlings of the intensively stocked preserve, need
not be told the difference between the two.
Joe Godfrey, Jr.
LAST CLUB NIGHT
Last month we had a ‘Bring and Buy’ sale and social evening. It was a very enjoyable
evening.
NEXT CLUB NIGHT – Tuesday 20th – 7.30pm
This month we have Kent Fraser talking to us. Kent is a very experienced fly-fisher,
having chased monster Taimen in Mongolia, Salmon in Alaska, Bonefish in Rarotonga
and of course Trout here in New Zealand. Kent will be talking about the delights of and
techniques for summer fishing. This is sure to be an interesting night, and we hope to see
you all there.
5
INFORMATION SHARING
As well as having a guest speaker on Club Nights we would like to give an opportunity for
some of our own Club Members to share knowledge on any fly fishing subjects.
Member Speakers
Besides having a major Speaker on Club Nights we would like to have some of our own
Club Members to speak on any fly fishing subject for 10 – 15 minutes or so.
Some subjects could be:
Local fishing spots.
National / Taupo fishing regulations.
Riparian rights, access.
Clothing and equipment ideas / tips.
Saltwater fishing, what rods / flies.
So, Members please get out there and do some research to enlighten us all.
TIPS AND TRICKS
The committee can arrange club members to offer advice for subjects requested by
members – also as a 10 minute introduction prior to the Club Night speaker. If there is an
issue that you want information on, or a tip or trick you need to know about; then contact
any Committee Member with the detail. We will arrange for someone to respond at a club
night with the answer or advice.
CLUB TRIPS 2015
February –Ngongotaha River and Rotorua Lakes
March – Lake Otamangakau
May – Ngongotaha River and Rotorua Lakes
August – Tongariro and Tauranga Taupo
October – Kai Iwi Lakes
November – Lake Otamangakau
November – Tuition weekend
The NSF committee arrange various Club Trips over the year to different parts of the
country. If you would like to be involved, or have an idea for a trip please let one of your
committee know.
WHY WE FISH
You can't say enough about fishing. Though the sport of kings, it's just what the deadbeat
ordered.
Thomas McGuane -In Silent Seasons- 1978
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FISHING BUDDIES SOUGHT
The intention is to display a list of names of Club Members that are keen on finding a
‘buddy’ to go fishing with, either on a regular basis or just for a day. In essence it’s a flyfishing dating service…
Name
Ron Blair
Charles Wilma
Les Rose
Daryl Sinclair
Graham Carter
Lloyd Altham
Availability
Contact Details
Anytime, now has a brand new 14.4
Marco with 60hp e_tec Evenrude for
serious fishing Salt or Fresh
ron.blair@xtra.co.nz
Anytime but would prefer
home 09 963 2020
Mid-week
mobile 021 067 3253
chwilma@yahoo.com
Retired and is happy to take another home 09 4183634
person fishing during the week.
Has a small 2 person boat.
Anytime he can get a pass.
foursinclairs@xtra.co.nz
Lives in Hamilton, keen on
021 026 00437
weekday / mid-week trips.
07 855 1833
Has 12' Pontoon boat /15 HP Honda. Mob. 021 0295 9167
Available most time, but prefer
Home 09 420 3120
weekdays.
email-lloyd@skysupply.co.nz
So, if you are keen to find someone to share the cost and the fun of a fishing expedition
with, then send in your details and we will get it all started. Send details to
iconp@ihug.co.nz
Brendan
with
6.1pds of
Taupo
Rainbow
fun. Photo
courtesy of
Brendan
James.
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JOKE OF THE MONTH
A little old lady answered a knock on the door one day, to be
confronted by a well-dressed young man carrying a vacuum cleaner.
'Good morning,' said the young man. 'If I could take a couple minutes of your time,
I would like to demonstrate the very latest in high-powered vacuum cleaners.”
''Go away!'' said the old lady. ''I'm broke and haven't got any money!'' and
she proceeded to close the door.
Quick as a flash, the young man wedged his foot in the door and pushed it
wide open...
''Don't be too hasty!'' he said. ''Not until you have at least seen my
demonstration.'' And with that, he emptied a bucket of horse manure onto
her hallway carpet.
“Now if this vacuum cleaner does not remove
all traces of this horse manure from your carpet, Madam, I will personally
eat the remainder."
The old lady stepped back and said, "Well let me get you a fork, because they
cut off my electricity this morning."
MOHAKA RAFTING TRIP, EARLY 2016
At the time of writing, three members have expressed interest in this trip (four if I opt to
go.) We need eight to keep the costs as low as possible and to be able to advance plans
with Mountain Valley Lodge. Email me at de.smith@xtra.co.nz or see me next club night.
Dennis.
Harry and I stayed at Mountain Valley Lodge on the Mohaka a couple of months ago
now. We talked to the rafting guides who had organised the trip last January and they
would be very pleased to see us back in the summer. The lodge owner was not as
enthusiastic as he is promoting the place as a wedding venue. Consequently he did not
want to offer any specific dates that we could consider (should the requisite 8 anglers be
found.)
