Low flows caused by dry conditions made for difficult fishing in some rivers in the area last season, but recent high flows and a good snow cap indicate a better season this year.
Lower rivers open for the season on October 1.
The Maerewhenua, Hakataramea, Ahuriri and other upper rivers open on the first Saturday in November, and opening day for the upper Ahuriri is the first Saturday in December.
After months of low flows last season, spring delivered two floods in many of the rivers.
The Hakataramea River, in particular, experienced low flows and was down to its minimum of 0.5cumecs for most of last summer, and thousands of fish had to be rescued from dry reaches.
A 55cumec flood in early August, followed by more recent freshes, have improved conditions.
The Ahuriri River, which ran low, below 10cumecs, for most of last season, experienced a flood of about 175cumecs in mid August and was this week rising to similar levels.
"The effect of the floods should not affect anglers' catches on opening weekend, and the overall effects will be of benefit to the fisheries," Mr Hughes said.
Some rivers had not had floods for several years and high flows were well overdue to clear out the accumulation of aquatic growth and silt.
"Floods and freshes are natural maintenance and are important to keep rivers and streams clean," he said.
The hydro-electricity storage lakes of Waitaki, Aviemore and Benmore, open to fishing all year, were popular at opening weekend and were expected to fish well.
Mr Hughes urged anglers to check changes to fishing rules for this season, including the ban on felt-soled wading boots.
