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.
Opawa River and Taylor stream (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Accessible Marlborough Trout Fisheries
The Opawa River offers accessible trout fishing. It’s a small river near Blenheim. The river meanders across open farmland. It holds a moderate population of trout. These trout are generally smaller than in other rivers.
River Setting and Location: Proximity to Blenheim and Easy Access
The Opawa River flows near Blenheim. It joins the Wairau River near its mouth. The river’s location makes it convenient for anglers. The open farmland setting provides relatively easy access. The easily accessible location contributes to its appeal.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Challenges and Opportunities (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Opawa River is a relatively slow-moving river. It has abundant aquatic vegetation. This vegetation provides food for the trout. However, this weed can hinder fishing during warmer months. Easy casting is possible due to the open banks.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
The Opawa River’s trout population is moderate. However, the trout are relatively small. Most fish weigh one to two pounds. Taylor Stream, a tributary, also holds trout. However, it’s not considered a highly productive fishing spot.
Accessing the Opawa River: Multiple Access Points near Blenheim
The Opawa River’s proximity to Blenheim greatly enhances its accessibility. Numerous access points exist along the river. This makes the river easy to reach for local anglers. The open farmland setting makes accessing the river very simple. This contributes significantly to its popularity.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Water Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures are effective in the Opawa River. Small, lightly weighted nymphs (size 16) such as Pheasant Tail and Hare & Copper are good choices. Small terrestrial dry flies like Greenwell’s Glory or Adams are effective. Small wet flies (March Brown, Greenwell’s Glory) are best during evening rises.
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Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are also productive. Anglers should choose lures that match the specific conditions, selecting smaller patterns during warmer months when weed growth can be more significant. The river’s accessibility and straightforward fishing conditions make it an excellent location for novice anglers or those seeking a relaxed fishing experience. The open nature of the river allows anglers to easily cast from the banks.
Taylor Stream: A Less Productive Tributary
Taylor Stream is a tributary of the Opawa River. It flows north before meeting the Opawa near Blenheim. This tributary also holds trout. However, it is not as productive as the Opawa River itself. It offers a smaller, less challenging alternative. The Taylor Stream generally has a lower population of trout and therefore may not be considered as highly productive as the Opawa River.
Owen River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Highly-Regarded Trout Fishery near Murchison
The Owen River is a popular trout fishing destination. It’s known for large brown trout. The river winds through bush and scrub. The river joins the Buller River. Many consider it a purist’s river.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Scenic Beauty
The Owen River is easily accessible by car. It’s about two hours from Nelson. Murchison is ten minutes away. St Arnaud is only 20 minutes away. The river flows over a stone and shingle bed. Bush and scrub line its banks. Water clarity is generally good.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Challenges and Rewards (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Owen River offers many kilometers of fishable water. However, anglers often must navigate bank-side vegetation. The clear water provides excellent sight-fishing opportunities. This river is popular but it experiences considerable fishing pressure. This means anglers should book in advance.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
The Owen River holds a good number of trout. This is especially true early in the season. Trout average around four pounds (two kilograms). Many larger trout are also present. This contributes to the river’s popularity. Many large trout are caught here.
Accessing the Owen River: Multiple Access Points and Considerations
You can access the lower Owen River from State Highway 6. The middle and upper reaches are best accessed via Owen Valley East Road. Owen Valley West Road follows Johnston Creek. This road doesn’t reach the upper river. Always check access maps and respect private land.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures prove effective on the Owen River. Lightly weighted nymphs (size 16) are recommended. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and Green Stonefly patterns. Heavier weights may be necessary for deeper pools. Popular dry flies include Coch-y-Bondhu, Molefly, Royal Wulff, and Humpy patterns. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, emerger sedge flies, size 14) are productive sub-surface, especially during evening rises.
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Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are also effective in faster water or deep pools. Anglers should carefully choose their lures based on the specific conditions of each section of the river. The varied character of the river and its relatively easy accessibility contribute to its overall popularity with anglers. The clear water allows anglers to spot fish, increasing the chances of success with well-chosen lures.
