Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Marlborough (New Zealand)
Marlborough Fishing Spots – Looking to cast a line in the beautiful region/district of Marlborough? Crystal-clear mountain streams and serene lakes offer many excellent fishing spots. Here are a few great sportfishing spots in Marlborough.
Acheron River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Challenging Backcountry Trout Fishery
The Acheron River, a major tributary of the Clarence River, presents a challenging yet rewarding fishing experience. It offers the chance to target large brown trout. This is in a remote upland environment. Anglers should be prepared for difficult conditions.
Trout Population: Few Fish, but Large Ones
Brown trout inhabit the Acheron River. The population is relatively low. However, the trout tend to be very large. Many reach impressive sizes. This makes it a very attractive location for skilled anglers.
River Setting and Conditions: A Rugged Highland Environment
The Acheron River is a highland river. It meets the Clarence River near Hanmer Springs. Conditions can be challenging. Strong winds, heavy rain, and freezing temperatures are common. Much of the landscape is open, with sparse vegetation.
Fishing the Acheron: Targeting Large Trout (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Fishing the Acheron River requires skill and experience. It’s perfect for anglers seeking a challenging backcountry experience. The river consists of pools, glides, and riffles. These hold a small number of large fish. The clear water allows sight-fishing.
Fishing Methods: Adapting to Variable Conditions
The Acheron River’s clear water allows sight-fishing. Strong winds may hamper floating lines. Consider using sinking lines or spinners. Appropriate methods are crucial to success. Anglers should be prepared for changing conditions.
Accessing the Acheron River: Multiple Routes and Considerations
Anglers can access the Acheron River via two main routes. One route is from Hanmer Springs along Jacks Pass Road. The other is via Molesworth Station when the road opens. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for both routes. Check road conditions before traveling.
Road Access from Hanmer Springs and Molesworth Station: Important Information (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Acheron Road, accessible through Molesworth Station, opens annually around December 28th. It’s open between 7 am and 7 pm for over 13 weeks. This is subject to weather and fire risk. Contact DOC for updates. Careful driving is essential on the narrow, unsealed road. This is suitable for most cars, excluding caravans and vehicles over 7 meters long.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for the Acheron River
Several lures prove particularly effective on the Acheron River. Lightly weighted nymphs (sizes 14–16) are recommended. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, or Green Stone Fly patterns. Dry flies (Coch-y-Bondhu, Molefly, Royal Wulff, Humpy) are best in sizes 10–12. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, emerger sedge flies) sizes 12–14 are effective fished sub-surface. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) work well in faster water or deep pools. Anglers should adapt their lure choices according to the specific conditions.
Anatoki River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Picturesque Golden Bay Trout Fishery for Experienced Anglers
The Anatoki River, nestled within the stunning Golden Bay area, presents a highly rewarding fly fishing experience, particularly for those with experience in dry fly and nymph techniques. Known for its population of sizable brown trout, the river offers a tranquil and scenic setting for anglers seeking a challenging yet aesthetically pleasing fishing adventure.
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The river’s beauty, combined with the opportunity to target substantial brown trout, makes it a highly desirable destination for experienced fly fishers. The clear, relatively shallow water allows for precise and delicate presentations, rewarding skill and patience.
Abundant Brown Trout Populations: A Productive and Underfished River
The Anatoki River supports a healthy population of brown trout, with a notable concentration of larger specimens. The average size of trout caught in this river is around three pounds, but anglers frequently report encountering larger fish. This relatively high average size, coupled with the generally low fishing pressure experienced in this area, contributes to the river’s reputation as a highly productive fishery.
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The relatively pristine nature of the river and its surroundings ensures that the trout population remains robust and largely undisturbed, providing a consistent supply of quality fish for discerning anglers. A small number of salmon are also present but are largely escapees from a nearby salmon farm and are not as frequently encountered.
