DOMINION'S FISH

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21952, 8 November 1934, Page 12

DOMINION'S FISH

SCOPE FOR RESEARCH THE CONDITION OF TROUT NEW INFLUENCES OPERATING A plea for the systematic investigation of the fish of New Zealand, both marine and fresh-water, was made yesterday by Mr. A. E. Hefford, chief inspector of fisheries. Dealing particularly with trout, Mr. Hefford stated that although a certain amount of work had been done, there was a» wide field for research. Complaints were frequently heard that the fishing was deteriorating, but until there was a definite scientific basis of comparison this could not be proved. It was not to be expected that the phenomenal fishing enjoyed by the pioneers could last for ever. At the same time it was essential to collect data as to tho general state of the fish and the conditions affecting them, so that future control could be along the right lines. Financial uncertainty had hindered this work in the past, said Mr. Hefford. Jt had depended entirely on the voluntary contributions by each acclimatisation society. Some gave generously, others very little, and some did nothing to support the work. The Auckland society had always been eager to assist. At the recent conference in Wellington a remit had been carried advocating an increase in the cost of fishing licences, part of the surplus to be definitely assigned to research funds to employ whole-time workers. The Study of Food There.were many angles of approach to the problem, <yie of tho most important being tho study of feed. In his opinion there had been little or no food shortage in the streams and lakes that had already been jstudied. The physical condition of the waters also had to be studied, many of the New Zealand streams, by virtue of their flooding, being somewhat unsuitable for the best breeding conditions. A knowledge of the actual' life history of the fish was also of vital importance. By a study of the scales of the fish a definite index of their growth could be obtained, as well as accurate information as to the date of their spawning. Effect of Large Catches Commenting on the comparisons often made between tl\e size and condition of the trout being caught to-day with those of some years ago, Mr. Hefford pointed out that the easy access that had resulted from travel by motor-car over good roads had naturally brought hundreds of fishermen to favoured spots where years ago there would be a mere handful. Certain localities were well able to withstand such an invasion Taupo, with its wonderful opportunities for natural reproduction in its many tributary streams, was still probably the best trout-fishing ground in tho world. At the same time, with the huge total of catches in any one year there must inevitably be a decrease in the number of very large fish. In such places it was particularly necessary to keep accurate records of the fish caught, their age and their life history. "Our fishing is a national asset," said Mr. Hefford, "and it is a trust that we hold for future generations. We cannot play ducks and drakes with such a valuable natural resource, and every effort should be made to establish conservation along the right scientific lines."