Paturau Stream (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Scenic West Coast Trout Fishery
The Paturau River offers a unique fishing experience. It’s a small, picturesque river. It flows through native bush. It eventually reaches the sea south of Cape Farewell. It’s known for its scenic beauty.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
The Paturau River’s source is the Wakamarama Range. It’s approximately a 45-minute drive from Collingwood. This remote river is in Golden Bay. The river flows through a beautiful, isolated area. The river is easily accessible in the lower reaches.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Challenges and Rewards (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Paturau River flows through native bush. The river has rapids, glides, and pools. It flows over a shingle and rock bed. The water is generally clear. Trout are challenging to catch because of the clear water.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
The Paturau River’s trout population is moderate to low. The trout are primarily brown trout. Most trout weigh about three pounds. Many anglers visit the Paturau River for its scenery and less for the fishing opportunities. This is an area of high scenic value.
Accessing the Paturau River: Road Access and Hiking
A small road provides access to the lower reaches. This road branches off from the main road near Collingwood. However, access to the upper reaches requires hiking. Anglers must navigate through some dense vegetation to reach the upper river. This makes this area less accessible than other nearby rivers.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures consistently produce results. Small nymphs (Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails) are effective. Heavier nymphs work best in deeper pools. Small dry flies (Hardies Favourite, Dad’s Favourite, March Brown) are suitable. Use bushier flies in faster water. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown) work well sub-surface, especially during evening rises.
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Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are also effective. Silver Toby spinners work well in the estuary during whitebait runs. This attracts larger sea-run trout. Anglers should adapt their choice of lures based on the specific conditions and location on the river. The river is particularly rewarding for those who value scenic beauty in addition to a fishing experience.
Pearse River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Challenging Trout Fishery near the Motueka
The Pearse River offers trout fishing opportunities. It’s a small tributary of the Motueka River. Fishing is best in the lower reaches. The river is near Woodstock. Fishing is more productive early in the season.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Features
The Pearse River joins the Motueka River. This is downstream from Woodstock. The river flows over a shingle bed. Abundant vegetation lines the banks. This vegetation can create obstacles for anglers.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Challenges and Rewards (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Pearse River presents challenges to anglers. The river is small and densely vegetated. Therefore, stealthy approaches are essential. The vegetation provides cover for trout. This means that careful casting is vital for success.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
Trout numbers are relatively low in the Pearse River. However, more trout are present early in the season. The overall size of the fish is also relatively low. The abundance of vegetation may affect the size of the fish. This means that this is not a location for large trout.
Accessing the Pearse River: Limited Access Points and Considerations
A small side road provides access to the lower reaches. However, walking is necessary to reach many fishable sections. Anglers must often navigate through dense vegetation. This is particularly true in the upper sections of the river. Respect private property boundaries.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures are highly effective in the Pearse River. Very small, lightly weighted nymphs (sizes 16–18) such as Pheasant Tails and Hares Ear are recommended. Terrestrial dry fly imitations (Dad’s Favourite, Greenwell’s Glory) and beetle patterns (Coch-y-Bondhu) are suitable. These are most effective early in the summer.
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Small wet flies (March Brown or Greenwell’s Glory) work well sub-surface during evening rises. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) also produce good results. Anglers should adjust their lure selection and approach based on the specific conditions and the time of year. Light gear and stealth are important because of the river’s characteristics and its relatively small population of trout. The river presents a unique challenge to the experienced angler.
Pelorus Catchment (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Scenic Contrast: The Pelorus River’s Diverse Landscape
The Pelorus River presents a captivating duality. Its headwaters carve a path through a wild, rugged terrain. In contrast, the lower reaches flow gently across gentler lowlands. This creates remarkably diverse habitats. Consequently, the river supports a wide range of aquatic life, particularly trout. These diverse environments offer unique angling challenges.
A Predominantly Brown Trout Fishery: Size and Abundance
Brown trout overwhelmingly dominate the Pelorus River’s fish population. Roughly 70% of the trout are brown trout. These fish typically range in size from one to a substantial seven pounds. Rainbow trout, while present, are less numerous. They account for approximately 30% of the trout population. These rainbows generally reach up to three pounds.
