The country's anglers and game bird hunters are being reminded to make sure they vote in the Fish and Game Council elections.

Fish & Game communications manager Don Rood says because voting closes at 5pm on Friday, those who are eligible and haven't voted are advised to do so online, rather put voting papers in the post.

Looking after the country's fishing resources is a key rolefor Fish & Game.

'We urge licence holders to take the time to vote – to exercise their right to choose the people who can best advance their local region's hunting and fishing interests.

'These are the people who will set your regional hunting and fishing regulations, develop policy and priorities for staff work plans – it's an important role.”

The 12 councillors required for most of the country's 12 Fish & Game regions will serve a three year term.

Don say the Returning Officer has indicated the number of votes returned so far is about normal for this stage in the election process.

'Anglers and hunters in the Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game Region have been the most motivated so far – the voting return there is highest in the country, topping the 30 per cent mark.”

Central South Island returns are also healthy, he adds.

'In the North Island, voting has also been brisk in the Hawkes Bay Region with more than 23 per cent of votes sent in.

'We urge registered voters in other regions to take the opportunity to vote before the close of play Friday. Anglers and hunters should not, take our excellent fishing and game bird hunting for granted.”