River Setting and Accessibility: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Accessibility (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Anatoki River traces its origins in the rugged Tasman Mountains, flowing gracefully across picturesque farmland before converging with the Takaka River. This journey through varied landscapes results in a diverse river environment offering different fishing opportunities. The lower reaches of the river, situated a mere 10 minutes from the town of Takaka and 45 minutes from Motueka, provide relatively easy access for anglers.
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This convenient proximity, combined with the scenic beauty of the river valley and surrounding farmland, makes it an appealing destination. While the lower sections offer easy access, reaching the upper reaches requires a modest amount of walking, adding an element of exploration and adventure to the fishing trip.
Fishing Techniques and Water Conditions: A River Favoring Precision
The Anatoki River’s gentle gradient, predominantly shingle bed, and consistently clear water make it particularly suitable for employing dry fly and nymph techniques. The gentle flow of the river creates a serene setting for fishing, while the clear water allows for precise casting and the ability to spot and target trout effectively.
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The presence of good vegetation cover in certain sections provides excellent habitat and cover for trout, further contributing to the river’s rich and diverse angling opportunities. The relatively gentle gradient of the river, combined with the predominantly shingle bed, makes wading relatively easy in many sections, allowing for comfortable access to various fishing spots along the river.
Accessing the Anatoki: Finding Your Fishing Spot (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Public access points to the Anatoki River are somewhat limited. However, anglers can access various sections of the river from side roads branching off from State Highway 60 (the Takaka to Motueka road) and Long Plain Road. Reaching the upper reaches of the river requires a degree of walking, encouraging exploration and adding a sense of adventure to the fishing experience.
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It is therefore highly advisable to consult a detailed access map before embarking on a fishing trip to ensure you’re aware of the best locations and pathways to reach your chosen fishing spots. Proper planning will greatly enhance your overall fishing experience.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Matching the Hatch and Water Conditions
Anglers targeting trout in the Anatoki River will find a variety of effective lures and techniques, depending on water conditions and the time of year. Nymph patterns, particularly those mimicking Pheasant Tail variants or Hare & Copper patterns, prove highly successful. Smaller sizes (16 and even smaller) are often preferred when the river is particularly clear and low.
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Dry flies, such as Greenwell’s Glory, Coch-y-Bondhu, Adams, Kakahi Queen, beetle patterns (in early summer), and cicada patterns (from mid-summer) can produce excellent results, particularly during the day, while Twilight Beauty and Dad’s Favourite are effective during evening rises. Anglers will often see trout rising during daylight hours; however, success often depends on exceptionally precise and delicate casting.
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Sub-surface fishing with small wet flies, like Greenwell’s Glory, Grouse, and Purple and Red Tipped Governor, works well, particularly in the evening. Finally, small bladed spinners, such as Mepps or Veltic, provide a versatile alternative. It’s important for anglers to carefully match their lure choices to the prevailing water conditions and insect activity.
Aorere River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Diverse Golden Bay Fishing Experience
The Aorere River offers diverse fishing opportunities. It’s a large, scenic river. It holds a moderate number of trout. These trout reach substantial sizes. The Aorere caters to various angler preferences.
Trout Population: Size and Distribution
The Aorere River’s trout population is moderate. Brown trout dominate. Sea-run trout are also present. The average size is three to four pounds. However, much larger trout exist, especially in the headwaters. These brown trout are some of Golden Bay’s largest.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Wilderness
The Aorere River is 43 kilometers long. It drains the Wakamarama and Haupiri ranges. This is in the Kahurangi National Park region. It’s near Collingwood (five minutes) and Nelson (two hours). The river offers different challenges and experiences.
Fishing Conditions: Upper, Middle, and Lower Reaches (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The upper reaches provide a wilderness experience. These areas are suitable for experienced anglers. The middle reaches are varied. These offer fly and spin fishing opportunities. Access is challenging in several areas. The lower reaches are more sedate and near Collingwood. Sea-run trout and kahawai are common.
