Thousands of anglers are expected to descend on Rotorua’s famous lakes next week as the countdown to the opening of the trout fishing season enters its final days.

The season officially opens on October 1, with keen fishers set to launch on to Lakes Rotoiti, Tarawera and Ōkataina from 5am in pursuit of the region’s renowned trout.

Eastern Fish & Game officer Mark Sherburn said in a media release that opening day remained one of the most anticipated dates on the angling calendar and anglers should now be making final preparations.

“With just days to go, now’s the time to check fishing gear, make sure boats are ready and have a game plan before heading out on the water,” Sherburn said.

Long-range weather forecasts for the Bay of Plenty are looking favourable, while Niwa is predicting a warm summer, providing optimism for the months ahead.

Sherburn said fishing could be slow in the first hours after the season begins but often improved once the sun reached the water.

“Shallow trolling with a Tassie and a smelt fly is a productive way to begin. If it’s a bright day and there’s lots of boat traffic, expect the fish to move a little deeper as the morning warms up.”

He said anglers should adjust their methods if trout dropped deeper in the water column, using lead lines, wire lines or downriggers to put lures in front of fish.

“As a choice of lure colour, it’s hard to beat orange early in the season, or something with a touch of red. Don’t forget the old faithful black-and-gold Toby.”

Solid fish can be expected from the Rotorua lakes this season. Photo / Fish & Game

Jigging and soft-bait fishing are also expected to be popular, particularly later in the day.

Sherburn said soft-baits had become increasingly effective on Rotorua lakes and could be used in a variety of ways to target trout at both shallow and deeper depths.

Fish & Game is also urging anglers to ensure their boats and safety equipment are in good order before hitting the water.

Sherburn said boat motors should be tested before arriving at boat ramps and safety gear, including radios, EPIRBs, anchors, flares and lifejackets, should be checked.

The reminder comes before changes to Maritime New Zealand rules on October 9, which will require everyone aboard boats measuring 6m or less to wear a lifejacket while the vessel is underway.

Fish & Game is also encouraging lake users to follow the Check, Clean, Dry protocol to help prevent the spread of freshwater pests.

Invasive species such as freshwater gold clam, catfish, koi carp and aquatic weeds could have significant impacts on the Rotorua lakes if introduced, the organisation says.

A range of trout licences are available through Fish & Game and authorised licence agents ahead of opening day.

Sherburn said licence agents could also provide tackle advice and last-minute tips for anglers looking to make the most of the season opener.