The first grasshoppers noticed recently herald trout action along inland rivers like the South Esk later in summer and through autumn.

Downpours also lifted levels of the Ringarooma, Scamander and George rivers, although anglers fishing Georges Bay are pleased with catches of flathead and trevally.

Squid are still about in Burns Bay too, but recent rough weather slowed offshore action that included tuna several weeks ago.

Meanwhile, highland anglers report that nearly all trout now being caught are in top condition, including those from Arthurs Lake. Out West, one party recently found Howes Lagoon Bay worthwhile.

Many like to prospect along shores of Woods Lake, which was spilling until summer and relatively high before that.

Woods also offers reasonable shelter from fresh summer breezes, traditionally sought at Pine Tier Lagoon and currently also profitable at Lake Echo.

Meadowbank Lake was stocked on January 17 with 1200 domesticated Atlantic salmon averaging 700 grams.

Essential in summer for fly fishers on many highland waters are copies of mayfly duns to cover trout rising to them during their heaviest daily hatches, which are usually from late-mornings to mid-afternoons.

These duns eventually change into highland spinners which often hatch later in the day, so black spinner copies can be effective then, although trout often become touchy and call for careful, precise casting.