Warmer weather in recent months means the salmon smolt released to Otago Harbour at the weekend are in especially good condition, Salmon Anglers Otago Association committee member Wayne Olsen says.
But conditions were anything but pleasant on Saturday when the group released 30,000 smolt at various points on Lindsay Creek and the Water of Leith.
"The weather was wet and uncomfortable, but you probably saw the team of ladies down there [at the hatchery] keeping the food going.''
It is hoped the smolt stay in the Water of Leith and tributary for at least 48 hours before making their way into Otago Harbour.
Releasing them there meant they were more likely to return to Otago Harbour after they had swum out to sea, Mr Olsen said.
"They are very healthy smolt. They are in really good condition this year.
"I guess it's just been a good season [because of] warm weather and dry weather.
"The idea of the winter release is there are less predators in the harbour,'' he said.
The smolt are raised by the Dunedin Community Salmon Trust at its Sawyers Bay hatchery.