The Rai River: A Smaller, Yet Productive Tributary (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Adding to the Pelorus system’s appeal is the Rai River. It flows into the Pelorus, offering a more tranquil angling experience. This smaller river sustains a healthy mix of both brown and rainbow trout. Importantly, the Rai River also features several smaller tributaries. These smaller streams provide additional, less-pressured fishing spots.
Exceptional Winter Fishing and Accessibility: A River for All
While trout numbers are generally lower in the Pelorus above the Rai confluence, this section still offers rewarding fishing. It’s particularly suitable for less experienced anglers. In addition, winter fishing remains excellent in the Rai River. Access is readily available, extending all the way to Carluke Bridge, even during the colder months. This consistent accessibility enhances the river’s overall appeal.
Rai River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Premier Dry Fly and Nymph Fishery
The Rai River offers exceptional fishing. It’s a small, easily accessible river. It’s known for its abundant trout. Dry fly and nymph fishing are highly productive. The river is a very popular location.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
The Rai River originates near Kenepuru Sound. It flows inland. The Rai River joins the Pelorus River. This is just below the Pelorus Bridge reserve. Three major branches feed the upper Rai River.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Varied River Features and Abundant Trout (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Rai River has varied features. These include riffles, glides, pools, and rapids. The river flows mainly over open land. Bankside vegetation provides cover for trout. The river is renowned for dry fly fishing. However, nymphing and spinning are also productive.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
The Rai River has a high trout population. This is particularly true above the falls. Trout average two to three pounds. The headwaters and tributaries hold fewer fish. However, these trout are larger, averaging three to four pounds. The abundance of trout makes this a prime fishing spot.
Accessing the Rai River: Convenient Road Access and Tributary Exploration
State Highway 6 runs alongside much of the Rai River. Many access points are clearly marked. This makes it very accessible. The three upper tributaries are also easily accessible. They are near small roads. However, always obtain permission from landowners before fishing on private land. This is always a good practice.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures prove highly effective. Small nymphs (size 14 or smaller) work well. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and Caddis imitations. Small dry flies (Black Gnat, Adams, Dad’s Favourite, March Brown) are productive. Bushier flies (Coch-y-Bondhu) are good in faster water.
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Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, Invicta emerger sedge patterns) work well sub-surface. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are also effective. Use flashier colors when spinning for rainbow trout. Anglers should choose lures to match the conditions and their preferred method. The varied river conditions and the different populations of both brown and rainbow trout provide many challenges for the experienced angler.
Exploring Tributaries: Expanding Your Fishing Options
Above Rai Valley, the Rai River divides into three tributaries. These are the Ronga, Tunakino, and Opouri rivers. Each tributary offers excellent fishing. They are small rivers, flowing mostly over open farmland. Water levels can decrease in dry weather, but fish remain in faster water and deeper pools. This makes them worthwhile exploring. These tributaries provide excellent fishing in their own right. They add to the overall appeal and options for anglers visiting the Rai River.
Rainbow River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Challenging Wilderness Trout Fishery
The Rainbow River is a highly-regarded wilderness fishery. It’s a major tributary of the Wairau River. It holds a significant population of large brown trout. Salmon are also present. However, salmon fishing is prohibited.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
The Rainbow River is snow-fed. It flows through rapids and deep pools. The river joins the Wairau River. This is upstream from the Rainbow Ski Field. The river is about two hours from Nelson and one hour from Blenheim.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Challenges and Rewards (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Rainbow River’s remoteness offers solitude. This also presents challenges to anglers. It requires experienced anglers. Many kilometers of challenging fishing exist. The river is surrounded by forest and mountains. The river is suitable for experienced anglers.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
The Rainbow River has a low number of trout. However, the trout are very large and in excellent condition. Some reach trophy sizes (over 10 pounds). Salmon are present, but fishing for salmon is strictly prohibited. Catch-and-release is strictly enforced for all salmon.