The committee endeavours to set trip dates so that there is at least two weeks interval
between trips. Over the new moon period 12 – 14 February there will be a visit to the
Ngongataha and Rotorua lakes. A trip to the Big O is set for 11 – 13 March, the same
moon phase. The river section of the Rodd & Gunn Trophy will probably be held in
between in late February.
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This leaves a couple of date options for a Mohaka trip: end of January or late March. The
latter would probably suit Mountain Valley better. On the other hand, the January period
might suit us as fine weather is more certain.
So with that introduction, who would be interested in signing up the Mohaka? We need 8
people – 4 on each raft – to keep costs as low as possible. For those unfamiliar with the
set-up, the past three trips have involved anglers travelling down on the Friday, spending
Saturday and Sunday on the river – camping overnight – and returning to Auckland on
the Monday. The cost would be in the $400 – 450 range. This covers food, lodging, 2
rafting guides, camping gear, etc.
And having said that, we could also explore doing the 20 or so km of river in one day if
that was preferred by the majority.
Names to me at de.smith@xtra.co.nz. Places will be allocated in order of registration,
even though the trip is not yet confirmed. Some people unfortunately missed out last year!
Dennis Smith
TUITION TRIP FOR NOVICE ANGLERS
SOUGHT
-
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
In the past the club has periodically offered a two day course on “Approaching a Stream”
for novice anglers. We can organize this again for early December provided at least five
members wish to attend. It includes an overnight stay at the River Lodge in the
Karangahake Gorge, and to secure this accommodation (as by December, the holiday
period is starting to accelerate) we need to know promptly whether there is sufficient
interest.
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Tutors will be experienced anglers from the club. On the Saturday, after an initial
discussion on gear, those taking part will go off to various sections of the Ohinemuri in
groups comprising one tutor and two or three course participants.
Course content
The course will broadly cover the following:
A run through of rod and tackle requirements, setting up the line, knots and rig.
A basic understanding of what flies represent what food.
Reading the river, identifying the likely water in which the trout will be lying and
choosing the appropriate rig, plus useful tips and techniques regarding casting, mending
and retrieving line to ensure that the fly is presented as naturally as possible.
Working your way through a pool methodically.
Striking, playing and landing the trout including handling and release.
Basic fishing etiquette.
On the Sunday, participants have the opportunity to put some of what they have learnt
into practice, on the Ohinemuri or Waitawheta Rivers.
This short course is intended to assist members with limited angling experience by
improving their chances of catching trout. The course will not provide casting tuition and
is not intended as a guided tour of where to fish the Ohinemuri.
Cost and enrolment
The cost of the course will be about $100. This includes one night’s accommodation at
the Lodge, a contribution towards tutors’ costs and a shared dinner (BBQ or similar) on
the Saturday night. Transport and additional food requirements to be met by the
individual participants. Transport can be informally coordinated if required.
The course is open to paid-up members of the club. Places will be allocated on a first
come (with payment) first served basis. We cannot obviously rule out the chance of a
serious flood on the river on the chosen dates and if that should occur and the course was
to be cancelled for that reason, participants would be liable for their share of the
accommodation cost.
The trip will be co-ordinated by Faith Moon. Please contact her by e-mail
(faith.moon@xtra.co.nz) if you would like to attend.
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LAKE OTAMANGAKAU CLUB TRIP – 13TH 14TH 15TH NOVEMBER
Dave Symes has booked 14 cabins at the Tongariro Holiday Park for this Trip, 13th 14th
15st of November, and will be asking for expressions of interest at next weeks Club
Meeting. If you are interested then let Dave know, either on Club Night, or email –
dssymes@xtra.co.nz . Costs are $45 per night.
John C with his evenings catch on the Big O
FLY TYING: WEE WETS WITH DAVE McLELLAN
As you are probably aware, David McLellan is an experienced exponent of fishing with
wee wets. This is a traditional way of river fishing (pre-dating dry flies as we know them
today and nymphing) in which one or two small flies are cast across the current and
allowed to swing downstream. The flies imitate either invertebrates rising to the surface
or tiny bait fish. Casting is easy because there is not the aerodynamic resistance
associated with dry flies or indicators. The method allows a lot of water to be covered
and fish virtually catch themselves. It is best suited to wide, relatively shallow rivers,
such as the Tukituki and many in the South Island. The club’s DVD collection includes
one showing David putting this into practice on the Tukituki.
David has offered to give some advice on tying wee wets starting on the 20 October
club night at 6.30 pm. He will put together a pack of the required materials for each
person, so all you need to bring is a vice, etc. To facilitate this he needs to know numbers:
if you are interested please register with Dennis Smith de.smith@xtra.co.nz . Note that on
the 20th, casting recommences as indicated elsewhere in this newsletter, and the fly tying
sessions being overseen by Yoshi will stop until next winter.