Headwaters and Upper Reaches: A Wilderness Angling Challenge
The headwaters offer a true wilderness experience. Dry fly and nymph fishing is excellent. The river flows through untouched forest. These are challenging waters that require experience. The river is clear except after heavy rain. This is a true backcountry adventure.
Upper Reaches: Classic Wilderness Fishing
The upper reaches, above the Brown River confluence, are ideal. They provide excellent fishing for large trout. This is classic wilderness fishing. Fish are visible in some areas. However, deep pools and fast flow require blind fishing. This section necessitates at least an overnight stay. It’s best suited for experienced anglers.
Middle Reaches: Varied Fishing Opportunities
The middle reaches provide good fly and spin fishing. However, accessing the best spots can be challenging. The river flows between steep banks. The current is strong in many areas. Numerous open areas with pools and runs hold many trout.
Lower Reaches: Easy Access and Tidal Influence (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The lower reaches are deep and slower. The Collingwood area is tidal. Sea-run trout and kahawai are present. The river’s mouth offers great kahawai fishing (October–December). The upper section, above the estuarine area, is slow but still holds trout. Access is easy from roads near Collingwood.
Recommended Lures: A Range of Effective Patterns
Various lures are effective. In the upper reaches, use large weighted flies (sizes 10–14). Smaller nymphs work in the middle reaches, particularly during warmer months. Use weighted flies in deeper or faster waters. Small dry flies (Adams, Greenwell’s Glory, Mole Fly) are effective in the upper and middle reaches (sizes 14 or smaller). Green Beetle (early summer) and Cicada (late summer) work well. Small wet flies are effective in the evening. Spinners work well throughout the river, especially in the lower reaches.
Tributaries: Exploring Additional Fishing Opportunities
The Kaituna River is a significant tributary. It offers additional fishing opportunities. Exploring tributaries increases your fishing options. These additional areas are worth investigating. This expands the overall fishing experience.
Argyle Lake – Stocked Fishery (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Highly Accessible Stocked Trout Fishery
Lake Argyle’s immense popularity among anglers is directly attributable to its well-established stocking program. This man-made reservoir, a relatively small body of water, provides a highly concentrated fishing experience. Its manageable size, approximately 220 meters wide and 1300 meters long with an average depth of 3.5 meters, contributes to its appeal. The lake’s consistent stocking ensures a healthy and readily available fish population for anglers to target.
Exceptional Accessibility and On-Site Amenities: A Convenient Fishing Destination
One of Lake Argyle’s most attractive features is its exceptional accessibility. A well-maintained gravel road conveniently follows much of the shoreline, enabling easy access for anglers arriving by car. The lake further enhances its convenience by providing self-contained camping facilities.
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This allows anglers to extend their stay and fully enjoy the fishing opportunities. In addition, a designated boat launch ramp is located at the southeastern end of the lake, facilitating the use of boats for those seeking a broader fishing experience across the lake’s surface.
A Focus on Rainbow Trout: Consistent Stocking and Trophy Opportunities (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Lake Argyle operates as a focus fishery, with a strong emphasis on rainbow trout. Fish & Game undertakes regular stocking programs, ensuring a plentiful supply of fish for anglers. A significant number of these stocked trout fall within the one-to-two kilogram range, providing consistent catches for the average angler.
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However, adding an element of excitement and potential for a truly memorable fishing trip, Fish & Game also periodically introduces much larger, trophy-sized rainbow trout, some exceeding 10 pounds—a true “fish of a lifetime” for many fortunate anglers.
Water Clarity and Branch River Influences: Important Considerations for Anglers
While Lake Argyle offers exceptional fishing, anglers should be aware of potential impacts from the Branch River. This river serves as Lake Argyle’s primary water source. During periods of heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding, the Branch River carries significant silt and debris into the lake.