Accessing the Rainbow River: Multiple Access Points and Considerations
Accessing the Rainbow River is challenging. You can hike or drive, with permission. Contact Rainbow Station for road access. The road is open December through February. It costs $20 per vehicle. The road closes for cattle mustering in early January. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is essential for the Hanmer Springs Hydro road. Obtain permission from the Department of Conservation.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures are effective on the Rainbow River. Large, weighted nymphs work best in deep pools and fast water. Smaller nymphs are suitable elsewhere. Use Pheasant Tail or Hare & Copper patterns. Bushy palmered dry flies are effective in riffles and rapids. Adams, March Brown, or Coachman flies work in calmer waters.
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Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, Purple & Grouse, Twilight Beauty) are effective sub-surface. Spinners (Toby patterns, Mepps, or Veltic) work well in pools and faster water. The diverse river conditions require adaptable techniques and lure choices. The challenging environment and the potential for catching very large trout attract many skilled anglers each year. The Rainbow River rewards anglers willing to make the effort to reach this pristine environment.
Riwaka River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Scenic Trout Fishery near Motueka
The Riwaka River offers excellent trout fishing. It’s a scenic river near Motueka. Anglers often sight-cast to trout. The river holds a good number of large trout. Catch-and-release is strongly encouraged.
River Setting and Origin: Two Branches and Varied Habitats
The Riwaka River has two headwater branches. The North Branch starts at a spring. This spring is in the Takaka Hills. The South Branch originates in the Arthur Range. It flows through bush and farmland before reaching the sea.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Varied River Features and Abundant Trout (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The lower Riwaka River has deep glides and pools. Many trout live here. Sight-casting is difficult here. Upstream, the river flows over stone and gravel. Overhanging trees provide cover for the trout. Clear water allows for easy sighting of trout.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
Trout numbers are highest in the lower reaches. Good numbers exist throughout the river. However, fewer trout are in the headwaters. The headwater trout tend to be larger and more wary. Trout average three to four pounds. Some surprisingly large fish also inhabit the river.
Accessing the Riwaka River: Road Access and Landowner Permissions
The Takaka-Motueka road crosses the Riwaka River. The Riwaka Valley Road follows the river. This road provides easy access to many sections. However, you often need to cross farmland. Therefore, always obtain permission from landowners before you cross their property. This will ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to this area.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Several lures are very effective in the Riwaka River. Small nymphs (size 16) are recommended. These include Hare & Copper, Pheasant Tails, and small shaggy nymphs. Heavier nymphs may be necessary in deeper, faster sections. Small winged dry flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, Adams) are highly effective. Green Beetles (early summer) and Cicada patterns (late summer) are also very effective.
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Small wet flies (March Brown, Greenwell’s Glory, sedge emerger patterns) work well sub-surface, particularly during evening rises. Small bladed spinners (Veltic or Mepps) are consistently effective. Anglers should adjust their lure choice and fishing techniques to match the specific conditions and characteristics of each section of the river. The varied character of the river provides many challenges for skilled anglers. The readily available access points and the scenic beauty of the area contribute significantly to its appeal.
Rotoiti Lake (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Deep, Pristine Trout Fishery
Lake Rotoiti offers excellent trout fishing. It’s a deep, clean lake. It’s surrounded by forested mountains. Brown trout thrive in this environment. The lake is a self-sustaining fishery.
Lake Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
Lake Rotoiti is the source of the Buller River. It’s about an hour and 15 minutes from Nelson. Blenheim is an hour away. The Travers River feeds Lake Rotoiti. This snow-fed river enters at the southern end.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Boat-Based Fishing is Recommended (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Lake Rotoiti’s clear, cold water provides ideal trout habitat. However, dense bush limits shore fishing. Good fishing occurs near the Buller River outlet. The Travers River mouth is another productive area. Most anglers fish from boats, using trolling, spinning, or fly fishing techniques.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
Lake Rotoiti has a robust brown trout population. Trout average three to four pounds. Large trout are regularly caught. Trophy-sized fish are also possible. This makes it a desirable location for anglers.
