Autumn

(April and May)
Anticipation runs high in our angling community as this change in seasons turns attention to our local rivers. With the first golds of an approaching autumn come the first runs of bright silver rainbows. Wading a Taupo river on a clear frosty dawn, pampas grass bowing heavy with dew while a bright sunlight dances on a river full of promise is unforgettable. Combined with the explosive take of a freshrun rainbow and you have the true essence of an unforgettable angling experience. Welcome to Taupo in Autumn.

• # 6-7 weight rod & line ideal, line colour not as important as summer but green or white best.
• Nymphs weighted in sizes # 10 &12's, dropper nymphs # 14's &16's.
• Breathable waders as in summer are fine, polyprops under for warmth.

Winter

(June to September)
The Taupo region in all its many moods is perhaps best portrayed in the winter months. Riverside scenes may reflect bare willows on a clear, frosty dawn in June or rain swept with mist enveloping the pines in August.

Waist deep in the river's flow, wrapped up against the elements while a wild six pound rainbow leaps in defiance, stripping line to the backing is a truly magic experience. This is Taupo in Winter.

Spawning runs in rivers like the Tongariro reach their peak over the winter months. This internationally renowned river is both majestic and exhilarating to fish on any Taupo visit. If more gentle meandering trout streams are your choice there are rivers to suit. The Tauranga-Taupo River is a pleasure to wade with pleasant rural surrounds while the spring fed Waitahanui has an intimate charm of its own.

• #7 or #8 weight rods and floating line best (green or white)
• Nymphs #10's to #14's (weighted)
• Neoprene waders and thermals for warmth
• Spawning runs normally peak after August/September