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This influx of silt can significantly reduce water clarity, potentially affecting fishing conditions and making it less attractive to the trout. Therefore, checking the Branch River flow rates before visiting Lake Argyle is strongly recommended, ensuring anglers can plan their trip to coincide with periods of better water clarity and enhanced fishing opportunities.
Awatare River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Challenging but Rewarding Fishery
The Awatere River, while not renowned, offers rewarding fishing, particularly in its upper reaches. It contains a population of brown trout. However, conditions can be challenging. Anglers should be prepared for variable conditions.
River Setting and Location: Proximity and Accessibility
Located just 20 minutes from Blenheim, the Awatere River flows from a mountain valley to the sea. Variable flows and poor water clarity impact fishing. The upper reaches are easier to access. The upper reaches provide worthwhile angling despite lower fish numbers.
River Conditions and Habitat: Challenges for Trout
The Awatere River has an unstable rock and gravel bed. This creates poor trout habitat in many areas. The upper reaches tend to be clearer. However, the lower reaches silt up easily. Strong winds carrying dust can make fishing difficult.
Trout Population: Numbers and Average Size (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Trout numbers in the Awatere River are low. The average trout size is two to three pounds. This means that while fish are not abundant, successful anglers can expect to catch sizable trout. This necessitates careful planning and strategic fishing techniques.
Accessing the Awatere: Convenient Route from Blenheim
The Awatere Valley Road provides access. This road connects to State Highway 1 south of Blenheim. Therefore, reaching the fishable upper and middle sections is straightforward. This makes the river accessible to many anglers. Easy access is a key advantage.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for the Awatere River
Various lures are effective on the Awatere River. Lightly weighted nymphs (size 14) work well. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and Green Stonefly patterns. Heavier weights may be needed for deeper pools. Dry flies (Coch-y-Bondhu, Molefly, Royal Wulff, Humpy) can be effective over riffles.
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Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, emerger sedge flies, size 14) are excellent sub-surface, particularly in the evening or early morning. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are best in faster water or deep pools. Anglers should choose lures to match the specific conditions.
Baton River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Scenic Fishery for Large Trout
The Baton River, a small stream, offers excellent fishing. It’s known for its beautiful setting. Several kilometers are wadeable. The average trout weighs three pounds, though much larger trout are common. It’s a very popular destination.
Location and Accessibility: Convenient Access to the Baton River
The Baton River is conveniently located. It’s an hour from Nelson, twenty minutes from Motueka. Tapawera is just ten minutes away. This makes it easily accessible to many anglers. Therefore, it’s a popular location for both local and traveling anglers.
River Setting and Habitat: A Picturesque and Productive Environment
The Baton River is a small tributary of the Motueka River. It flows over a stone and gravel bed. Several kilometers provide good fishing. The scenery varies constantly. Excellent vegetation provides ideal trout habitat.
Fishing the Baton: Techniques and Challenges (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Despite its size, the Baton River holds sizeable trout. This provides a good challenge for anglers. The river’s isolation is another attraction. Clear water allows sight-fishing. Stealth and accurate casting are essential. Light gear is also needed for best results.
Fish Populations: Numbers and Size Distribution
Trout numbers are reasonable. They tend to be higher at the start of the season. Most trout average around three pounds. Many larger fish are also present. This makes it highly desirable for trophy fish seekers.
Accessing the Baton River: Navigating Access Points (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Access is easy in the lower middle reaches. The Baton Valley Road follows the river. You may need to push through vegetation in places. Permission is needed from landowners in the lower and upper reaches. Check the access map before you visit.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for the Baton River
Several lures consistently produce good results. Small nymphs (size 14 or smaller) are recommended. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and Theo’s Bombers. Dry flies such as Greenwell’s Glory, Kakahi Queen, Parachute Adams, beetle patterns (Coch-y-Bondhu), and cicada patterns (late summer) are also effective. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, Twilight Beauty, Invicta, Purple & Grouse) work well, especially in the evenings. These patterns are well suited to the water clarity and trout behavior within the river.