Accessing Lake Rotoiti: Boat Ramps and Highway Access (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
St Arnaud is the only town on Lake Rotoiti. Highway 63 leads to St Arnaud. This highway branches off State Highway 6. Two boat ramps are available. One is in St Arnaud. The other is at the lake’s northern end. This ensures convenient access for boat-based fishing.
Recommended Fishing Methods and Tackle: Adapting to Varying Conditions
Boat-based fishing is recommended on Lake Rotoiti. Trolling, spinning, and fly fishing are effective. Large, heavily weighted nymphs (sizes 10–14) work well. Pheasant Tail, Hare & Copper, and Green Stonefly patterns are productive. Terrestrial flies are effective around the shoreline. Large streamer flies (Parson’s Glory, Rabbit fly) are effective when trolled or harled. Use dark colors at night; lighter colors during the day. Spinners (Toby patterns, Tasmanian Devils, Cobra) are highly effective, either cast or trolled. This allows for a variety of fishing approaches.
Rotoroa Lake (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Pristine Wilderness Fishing Destination
Lake Rotoroa, nestled within Nelson Lakes National Park, offers exceptional trout fishing. This deep, pristine lake is surrounded by dense native bush and towering mountains. It supports a large, self-sustaining population of brown trout. Many of these trout reach impressive sizes.
Lake Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
Located approximately 30 minutes from St Arnaud and one hour from Nelson, Lake Rotoroa is easily accessible by road. However, much of the shoreline is lined with untouched native forest. Consequently, anglers often utilize boats or water taxis. This enhances access to many fishing spots. The lake is the source of the Gowan River, and the D’Urville and Sabine rivers flow into it.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Boat-Based Fishing is Highly Recommended (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Lake Rotoroa’s deep, cold, and remarkably clear water provides ideal habitat for trout. The lake’s depth, combined with the dense shoreline vegetation, limits productive shore-based fishing to a few specific areas. Therefore, boat-based fishing is highly recommended to fully explore the lake’s vast expanse. Anglers utilizing boats can effectively employ trolling, spinning, and fly fishing techniques. Shore fishing near river mouths, such as the Gowan River outlet, or where tributaries enter the lake offers the most success.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
Lake Rotoroa boasts a substantial trout population. Both brown and rainbow trout reside within its waters. Trout average three to four pounds; however, many much larger fish are frequently caught. The presence of these trophy-sized trout significantly enhances the lake’s appeal to experienced anglers seeking a challenging and rewarding fishing experience. Many anglers return year after year.
Accessing Lake Rotoroa: Multiple Access Points and Considerations
Access to Lake Rotoroa is primarily via the Gowan Valley Road. This road branches off State Highway 6, between Nelson and Murchison. A small settlement exists near the Gowan River outlet. Beyond this area, the region assumes a distinctly wild character. This makes it a true wilderness fishing experience. While driving to the lake is easy, accessing fishing spots along the shoreline frequently requires considerable walking along defined tracks, emphasizing the need for good footwear and preparation.
Recommended Fishing Methods and Tackle: Adapting to Lake Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Lake Rotoroa’s size and depth demand appropriate tackle. Anglers commonly use boats to access productive fishing locations. Trolling, spinning, and fly fishing are all effective. For fly fishing, large, heavily weighted nymphs (sizes 10-14), particularly Pheasant Tail, Hare & Copper, or Green Stonefly patterns are particularly productive. Dry fly fishing can be effective near the shore during warmer months, especially in the early morning or evening, employing patterns like Humpy, Coch-y-Bondhu, Royal Wulff, or large sedge patterns when trout are near the surface.
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Wet fly fishing often involves larger streamer patterns, such as Parson’s Glory or Rabbit fly, trolled or harled. Darker colors are typically better at night, while lighter colors are generally more effective during the day. Spinners, whether cast or trolled, are also a highly productive method, with Toby patterns, Tasmanian Devils, or Cobra spinners being among the most effective. The use of boats allows anglers to move easily and use a variety of fishing methods.