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CASTING TUITION
Daylight saving arrived on 27 September and casting tuition will re-commence at the
Club Night of 20 October and continue prior to all Club Nights until the March 2016
club night. Meet on the lawn outside the Cruising Club at 6.30pm if you want some
guidance on any aspect of your technique. Bring your own rod, set up with some form of
safe fly.
In addition to the Club Night assistance, and subject to a sufficient response from
members, a series of three 2½ hour clinics will be held on Sunday morning, 1, 8 and 22
November, commencing 10 am at Sylvan Park Reserve – the grassed area immediately
on the right as you drive in. (The 2nd and/or 3rd sessions may be held on the other side of
the lake adjacent to the rowing club where water access is easier.)
The clinics will be run by Yoshi Nakagawa of Totally Fly and will primarily be aimed at
those new to fly casting. The course will cover basic overhead casting, shooting line,
double-hauling, roll casting and how to adjust casting technique to compensate for wind
and obstacles. There will be a charge of $75 payable to Yoshi through the club. Each
participant will get the DVD Manic Guide to Fly Casting.
There will be single clinic at a later date for more advanced casters who nonetheless feel
their casting would benefit from some expert advice.
Register with Duncan Frew iconp@ihug.co.nz.
Pay in advance to ASB Bank North Shore Flyfishers Incorporated
00 and enter flycasting in the reference box.
12-3209-0190179-
NSFF CLUB CALENDARS
We are still having some difficulties with the pricing of the Calendars but hope to have
that sorted soon.
In the meantime anyone who would like to send through their photos to potentially go
into the Club Calendar please do so. All fly-fishing related photos are eligible, be they of
fish caught, beautiful scenery, or anything else fly-fishing at all.
Please send your photos through to iconp@ihug.co.nz. These photos are for use in the
Club Calendar only and will not be distributed elsewhere, shared online, or even used in
the Club Newsletter without your express written permission.
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RECIPE OF THE MONTH
This following recipe is from the Jamie Oliver website www.jamieoliver.com, and it
looks delicious. His site is full of excellent ideas and well worth a visit! I go there
whenever looking for a new idea at home.
Smoked Trout And Jersey Royal Salad
Ingredients
800 g Jersey Royals or other new potatoes, scrubbed
2 tablespoons crème fraîche
1 lemon, zest and juice of
1 red onion, peeled and very finely sliced
1 small bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked and roughly chopped
100 g jar Delicia's capers, drained
1 punnet salad cress
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
300 g lightly smoked trout, from sustainable sources, (go catch one)
Method
Place your potatoes in a pan of cold water, bring to the boil and simmer until cooked.
Drain and allow to cool.
In a bowl, mix the crème fraîche with the lemon zest and juice. Add the potatoes, onion,
parsley and capers, then snip your cress into the bowl. Season with salt and pepper and
mix well.
Divide between four serving bowls and flake the smoked trout over the top.
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LAKE QUALITY RESULTS HIGHLIGHT ACTION NEEDED
Media Release – Environment Bay Of Plenty – 11/09/2015
Water quality in many of the Rotorua-Te Arawa lakes has declined slightly over the past
year, according to latest annual monitoring results, highlighting the importance of longterm sustainable water quality solutions.
The Trophic Level Index (TLI) for the lakes is measured annually and provides a
measure of lake water quality. TLIs are calculated using four separate water quality
measurements – total nitrogen, total phosphorous, water clarity and chlorophyll-a.
Latest water quality results show improvement in just three of the 12 lakes over the past
year (2014/15), with the remainder either stable or declining. Bay of Plenty Regional
Water and Land Plan have TLI objectives for each of the Rotorua Te Arawa lakes, with
10 of the 12 lakes currently not meeting their TLI targets.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council Lakes Operations Manager Andy Bruere says lake water
quality can fluctuate for a variety of reasons.
“Water quality can be impacted by things such as climatic conditions and rainfall.
Although many lakes reached their TLIs last year (2013/14), this year TLI’s were
impacted by a warm, settled summer. This was particularly true for lakes Rotorua and
Rotoehu, which saw a decline in water quality.
“To complement the TLIs, we have a number of different scientific monitoring systems
that measure the environmental quality of each lake. These systems include
cyanobacterial (algae) monitoring, live monitoring buoys which collect data on lake
water quality 24/7 on some of the lakes, native and introduced fish monitoring, as well as
water chemistry testing.”
Improved water quality was recorded in lakes Okaro, Rerewhakaaitu and Tikitapu,
while previously improving levels in lakes Rotorua, Rotoehu and Rotoiti declined
this year. Stable water quality was recorded in lakes Ōkataina, Ōkāreka, Rotoma
and Rotomahana, while further long-term deterioration was recorded in lakes
Tarawera and Rotokakahi.
Mr Bruere says this year’s results reinforce the importance of long-term thinking for
improving water quality.