Buller Catchment (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Vast River System: The Buller and its Tributaries
The Buller River system, near Murchison, is truly expansive. It ranges from small streams to the mighty Buller River itself. Numerous tributaries feed into the main river. These include the Gowan, Owen, Matakitaki, Mangles, Matiri, and Maruia rivers. This creates a diverse network of fishing locations.
The Buller River’s Significance: Conservation and Angling
The Buller River holds significant ecological importance. A National Water Conservation Order protects it. This outstanding fishery attracts numerous anglers each year. However, didymo has impacted the main river’s fish population. Fortunately, tributary streams offer excellent alternative fishing spots.
Exceptional Tributary Fishing: Abundant Brown Trout (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Despite challenges in the main Buller River, its tributaries offer excellent fishing. These tributaries often hold large brown trout. They provide an escape from the impacts of didymo. This makes them a popular alternative among anglers. Exploration of these areas is highly recommended.
Wilderness Angling: The Nelson Lakes National Park
The Nelson Lakes National Park offers exceptional wilderness fishing. Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa are key destinations. The Travers, Sabine, and D’Urville rivers are also noteworthy. Well-maintained tracks, bridges, and huts enhance accessibility for anglers.
Diverse Fishing Techniques: Lakes and Rivers
Several approaches suit the Nelson Lakes’ waters. Fly fishing proves highly effective in the clear rivers and lakes. Trolling can also be productive in the lakes, particularly at certain times of the year. Good numbers of trout are present, offering anglers excellent chances of success. Water taxi services on the lakes increase access to prime locations.
Clarence Catchment/Molesworth (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Molesworth Station: A Premier Backcountry Fishing Destination
Molesworth Station stands out as a premier backcountry fishing destination. It provides an extensive range of angling opportunities. The diverse landscape caters to anglers of all experience levels. The area boasts a variety of waterways, each offering unique challenges and rewards. This makes it attractive to both seasoned and novice anglers.
The Mighty Clarence River: Salmon and Trout Opportunities
The Clarence River, the area’s dominant waterway, flows to the sea north of Kaikoura. It’s renowned as a significant salmon fishery. Furthermore, the river itself offers opportunities for trout fishing. However, the lower and middle sections often have high silt loads. These silt loads significantly impact water clarity for much of the year. Fortunately, periods of clearer water do occur, most commonly during summer and mid-winter.
The Acheron River System: Abundant Trout in Remote Settings (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Acheron River and its numerous tributaries provide an extensive network of fishable waters. These rivers are known to hold larger trout. Anglers can explore miles of pristine backcountry streams. Foot access is consistently available throughout the summer months. However, vehicle access along the Acheron River is dependent on the Molesworth road’s seasonal opening. This typically runs from October to April, although weather and farming operations can impact accessibility.
High-Altitude Stillwaters: Secluded Fishing Gems
Beyond the rivers, Molesworth Station boasts several high-altitude stillwaters. These offer unique fishing experiences. The Sedgemere Tarns, for example, provide outstanding sight-fishing opportunities. However, reaching these secluded tarns requires a trek, either by foot or bicycle.
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Fish Lake is another notable stillwater, known for its population of larger trout, averaging four to seven pounds. Bowscale Tarn offers a different experience, home to a high population of smaller trout, generally between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds. Nearby Lake Tennyson also provides fishing, though its trout average smaller sizes than those found in the Sedgemere Tarns.
Cobb Reservoir (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Picturesque Backcountry Fishing Experience
Nestled within a remote and strikingly beautiful landscape, Cobb Reservoir presents a unique angling opportunity. This man-made lake is surrounded by lush, bush-covered hills, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The reservoir’s natural beauty is enhanced by its location within a wider river system; the Cobb River feeds the reservoir, while the larger Takaka River subsequently drains it. This interplay of waterways contributes to the reservoir’s unique ecosystem and fishing potential. The resulting environment offers anglers a truly immersive backcountry fishing experience.
