Thread: Tongariro mid~late November

That time of year can be a little tricky. As you say the main spawning runs are over and the Browns havnt really started but there will still be fish moving through especially if theres been a fresh.
Naturals like pheasant tails, caddis, hare n copper and hare's ears in sizes 10 - 16. I like to start with a light coloured bomb (10 or 12) and a dark trailing nymph (14-16) and if no luck switch them around so dark bomb, light trailer. I look for little pockets and holes.
Also at that time the flow should be lower and water clearer so sight fishing with a nice bouyant dry (elk hair caddis or parachute adams) and a small #16 nymph on a dropper can work well.
If its been dry for a while leading up to your visit you might have better luck hitting one of the stream mouths particually at change of light.