“There has been significant work into lakes restoration over recent years with the long
term trend for many lakes improving, as indicated by some of our lakes reaching their
targets last year. The decline in TLI for some lakes (not withstanding climatic variations)
highlights the importance of long term sustainable solutions to protect water quality. ”
“The decrease in water quality levels for 2014/15 by no means takes away from the work
done to-date, or its importance. Rather, it reinforces the fact that there is no quick or easy
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fix for cleaning up our lakes, but that action must continue for the benefit of our
community, the environment and our economy.”
FISH & GAME VOWS ‘STRONG OPPOSITION’ TO TROUT FARMING
PROPOSALS
Media Release – Fish And Game NZ – 17/09/2015
Fish & Game has confirmed its strong opposition to commercial trout farming following
revelations of a Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study promoting, among other
initiatives, the development of a commercial trout industry.
The study, which was undertaken to identify economic opportunities within the region,
was commissioned by the Ministries of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
and Primary Industries (MPI) in partnership with the Bay of Connections.
Trout farming has been identified as a ‘key priority for regional development’ after the
launch of the study, and the formulation of an action plan endorsed at a workshop
involving more than 120 regional leaders and stakeholders.
Fish & Game Eastern Region Manager Andy Garrick says that as the primary statutory
manager and guardian of trout in New Zealand waters, Fish & Game is “utterly
staggered” to have not been consulted or invited to participate in the development of the
strategy and more recent implementation planning.
To hear about the plan through the media is very disturbing, especially when the idea
comes from a partnership involving local, regional and central government who should
be aware of the law as it stands – which explicitly bans trout farming. They should be
upholding the law, not being dismissive of it, Mr. Garrick says.
“The Conservation Act specifically prohibits the buying and selling of trout and domestic
farming of the fish.”
Mr. Garrick says that if the proposals are taken further, Fish & Game will vigorously
oppose them alongside sports fishing organisations “and a large number of New
Zealanders who are passionate about trout fishing who’ve repeatedly expressed their
opposition to trout farming.”
Fish & Game’s position is based on a number of key concerns, Mr. Garrick says.
“A key issue centres on poaching – we believe that the setting up of a legitimate
commercial market for trout would inevitably result in a black market like that for paua.
15
“Trout poaching during the spawning season has long been an issue within the Bay of
Plenty and Taupo regions.
“It not only removes adults and breeding stock, but can cause extensive damage to
spawning habitat, eggs and juvenile fish which in turn, can seriously impact on fish
populations and opportunities for law-abiding anglers.
“It also harms local businesses and communities which depend on the millions of dollars
trout angling and tourism generates for these regions,” Mr. Garrick said.
Any trout farming would be highly likely to lead to an increase in both poaching and
habitat damage, he adds, so that anti-poaching efforts would have to be stepped up.
“They are currently funded entirely from Fish & Game licenceholder income as Fish &
Game receives no revenue or support from local or central government.
“This would impact on the organisation’s ability to deliver other critical species and
habitat management programmes.”
Mr. Garrick says that other biosecurity-type concerns relate to the risk of disease being
introduced to wild populations which while not high, remains a risk.
Another potential issue is the genetic impact on wild fish that might occur if breeding
stock was imported to enhance growth rates and flesh quality.
Last but far from least there are cultural, recreational, tourism and economic values to
consider, he says.
“New Zealand’s internationally acclaimed wild trout fishery was established and nurtured
for more than a century, not by local or central government, but through the voluntary
efforts and financial support of anglers, and various organisations representing their
interests.”
And Fish & Game hatcheries have spent more than 50 years producing the best breeding
stock possible to release throughout the country’s lakes, he says.
“If anyone can claim a property right to New Zealand’s trout fishery it would be the
anglers of this country who’ve made it quite clear on numerous occasions that they don’t
want commercial trout farming.
“Over 100,000 anglers annually fish for trout in New Zealand and they are passionate
about their sport and the opportunity to harvest free range trout for the table.”
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Mr. Garrick says the economic contribution trout fishing makes to the regional economy
in the Rotorua Lakes area alone was estimated to be over $17m 25 years ago – a figure
which is likely to have risen significantly.
An investigation of the economic value of the Taupo fishery indicated that it injected
$29m into the economy in 2012.
“Why would you want to jeopardise this revenue by allowing commercial trout farming?”
“While the Regional Growth Study makes bold claims about the contribution commercial
trout farming along with other initiatives could make to the regional aquaculture target of
$250m sales by
2025, and the national target of $1billion, it doesn’t appear there have been any
investigations into its financial viability, or reports produced to support the figures.
“Furthermore, there has been no assessment of the potential impact on wild trout
populations, the fishery, or its management, let alone the environment.
“There are many sound reasons to support the ongoing ban on commercial trout farming.
(Lets hope) commonsense prevails and that everyone can avoid a lengthy and bitter legal
battle.”
FURTHER INFORMATION: Fish & Game North Island Communications Advisor
Grant Dyson 021-646 267
The
early
angler may
catch
the
Trout,
but
they can also
catch the ice.
