The buoys and chains were bolted to rocks exposed while lake levels were low in early winter.

“These rocks are usually submerged and have caught out some boaties in the past,” says Otago Fish & Game officer Steve Dixon.

“There are dangers beneath the surface, rocks of all sizes, as the dam water level fluctuates over the fishing season.”

Twelve of the most hazardous rocks that have caught some people out when fishing and boating on the dam were marked with red buoys, Mr Dixon says.

“Skippers need to note that only some of the rocks are marked with buoys. There are several other submerged rocks unmarked in the lake, especially near the shore, so caution is still needed when operating watercraft.”

Deputy harbourmaster Pete Dryden says that while marking of some rocks is great, boaties are reminded to navigate with caution and obey the 5 knot speed limit rules while on the lake.

“Remember being a responsible skipper you should follow the five golden rules for boating safety: take two forms of appropriate communications, avoid alcohol, wear your life jacket, tell someone where you’re going and check the weather,” Mr Dryden says.

Otago Fish & Game officer Steve Dixon (left) and ORC deputy harbourmaster Pete Dryden attach a marker buoy to a rock at Poolburn Dam. PHOTO: BEN SOWRY, OTAGO FISH & GAME.

The 2023-24 fishing season at Poolburn Dam opens this Sunday, 1 October.

Mr Dixon says brown trout caught at Poolburn Dam last season weighed an average of 2.3kg, angler surveys showed.

Fish & Game staff and honorary rangers conducted surveys and compliance checks at the dam throughout last season.

“Many of the 270 anglers we spoke to said the excellent condition of trout at Poolburn last season had brought them back several times,” Mr Dixon says.

“We’re hoping for another great season with good quality fish.”