Maori Lakes – O Tu Wharekai

The Maori Lakes are a challenge for any trout angler. These lakes are shallow with perhaps little more than a metre or so of water over the weed beds. Most of the shoreline is swampy and hidden by reeds. Only a few areas around the shore are accessible on foot.

The preferred, and permitted, method for fishing these lakes is by casting from an anchored dinghy. Once you get your boat into position you must drop your anchor before you commence casting. Harling, or casting from a drifting boat, is not permitted. Kayaks and float tubes are also permitted but again you must fish only while anchored.

When hooked trout invariable head for the raupo and weed beds. Once in there, they will be lost for certain. A landing net is an essential item for lifting a fish aboard.

The trout can be difficult to spot and most anglers resort to blind fishing with nymphs or wet flies. Hamill’s Killer, Mrs Simpson, or a green or brown Woolly Bugger have brought success on these lakes.