Photo
courtesy
Brendan
James.
of
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NZFFA PRESIDENT DAVID HAYNES REPORT SEP 2015
Published on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 - 12:00
When seemingly unrelated events come together and resonate to produce something bad,
that could be a reasonable definition of "a perfect storm".
Right now there are three such events on the horizon that could adversely impact on our
world-class wild trout fishery:
1. The proposal by Ngati Tuwharetoa to farm trout for cultural purposes at the Tongariro
National Trout Hatchery.
There are probably only a handful of anglers unaware of the ‘Agreement in Principle’
(AIP) between Ngati Tuwharetoa and the Office of Treaty Settlements whereby the latter
will be given the Tongariro National Trout Centre including currently unused raceways in
which they wish to establish a trout rearing facility.
When this first surfaced in June this year, considerable disquiet rippled throughout the
angling community.
Since then letters to the Office of Treaty Settlements (OTS) from Graham Whyman,
chairman of the Tongariro Fishery Advisory Committee, and Bryce Johnson, CEO of NZ
Fish & Game, seeking clarification of the AIP have not been answered and OTS and DoC
seem to have gone into hiding to avoid the issue. Nevertheless, the issue has not gone
away.
2. The expiry of the Customs Import Prohibition (Trout) Order 2010 (as amended
November 2012).
This Order prohibits the import of any trout product, whether excrement, semen, egg or
flesh, unless special dispensation is granted by the Minister of Conservation.
Originally established in 1998 to plug a loophole in the Conservation Act which would
have allowed sale of trout, the prohibition order has been renewed triennially since
then. The current Order is due to expire 7 November 2015.
3. The Bay of Plenty Regional Councils economic development strategy.
The recent release of the economic development strategy by Bay of Plenty Regional
Council, which builds on the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) 2015-2015
aquaculture strategy, explicitly identifies commercial trout farming as an economic
activity it wishes to promote.
Fish & Game was not consulted by BoP Regional Council prior to release of the
council’s strategy and it is understandably upset by that failure.
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So here is the perfect storm - If the trustees acting on behalf of Ngati Tuwharetoa get
their way then surely other Iwis could reasonably ask "if they can do it, why can't we?"
Many anglers are concerned that the Tuwharetoa AIP is the thin end of the wedge of
national commercial trout farming. And if the prohibition on the importation of trout
product was to lapse and allow fish farmers in Canada, say, to send over farmed trout
would it not be reasonable for NZ based fish farmers to say "if they can sell it over here,
why can't we?".
Whilst both Section 26ZI of the Conservation Act 1987 and Section 301 of the Fisheries
Act 1996 would need to be changed to enable trout to be raised for the table, this could
happen under a determined Government with a bit of shuffling of its Parliamentary
legislative timetable.
Then to cap it all, other Councils and aquaculture enterprises may see the BoP Regional
Council intention as a green light to farm trout, despite it being more likely that they have
fallen prey to a mediocre management consultancy which failed to check facts when
extolling the benefits of trout farming to glib Council managers.
The reasons for the resistance to trout farming in NZ have been most succinctly put by Dr
Adam Daniels in his 2013 paper to Auckland/Waikato Fish & Game
(http://auckland.fishandgame.org.nz/sites/default/files/Auckland_Waikato/...).
The threats to the sustainability of our world-class and globally rare wild trout fishery are
five-fold:
1. The introduction or spread of disease by farmed fish may irreversibly devastate wild
trout populations.
2. Creating a market for trout will increase poaching and reducing legitimate angler
opportunities.
3. Escaped fish pose a serious threat to the genetic health of wild trout.
4. Water pollution from trout farm effluent has significant effects that persist for up to 12
km downstream.
5. Antibiotics and chemical treatments used to keep overcrowded fish alive in trout farms
may impact human health and make wild fish less valued by anglers due to
contamination.
Having been raised as an angler in the UK where the majority of fishing is in man-made
ponds, stocked with intensively reared flabby fish with deformed fins, ragged, bitten tails,
scarred and pock marked skins wrapped around pallid flesh that tastes like mud, it is a
no-brainer for New Zealand anglers to fight and prevent even the tiniest of risks to the
continued health of our wild trout fisheries.
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Andrew with two nice Big ‘O’ Rainbows from earlier this year. Lake Otamangakau is
open again after the winter spawning and the fish are waiting for you. Photo courtesy of
Andrew MacPherson.
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100 FACTS ABOUT TROUT – THE WILD TROUT TRUST
The following is the first of a series of articles that cover 100 facts about Trout that you
may not know. It has been taken from the Wild Trout Trust Website www.wildtrout.org .
These people seem to do great work in the UK and their site is well worth a visit.
Genetics & evolution
1.
Genetically different trout are capable of spawning together and producing
viable offspring but many have remained distinct for thousands of years. This
happens because they have different life strategies e.g. their choice of spawning
locations and timing or adaptations to exploit different niches within the food
chain.
