Trout numbers are declining in the Tukituki, Ngaruroro and Tutaekuri rivers

Fishermen are concerned with the decline in trout numbers in the Tukituki, Ngaruroro and Tutaekuri rivers, with drought, winter floods, low water flows and agricultural pollution no doubt contributing factors. A survey in the past season showed that 68 per cent of fish caught in the Tukituki were adult fish, and only 32 per cent were juveniles. The results from recent national fly-fishing competitions saw a drop from 700 fish caught to only 36 in the last three years. This is a very disturbing trend. The degrading and even possible loss of these fisheries to Hawke's Bay would be a disaster. On the other hand, the tourist revenue from a rejuvenated fishery would be a great boost to local economies and hard pressed farmers, home stays and for fishermen.

Source: NZ Herald, Sept 26, 2017
http://www2.nzherald.co.nz/the-country/news/article.cfm?c_id=16&objecti…