Accessing Cobb Reservoir: A Scenic but Challenging Journey
Reaching Cobb Reservoir requires a scenic drive along the Cobb Dam Road, situated approximately 40 kilometers from the small town of Takaka. This journey, while rewarding in terms of its visual appeal, presents certain challenges. The road, although sealed, is relatively narrow and features numerous winding sections.
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Therefore, it’s crucial for anglers to exercise caution and allow ample time for the drive, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey to their fishing destination. The travel time from Nelson is approximately 1.5 hours and 45 minutes from Motueka, offering a variety of access points for anglers depending on their location.
Fishing the Reservoir: Techniques and Water Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Cobb Reservoir, characterized by its relatively small size and shallow depth, offers a unique set of fishing conditions. While it holds a substantial population of trout, the fish are generally of average size, with the majority falling around the two-pound mark. However, larger fish are definitely present, offering a challenge to the skilled angler. Trout are often observed cruising close to the shoreline, particularly on clear, calm days, making shore fishing from the road bordering the southern shore a feasible and productive option.
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Nevertheless, many anglers find that using a boat significantly improves their fishing success rate, allowing access to a wider range of fishing spots. It’s important to note that water levels in the reservoir can fluctuate due to electricity generation activities, which can impact accessibility and fishing areas, creating a dynamic fishing experience. The best fishing is typically found around the point where the Cobb River enters the reservoir.
Fish Populations and Size Distribution: A Diverse Trout Fishery
The Cobb Reservoir boasts a healthy trout population, with a majority of the fish falling within the average size range of approximately two pounds. However, the presence of larger trout adds excitement and challenges for anglers seeking a trophy catch.
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This diverse size distribution presents opportunities for anglers employing various techniques and strategies. The overall abundance of trout, coupled with the presence of larger specimens, ensures a rewarding experience for anglers of varying skill levels and aspirations. Experienced anglers can often locate larger trout that can offer a more substantial fight.
Access and Amenities at Cobb Reservoir: Planning Your Fishing Trip (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Cobb Dam Road provides convenient access to the reservoir. A designated car park is available at the road’s end, providing a safe and convenient starting point for anglers. From this point, anglers can easily access both the lake itself for shore fishing and the nearby Cobb River for additional angling opportunities.
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For those who prefer to fish from a boat, a boat ramp is provided at the car park, enabling convenient launching and retrieving of boats. However, anglers should be aware that the journey to the reservoir involves driving a boat across a somewhat challenging road, requiring careful planning and appropriate vehicle preparation. This access point provides a central hub for all fishing activities at Cobb Reservoir.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: A Variety of Successful Strategies
Anglers targeting trout in Cobb Reservoir will find a variety of effective lures and techniques. Nymph patterns, particularly small nymphs such as Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and Caddis imitations (sizes 14 and smaller) prove highly effective, especially when fished along the lake edges where cruising trout are commonly found. Small dry flies, such as Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, or Adams, can produce results throughout the day but tend to be most effective during early morning or evening rises.
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Sub-surface fishing with small wet flies like Greenwell’s Glory and March Brown also yields good results. For those who prefer trolling, spinners such as Black Toby, Tasmanian Devils, or Cobras are consistently effective methods for attracting and catching trout within the reservoir. The varied selection of potential lures and techniques ensures anglers can find a suitable method to match the specific conditions they encounter.
Cobb River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Remote Wilderness Fishing Experience
The Cobb River offers a unique angling experience. It’s a remote wilderness river. It flows from Lake Cobb. The river then drains into the man-made Cobb Reservoir. This creates a scenic and challenging environment.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
The Cobb River flows through a bush-covered valley. It winds across tussock flats and beech forests. This makes it attractive for those who enjoy hiking and fishing. The river is beautiful, but it requires some effort to access the best fishing spots.