2. Brown trout are one of the most genetically diverse vertebrates known. There
is far more genetic variation present across British populations of wild brown
trout than between any populations in the entire human race.
3. Brown trout have between 38 and 42 pairs of chromosomes. Humans have
only 23 pairs.
4. Brown trout (including sea trout) belong to a single, polytypic, species. They
are, however, so variable and adaptable that attempts have been made to assign
them to at least 50 separate species.
5. Rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss and brown trout Salmo trutta are in the
same family (the Salmonidae) but are different species in different genera. They
have the same ancestors but divided into two groups around 15-20 million years
ago. Oncorhynchus became isolated in the North Pacific and Salmo in the North
Atlantic.
6. Rainbow and brown trout do not interbreed in the wild although ‘brownbows’
have been produced on fish farms.
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7. Large trout can eat large prey. For example, it is thought that large New
Zealand trout feed on the periodic plagues of mice.
FISHERY RANGERS NET A BIG CATCH OF OFFENDERS
Rotorua Daily Post – 5/10/2015
Noticing a vehicle parked in an unusual spot, a keen eyed Department of Conservation
ranger stopped to take a look, resulting in one of the largest poaching apprehensions the
Taupo Sport Fishery team has seen in recent years.
A group of four people poaching a small spawning stream using a gill net, where they
had caught 27 rainbow trout, including 8 ripe females.
"While it is satisfying that my team successfully apprehended these offenders it is really
damaging for a small stream to be poached like this. Netting is indiscriminate, and can
cause huge damage to the trout population of a stream if it goes on unchecked," Taupo
Fishery manager Kim Alexander said.
"It's really disappointing to see locals wilfully damaging their own resources when it has
been such a good fishing season. People should pick up a rod, buy a licence and get out
fishing if they want some trout, rather than resorting to netting and other illegal
methods."
The Taupo Fishery team has had an active year, having detected over 81 offences against
the Conservation Act and the Taupo Fishery Regulations since July 2014.
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The team has detected 30 more offences this year in comparison to the same period last
year. Of these, 42 prosecutions have been undertaken over the year.
While the most recent apprehension was significant, the bulk of the offences detected are
at the lesser end of fishery related offending, including possessing undersized fish and
fishing in closed or restricted waters.
Ms Alexander said offending which negatively impacted the fishery was "hugely
important to us as the fishery is a valued cultural, recreational and tourism resource".
If you see anything suspicious, call 027 290 7758
TAUPO FISHERY REPORT – SEPTEMBER
River fishing
Tongariro
A total of 149 angler interviews on the Tongariro River during September produced an
overall average catch rate of 0.35 fish per hour (1 legal sized trout every 2 hours and 50
minutes). The fifteen rainbows measured and weighed by staff during September
averaged 498 mm and 1.42 kg (3.1 lb) with an overall condition factor of 41.5. The
heaviest rainbow weighed was a jack measuring 540 mm and weighing 1.73 kg (3.8 lb)
caught nymphing at the Reed Pool in the lower river. Tongariro anglers rated the fish that
they were catching at 7.5 out of ten, their catch rate at 6.4/10 and their angling enjoyment
at 9.3/10 during September.
Tauranga Taupo
The 11 rainbows measured on the Tauranga Taupo River averaged 519 mm and 1.53 kg
(3.4 lb) with an average condition factor of 39. The heaviest fish this month was a jack
measuring 570 mm and weighing 2.2 kg (4.8 lb) with a condition factor of 43 caught wet
lining between the main car park and Maniapoto’s Bend. Tauranga Taupo anglers rated
the fish that they were catching at 7.3/10, their catch rate at 7.1/10 and their angling
enjoyment at 9.6/10. Several anglers made the comment that the fishing seemed better
during August than September perhaps consistent with the large runs of fish that entered
the rivers during August.
Hinemaiaia
The six rainbows measured on the Hinemaiaia River averaged 508 mm and 1.3 kg (2.9
lb) with an average condition factor of 36.3. The heaviest rainbow measured was a jack
measuring 540 mm and 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) caught nymphing between the SH1 Bridge and the
Cliff Pool. Anglers on the Hinemaiaia River rated the fish that they were catching at
7.2/10, their catch rate at 6.6/10 and their angling enjoyment at 9.5/10. The fish in the
Hinemaiaia River tend to run earlier than other eastern tributaries and although there are
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smaller pulses of fresh fish still moving through, there are a lot of fish still currently or
near finished spawning in the river.
Trap data
Waipa fish trap
A total of 6 browns were trapped at the Waipa Stream fish trap (a tributary of the
Tongariro River near Rangipo) during September. These browns averaged 606 mm and
2.82 kg (6.2 lb) with an overall condition factor of 45.5. The heaviest brown was a
maiden hen measuring 650 mm and weighing 3.7 kg (8.14 lb). The brown trout run
peaked this year during June and has gradually dropped away over the past three months
(Fig.1).
