Fish get through snow to Capital Trout Centre

To the relief of Fish & Game and hundreds of young anglers the severe weather which threatened to derail the delivery of 1000 trout to Wellington’s Capital Trout Centre is on the wane and the release will go ahead tomorrow as planned.

Numerous road closures in the Central and Lower North Island earlier in the week almost prevented the consignment of two-year-old trout from Fish & Game’s hatchery at Ngongataha, Rotorua, getting to their destination.

“Early in the week the Desert Road and other main highways were closed which meant the Trout Transporter couldn’t get through, but it now looks all okay for Friday’s release,” says Wellington region Fish & Game manager Phil Teal.

The fish will need about two weeks to acclimatise in the ponds at the Capital Trout Centre at Wellington’s Happy Valley before hundreds of young anglers will be given an opportunity to catch a fish at the first of six open days to be held starting Sunday, September 4.

“This is a fantastic community facility and event,” says Mr Teal. “It’s a great opportunity for young children to hook their first fish and maybe get hooked on the ‘fishing bug’.

“Children have a lot of fun at these open days but the results are enduring as it teaches them new skills, patience, and gives them a sense of connection with the outdoors.”

Mr Teal says the Capital Trout Centre is a real community initiative with funding from Fish & Game, Wellington City Council, local businesses and organisations.

The Wellington Flyfishers Club makes a huge contribution through its volunteer efforts to give tuition and supervision at the open days, he adds.

To manage the large number of children keen to have a crack at catching a fish, a booking system has been set up with spots booked through Steve's Fishing Shop (Wellington), Hamills (Thorndon) or Hutt Valley Hunting and Fishing (Lower Hutt).

As well as the exceptionally popular children’s fish out days, there are additional one-off events for other groups such as children with cancer, hearing impaired children, and Scout groups.