Sabine River (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Pristine Wilderness Trout Fishery
The Sabine River offers exceptional trout fishing. It’s a wilderness river. It’s known for its large trout. Both brown and rainbow trout are present. The river is located within a stunning natural setting.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
The Sabine River is a major tributary of Lake Rotoroa. It’s a challenging but rewarding location to fish. The river flows through wooded mountain valleys. Access requires either a challenging hike or a boat. It’s a five-to-six hour walk or a 30-minute boat ride from Rotoroa.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Adapting to Varied River Features (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Sabine River offers many kilometers of fishable water. The upper reaches are generally easier to fish. The lower reaches are often cluttered with debris. A challenging gorge section is also present. The clear water allows for sight-fishing in many areas.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
The Sabine River has a good trout population. Both brown and rainbow trout are present. Trout average three to four pounds. Many larger trout exist. Trophy-sized trout are also present. This river is very popular for catching large trout.
Accessing the Sabine River: Limited Access Options
You can only access the Sabine River by foot or by boat. A five-to-six-hour hike is required from Rotoroa. Alternatively, a water taxi can transport anglers directly to the river. The remoteness adds to the wilderness experience. The effort required to access the river enhances the fishing experience.
Recommended Tackle and Gear: Specialized Equipment for Success (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
The Sabine River requires specialized tackle. This allows for proper presentation and control of large trout. The river’s clear water makes stealthy approaches essential. This is particularly important when targeting large trout. The use of a water taxi is highly recommended.
Recommended Lures: Effective Patterns for the Sabine River
Several lures are very effective in the Sabine River. Small unweighted nymphs (Pheasant Tail variants, Hares Ear, Hare & Copper) are highly productive. Cicada patterns (late summer) and beetle patterns (early summer) are effective dry flies. Greenwell’s Glory, Royal Wulff, or March Brown dry flies also work well. Large, visible palmered flies are effective in fast, shallow water.
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Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, Invicta emerger sedge patterns) are highly productive sub-surface, particularly during evening rises. Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) are also very effective, especially in faster sections of the river. The angler should carefully consider the varied conditions before choosing their lures. The combination of challenging access, stunning scenery, and opportunities for catching trophy-sized trout make the Sabine River a unique and highly desirable fishing destination.
Spring Creek (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
A Challenging Dry Fly Fishery near Blenheim
Spring Creek offers excellent dry fly fishing. It’s a spring-fed stream. It’s near Blenheim. However, intensive farming has impacted it. Fish numbers are lower than in the past.
River Setting and Location: Accessibility and Natural Beauty
Spring Creek rises in the hills south of Blenheim. It flows across farmland. The river joins the Wairau River. The river is lined with willows and grasses. This makes it a very appealing location for fishing.
Fishing Conditions and Techniques: Clear Water and Challenging Trout (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Spring Creek’s water is crystal clear. Abundant aquatic vegetation provides cover. This also provides food for trout. Lower reaches are near horticulture. Fishing has declined in recent years in the lower reaches.
Trout Population: Numbers and Size Distribution
Trout numbers are low in the lower reaches. However, these trout are larger (around four pounds). Numbers are higher upstream. Upstream trout average two to three pounds. This makes this location less desirable for large trout.
Accessing Spring Creek: Multiple Access Points near Blenheim
Spring Creek is easily accessed. You can reach the river via O’Dwyers and Ruapara Roads. State Highway 1 also crosses the river near Blenheim. This provides multiple access points for anglers. However, always respect private property rights.
Recommended Lures and Techniques: Adapting to Varying Conditions (Marlborough Fishing Spots)
Weighted Caddis nymphs are effective lures. Pheasant Tails and Hare & Copper also work well. Use small sizes (size 16 is best). Dry flies (Adams, Greenwell’s Glory, Dad’s Favourite, Twilight Beauty) are good choices. Use sizes 16–18. Small wet flies (Greenwell’s Glory, March Brown, Scotch Poacher, Hairy Dog) are also productive, especially at night.
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Small bladed spinners (Veltic or Mepps) can also be used, but this river is better suited to fly fishing. Stealth and accurate casting are essential for success, given the clear water and wary trout. The challenges of fishing Spring Creek, combined with its accessibility and proximity to Blenheim, make it an appealing destination for anglers of varying skill levels. The scenic beauty also adds to its overall appeal.