Fishing the Cobb River: Techniques and Water Conditions
The Cobb River is easy to fish despite its remoteness. The river flows over shingle and gravel. It’s surrounded by bush-covered hills. Rainbow trout are plentiful. They are easily spotted in clear runs and pools. Deep pools hold cruising trout.
Trout Populations and Size: Abundant Trout in the Cobb River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Cobb River has a good population of trout. Both the river and Cobb Reservoir are well stocked. Trout average two to three pounds. The size and abundance of fish make the river highly desirable. This provides a productive fishing experience.
Accessing the Cobb River: Hiking and Scenic Drives
Access requires some hiking. The road ends at Lake Cobb. A track follows the river upstream. DOC huts are available. The Cobb Dam Road leads to the car park. This road is narrow, steep, and winding. Therefore, drive with caution.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for the Cobb River
Several lures consistently produce good results. Small nymphs (size 14 or smaller) work well. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and Caddis imitations. Small dry flies such as Hardies Favourite, Dad’s Favourite, Royal Wulff, and March Brown are effective. Use bushier flies in faster water. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, Twilight Beauty, March Brown) are good sub-surface, particularly for evening rises. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic), especially in red and flashier colors, work well in faster water or deep pools. These are well suited to the trout in this river.
D’Urville River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Pristine Wilderness Fishing Experience
The D’Urville River is highly regarded. It’s known for its wilderness setting. It offers excellent fishing. Large brown and rainbow trout are abundant. The river is in a beautiful mountain environment.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
The D’Urville River flows through a scenic valley. It’s surrounded by bush. It flows into Lake Rotoroa. The river offers a pristine environment. Access requires either a boat, water taxi, or a challenging hike.
Fishing the D’Urville: Techniques and Challenges
The D’Urville River is a true wilderness river. It presents a significant challenge. The water is usually clear, with a bluish tint. The river flows over a wide stone and gravel bed. Trout are easily spotted, particularly in sunny conditions.
Trout Population: Numbers and Average Size (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The D’Urville River’s trout population is moderate to good. Trout are challenging to catch. Most trout weigh four to five pounds. Catch and release is highly recommended. This preserves the fish population for future angling opportunities.
Accessing the D’Urville River: Limited Access Options
Access is limited to boats, water taxis, or hiking. A five-to-six-hour hike is needed from Rotoroa. Alternatively, a 30-minute boat ride is available. This remoteness contributes to its wilderness character and fishing quality. Planning is crucial before a visit.
Recommended Tackle and Gear: Specialized Equipment for Success (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The river’s conditions require specialized equipment. Five-to-seven-weight rods are best. Neutral-colored floating lines are essential. Long leaders (at least 15 feet) with three-kilogram fluorocarbon tippets are needed. This tackle is necessary to handle large trout in a powerful current. High quality equipment is essential for success.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for the D’Urville River
Several lures consistently prove highly effective. Small unweighted nymphs (Pheasant Tail variants, Hares Ear, Hare & Copper) are best in long runs. Cicada patterns (late summer) and beetle patterns (early summer) are effective dry flies. Blue Dun, Greenwell’s Glory, Royal Wulff, or March Brown also work well. Use large visible palmered flies in low, clear water. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, emerger caddis patterns like Invicta) are good sub-surface, particularly for evening rises. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic), especially in flashier colors like red and gold, are also effective in faster water or deep pools. Anglers should choose lures to match the specific conditions.
Daniells Lake (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Remote Rainbow Trout Fishery
Lake Daniells offers excellent rainbow trout fishing. It’s a small, attractive lake. It’s located in a remote area. The lake has a healthy population of rainbow trout. These trout average one to two kilograms.