September also saw a run of 260 rainbows with these fish averaging 489 mm and 1.32 kg
(2.9 lb) with an average condition factor of 40.8. The heaviest rainbow trapped this
month was a hen measuring 580 mm and weighing 2.2 kg (4.8 lb) spawning for the first
time. This year, the run of rainbow trout peaked during August with 476 rainbows being
trapped during that month alone. August also coincided with the highest monthly rainfall
recorded of 341 mm. During more recent years, the months of September and October
have been the peak months for runs of rainbow trout and with over 100 rainbows trapped
during the first 5 days of October, it will be interesting to see whether the rainbow trout
run increases again during October or continues to decline.
Figure 1. Number of rainbow and brown trout trapped in the Waipa Stream fish trap
between March and September 2015 and monthly rainfall totals.
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Tongariro National Trout Centre fish trap
Consistent with the run of trout in the Waipa Stream, September also saw a drop in the
rainbow trout run in the Waihukahuka Stream at the Tongariro National Trout Centre. A
total of 117 rainbows were trapped during September which is the lowest monthly count
since May (Fig.2). The months of June, July and August produced 544 rainbows which
equates to 58% of the total run so far this year. The rainbows trapped during September
averaged 468 mm and 1.3 kg with an overall condition factor of 45. The heaviest rainbow
trapped was a jack measuring 540 mm and weighing 2.1 kg (4.6 lb). Two browns were
also trapped during September to take the annual total to 27 this year which is high for
this particular stream. The brown trout run peaked during June and July when 20 browns
were trapped.
Figure 2. Number of rainbow and brown trout trapped in the Waihukahuka Stream fish
trap at the Tongariro National Trout Centre during 2015.
Drift dive data
Counts of spawning trout on the rivers and streams commenced during September this
year once the rivers were clear enough to dive after a relatively wet August. Consistent
with the good numbers of trout in the Waipa Stream fish trap during August and
September, the counts made during the drift dives were very good during September with
the highest counts made on the Tauranga Taupo River and Waiotaka Stream since 2001.
The count made on the Waimarino was the highest peak count since records began in
1997. With drift dive counts scheduled through until December it will be interesting to
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see whether the runs of rainbows continue to build in October or whether the main runs
were earlier this year. Nevertheless, there are a lot of fish present in the rivers with
spawning well underway.
AT THE END ARE THE RAINBOWS
Hugh Creasy
It is warm. It is spring. We are surrounded by butterflies those fluttering ghosts that seem
to fly with so much purpose yet have so little brain.
They are not slaves to reason but are the nearest creatures to automata that nature creates.
What progressions of evolution left them beautiful but anchored their development?
Yet they persist, survivors in their niche – nature’s vacuum filled. The monarchs are out,
their colours scream “Don’t touch me,” and it works.
In autumn they will fall like dismounted knights in fading panoply – wounded and
twitching near death. Spring is their time of glory among the cherry blossom and the
rhododendron flowers.
On the lupin, by the water, a caddis fly shivers in the sunshine. It came from the stream
bed, one of thousands struggling through the quick current, bound for the light. In the
stream it was weighted by a hard case, and it fed on captured insects and grazed on plant
matter.
The caddis fly’s ability to build has been utilised by French artist Hubert Duprat who
removes the larvae from their cases and places them in a tank with flakes of gold and
chips of jewels and precious stones. The caddis rebuild their cases from these materials,
then hatch out, leaving their precious homes behind. Duprat mounts these and sells them.
Caddis and butterflies are closely related, but while the butterfly carries its beauty, the
caddis is capable of creating it – with a little help.
On the stream bank, where blackberry and nightshade bloom, the mayfly dries its wings.
They are opaque at first, when it comes to the surface, but become clear as the insect
matures in its new environment.
In the south, in open country, they cling to the tussock, and after a hatch the tussock
stems glisten with their shining wings, and when they fly, and mate, and the males die
and the females dot, dot, dot the water’s surface as they fly upstream, laying eggs as they
go, the trout rise, rise and rise again, and the swallows dart and fill their bellies with the
dry bodies spent and drifting to the water.
Their eggs are heavy and sticky, and once they are pushed through the surface tension,
they swiftly sink and stick to the stony bottom.
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Spring is the time of the Dobson fly, whose fat grubs have lived in deep water for two or
three years before moving to the stream’s edge, ready to pupate. They lie in wait beneath
stones, preparing to pounce on mayfly nymphs or caddis larvae.
They grip their prey in sharp pincers. They are voracious feeders, with the appearance of
fat centipedes. But apart from the six legs on the forepart of the body, the rest of what
looks like limbs, are gills. The adult insects are clumsy fliers that make a distinctive
whirring noise when they fly.
Their significance to the angler is at the juvenile stage when they can be found just prior
to pupating. Their fat bodies with a hard carapace at the head make ideal live bait. A
hook pushed through the carapace will last a lot longer than ordinary earthworms.
Weather is the determining factor in angler success. El Nino will this year play its part,
and the gales of spring may be extended and last till autumn. But there are always still
days and calm evenings between storms, and when a good one comes the opportunity
must not be missed.
