Central South Island Fish & Game chief executive Steve McKnight said, in a statement, the improvement had aligned with an increase in ranging and compliance activities this fishing season.
Fish & Game rangers had encountered 16 anglers committing offences since the start of the current fishing season in October 2024 at the Mackenzie hydro canals, he said. This compared with 50 offending anglers for the same period during the previous season.
"The reduction in offenders encountered comes at a time when increased resourcing has been put towards ensuring canal anglers are licensed and sticking to the regulations," Mr McKnight said.
"Our council recognises the value of the internationally renowned canal fishery to anglers and the local community and has increased its ranging capability to aid in supporting the fishery’s sustainability. Rangers have increased angling compliance checks by 20% this season.
"We believe the increased ranger presence at the canals and publicising successful prosecutions of offenders may have has served as a tangible deterrent to would-be offenders."
Last month, Central South Island Fish & Game prosecuted angler Terepoitirere Pita for fishing without a licence at the Ōhau B Canal.
Mr Pita’s penalties for fishing without a licence were a conviction, fines and costs totalling $800.
All anglers fishing for sports fish, including trout, salmon and redfin perch, in freshwater are required under the Conservation Act 1987 to obtain a sports fishing licence and adhere to sports fishing regulations. — APL