Lake Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
Lake Daniells lies east of Springs Junction. Its feeder streams originate in the Spenser Mountains. Its outlet flows into the Alfred River. The Alfred River then feeds into the Maruia River. The lake is surrounded by bush, adding to its scenic appeal.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Shoreline Fishing and Sight-Casting
Lake Daniells is largely inaccessible from its steep western shore. The eastern shore is generally wadeable. However, high water levels can make access difficult. Most fishing involves casting to cruising trout along drop-offs. Clear water after dry periods provides excellent sight-fishing.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Lake Daniells has a good rainbow trout population. Most trout average one to two kilograms. Larger trout, exceeding 3.5 kilograms, are also present. This combination of abundance and larger specimens makes it a very attractive fishing spot. This makes it a highly desirable destination.
Accessing Lake Daniells: Hiking and Hut Accommodation
You can access Lake Daniells via a well-defined track. This track begins five kilometers south of Springs Junction, on State Highway 7. The walk takes approximately two hours. A hut accommodating 40 people is available at the lake. Book your hut stay through the Department of Conservation.
Recommended Fishing Methods and Tackle: Adapting to Varying Conditions
Various fishing methods are effective on Lake Daniells. Nymphs, streamers, and spinners work throughout the year. Dry fly fishing is excellent in warmer months. Five-to-seven-weight fly rods with long (12-foot-plus) leaders are recommended. Five-to-ten-gram lures are suitable for spinning. Polarized sunglasses and insect repellent are essential. This allows for greater comfort and enhances fishing success.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for Lake Daniells (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures consistently produce results on Lake Daniells. Effective dry flies include Humpies, Coch-y-Bondhu, Blowfly, Adams, and Blue Dun. Emerger patterns and Green Caddis are productive nymphs. Bully patterns (Mrs. Simpson, Kilwell, Hamill’s Killer, Woolly Buggers) work well as wet flies. Small, dark spinners (green Rapalas, green and black Veltics, Zebra Toby patterns) are effective choices. The selection of lures ensures anglers can adapt their strategy based on conditions and fish behavior.
Exploring Nearby Waters: Extending Your Fishing Trip
The nearby Alfred River offers additional fishing opportunities. This provides an extension for your fishing trip. This allows anglers to explore different environments. The Alfred River often contains larger trout.
Dove River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Productive Early-Season Trout Fishery
The Dove River, a small tributary of the Motueka River, offers excellent fishing. It’s best fished early in the season. The river is near Woodstock. Reasonable numbers of trout are present. This makes it an enjoyable destination.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Scenic Beauty
The Dove River joins the Motueka near Woodstock. It’s easily accessible from SH16 or SH60. The river is shallow and easily waded. The river bed is primarily shingle with rocky outcrops. This creates a very appealing setting for anglers.
Fishing the Dove River: Techniques and Challenges
The Dove River is best fished in its upper reaches. The river is small, clear, and easily disturbed. Therefore, stealth and careful approaches are necessary. Vegetation along the banks provides cover for trout. Careful casting is important for success.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Dove River holds a decent trout population. Numbers are higher early in the season. Fish are smaller in warmer months. Trout size varies, with some larger fish present, especially early in the season. This makes it worthwhile despite lower numbers later in the year.
Accessing the Dove River: Multiple Access Points
Access is convenient from two different routes. One route follows Dovedale Road off SH16 at Woodstock. Another route is via Neudorf Road, accessed from SH60 near Upper Moutere. The river is easily accessed from both routes. Check local access maps for the most up-to-date information.
Recommended Tackle and Lures: Light Gear for a Small Stream
Light tackle is recommended for the Dove River. An eight-to-eight-and-a-half-foot, four-or-five-weight rod is ideal. Very small, lightly weighted nymphs (sizes 16–18) such as Pheasant Tails and Hares Ear are effective. Terrestrial fly imitations (Dad’s Favourite, Greenwell’s Glory), beetle patterns (Coch-y-Bondhu), Adams, and other mayfly patterns are good choices for dry flies. Small wet flies such as March Brown or Greenwell’s Glory perform well sub-surface, particularly during evening rises. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are a reliable option. Matching the hatch and adapting to changing light conditions are important aspects of fishing success in this river.