The flies tied during winter will be tested after opening day. I find the tying of endless
Hare and Coppers and Sawyer Pheasant Tails to be a boring exercise. I know that these
two patterns are really all a nymph fisherman needs.
A trout doesn’t count the segments of a fly’s body, nor is it fussy about leg joints
painstakingly knotted to represent the real thing, but size and colour do matter. During
the winter I have added some odd materials to old patterns.
Foil from Christmas decorations adds glitz to nymphs, but could have the effect of
frightening a cautious fish, and the fluffy thorax made from an old fox cape may simply
be a sodden lump when wet.
Once the excitement of the first fish of the season is over I will be experimenting with
sparsely tied wingless wet flies.
Brown partridge is the main ingredient for hackles and tails, with various body colours
and materials. I’m hoping these flies will work equally as well fished upstream as
nymphs.
With dry flies I stick to convention. Good hackles are too expensive to waste, and the
rewards of dry fly fishing give satisfaction enough.
The rivers have changed. Heavy flooding during winter has destroyed many productive
reaches of the rivers, but has created many more. It will take time and perseverance to
discover the new holding waters, and it may take some time for the fish to adapt to the
river’s change.
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The insects of the river will colonise the pools and runs, then anglers will make it a
summer of discovery in their search for fish.
EDITOR’S NOTE
…..A Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study promoting, among other initiatives, the
development of a commercial Marijuana and Methamphetamine (P) industry.
The study, which was undertaken to identify economic opportunities within the region,
was commissioned by the Ministries of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
and Primary Industries (MPI) in partnership with the Bay of Connections.
Marijuana farming and Industrial quantity Methamphetamine labs have been identified
as a ‘key priority for regional development’ after the launch of the study, and the
formulation of an action plan endorsed at a workshop involving more than 120 regional
leaders and stakeholders……
How would you feel if you read the above information? Two Government ministries
directly involved in the development of illegal industries. Guess what, that’s exactly what
has just happened!!!
Substitute the words Marijuana and Methamphetamine with Trout Farming and you have
it. The Government of New Zealand appears to be directly involved in promoting illegal
acts. IT IS ILLEGAL TO FARM TROUT. But these two ministries have been directly
involved in finding ways to make an illegal act profitable. Still think Trout Farming is not
on the agenda???
Over the years I have agreed with some actions of our current Government and disagreed
with others, generally their environmental policies. However I have never thought of
them as corrupt, but that is the only word that came to mind when I discovered the above.
John Key, get your Ministers in line. At the very absolute least the Government needs to
rapidly distance itself from this issue and make it 100% clear that they do not and will not
endorse illegal acts in any way. NOW.
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FISHING FUNNIES
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(Opinions expressed in this Newsletter are those of the individual contributors and not neccessarillary those of North Shore Flyfishers Incorporated)
MEMBERS FEEDBACK
We, your committee, are always trying to give you what you want.
But are we??
In order for us to do our job properly we need to have your feedback, positive or
negative. For example, have you been on a club fishing trip? Did you enjoy yourself?
What would you change, if anything? Club nights – what would you like to see more of?
Less of? In short, talk to us.
The contact details of all your committee members are listed at the end of every
newsletter. So if you have something on your mind let us know.
Thank you - Your committee
NSFF CLUB MERCHANDISE
Cap – $15.00 Inclusive of GST
Green or Beige, one size fits all, with embroidered badge.
Embroidered Cloth Badge - $7.50 Inclusive of GST
Brushed Brass Metal Pin Badge - $12.50 Inclusive of GST
If anyone is interested in purchasing these products please either place an order at Club
Nights or at Hunts Sports.
Meetings held the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm:
Milford Cruising Club, 24 Craig Road, Milford, North Shore City
NORTH SHORE FLYFISHERS EXECUTIVE
Club Patron - Ian Hunt
President - Dave Symes
486-6257 Takapuna dssymes@xtra.co.nz
Secretary - Roy Richardson
415-8950 Coatesville roy@location.co.nz
Treasurer - John Cuthbertson
413-6993 Greenhithe john.cuthbertson@nz.pwc.com
Magazine - Duncan Frew 021 648 956 Torbay
iconp@ihug.co.nz
Committee - Ron Blair
09 834 8841 Te Atatu
ron.blair@xtra.co.nz
Members
John Dernie
0272 288 616 Glenfield dernie@xtra.co.nz
Trevor Jones
09 817 1026 Titirangi
jones.t@xtra.co.nz
Faith Moon
027 538 1040 Parnel
faith.moon@xtra.co.nz
Mark Norton
09 410 7601
mark.norton@waterfrontauckland.co.nz
Maurice Parlane 021 650 692 Northcote maurice.p@newwayz.co.nz
Dennis Smith 376-3375
Herne Bay de.smith@xtra.co.nz
North Shore Flyfishers Incorporated: P.O. Box 31-387, Milford, North Shore City
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