TIPS

Trout are predators with a programmed response to attack. To a trout, the actions of a demented smelt is just another way of announcing... 'lunch'! Trout jigging is boat based drift angling where lures or flies are dropped to the level the fish are thought to be at, and then teased into life. Lightweight tackle is used ensuring the angler gets a real work-out when the fish is hooked. By using electronics that display the lake bed, likely trout spots can be located and targeted by stopping upwind and drifting the boat over.

Tip from: Charlie Meyer

Finding Trout - Charlie's proven method is to first find the depth fish are at or to locate likely structure (which will attract the smelt etc trout feed on) using his electronic fish-finder. His boat also has a GPS meaning he can return to the hot-spots where he has learned trout gather and feed and where fishing has been successful in the past.

Staying in the fishing zone - once the desired spot is located the boat must be positioned far enough up-wind that lines will be down before the boat drifts into the zone. For breezy days when the boat would otherwise drift through too quickly, Charlie uses and recommends the 'Bag-em' Drogue or Sea Anchor (available in a range of sizes for different boat lengths at Hunting & Fishing New Zealand).

Match the Hatch - because of the slow drift, the trout have time to take a good look at the jigs and flies on offer before being tempted to strike. Charlie swears by Pat Swifts prepared rigs - three hand tied smelt flies rigged on fluorocarbon leader, supplied ready to go - just attach a sinker or a hookless teaser jig.