ANGLING NOTES.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXIV, Issue 16359, 1 October 1913, Page 10

ANGLING NOTES.

TO-DAY’S PROSPECT'S. (By ELRAE.) Prospects for the opening of the angling season, which commences today, seem very bright, and already the majority of anglers - have provisioned themselves for the “ first.” Ae far as can be gathered in general conversation (for favourite haunts are always kept dark, till fished out), the Lower Selwyn will be well patronised. For some weeks past the inhabitants of Selwyn Huts linVe been busily engaged preparing for the opening. In some cases triey have made additions to their huts, and in, other cases liave fixed boats, but most pleasing to the eye of the enthusiast is the number of new huts in course of erection. Some of the angling fraternity view this 6tate of things from another light, and consider that shortly the number of anglers will excetfd the trout in the river. In some districts one hears of streams being too low for a good opening, but so far the green weed is not in evidence. In that case the Upper Selwyn about Coalgate and Whitecliffs should bo a certain place for a bag of light fish. The Waimakariri has not been subjected to many heavy floods during the past winter and should yield some good sport early in October. All the smaller branches of tho ‘ ‘ Waimalc’ ’ are said to be low but teeming with fish, and the adherents of fly have a fair chance of catching fish from the North Branch during this week. Those anglers who fish the Ashley near Rangiora have little to say about the condition of that river or tho likelihood of any sport being obtainable there this season., It may be presumed, however, that this is not a token that there are no fish in the river, for the majority who patronise the fishable water there are all looking forward to the opening. Although by size it can hardly be favourably compared with the, Ashley, the Oust is a stream not to be despised, and last season some good baskets were secured there. The outlet of the Halswoll is reported “ fairly dear.” The Kaituna, j though very muddy near the mouth, is said to ho in good trim, but is somewhat difficult of aocesa. Prospects at Little River seem very bright. The large trout are in tho streams already, ana if given a fair chance should provide good sport earlier than usual. Tho Heathcoto, in most parts sluggish, suffers considerably from tho onslaughts of the worm fisherman, but often affords good sport to . tho angler who tries it with flv, or when slightly discoloured with minnow. These latter lures are not bad early in tho season, but after the worrner has had his say there is little to catch. There are plenty of fish in the Avon in fishable areas, and also in its many tributaries, so sport should be good locally, and better than in previous seasons. „■