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Wellington > Fisheries
MANAWATU - RANGITIKEI DISTRICT
Manawatu River
The Manawatu River has its source east of the Ruahine Range yet uniquely discharges into the Tasman Sea west of the ranges. Its 170kms of fishable water flow in a south-westerly direction beginning north of Dannevirke, past Woodville, Ashhurst, Palmerston North and Foxton. Access is readily available from a number of roads either paralleling or leading to the river over most of its length. Almost all of the fishing is done between Dannevirke and Palmerston North. Fishing conditions vary as the river changes from a very small gravel bed channel meandering past papa cliffs to the expansive, slow flowing and often turbid waters of the lower river. Throughout its length, the brown trout is the mainstay of this fishery although rainbow trout are becoming more numerous and perch are common below Palmerston North. Favoured fishing methods vary in response to conditions and the season. For the fly fisherman, awareness of changes in behaviour of the fish is invaluable. Early in the season the fish are forgiving, but as summer progresses and water levels fall, anglers’ patience and precision is tested. “Blind” fishing is common but many anglers relish the excitement of stalking their fish. Artificial flies should be medium to small (sizes 12-18), with common nymph and sedge patterns very popular. Throughout the season, dawn excursions often find trout cruising in the shallows. Use small caddis imitations and stalk your fish - a bank-side spotter can be invaluable. Small wet flies fished down and across are an excellent way of finding fish in the large open water.
Mangatainoka River
The Mangatainoka River, its source in the eastern Tararua Range parallels SH2 flowing in a north-easterly direction toward Pahiatua. It is has about 50km of fishable water with numerous roads leading to the river off SH2 where anglers will discover the amazing number of bridges (13) crossing it allowing easy access to most of the river. The upper reaches at Putara are excellent early in the season with tantalising clear, deep pools and boulder runs. Following the onset of warm temperatures most of the trout drop back downstream. The middle and lower reaches are mostly willow lined, similar in character, with long pools and glides interspersed with shallow riffles.
Makuri River
The Makuri River, a tributary of the Tiraumea River, is east of Pahiatua and flows in a westerly direction. Access is initially off SH2 onto the Pahiatua/Akitio/Pongaroa Road. A challenging small river rising in the limestone country of the Puketoi Ranges, the Makuri is the closest to a chalk stream we have in this region. The most easily accessible fishing is above the gorge upstream of the Makuri Township. Below the township the river flows through a rugged gorge of huge boulders and fast tumbling waters. Access is difficult. From the gorge to the Tiraumea River confluence the river flows slowly in a deeply incised channel. Fishing is often difficult so a long leader, light line and delicate presentation is the key. Both nymph and dry fly are popular with some of the larger sizes worth a try. A good caddis hatch occurs on warm evenings but the fish response is unpredictable. Morning is regarded as the best time to be on the Makuri.
Tiraumea River
The source of the Tiraumea River is in the sandstone/mudstone hill country east of Pahiatua and flows in a northerly direction to join the Manawatu River near Woodville. Access is initially off SH2 at Mangatainoka or Pahiatua. The least well known of the rivers in the Pahiatua region, the Tiraumea is not heavily fished. Flowing slowly through a deeply incised channel the substrate is predominantly covered in sediment, though there is an extensive area of gravel near Kohinui and this is the most favoured area with anglers. The fish have a tendency to cruise, making a careful approach to sighted fish with dry fly or an unweighted caddis nymph the favoured method. Access is not easy because of steep sided stream banks that are often heavily vegetated.
Mangahao River
The Mangahao flows from the eastern flank of the Tararua Range in a north-easterly direction toward Woodville. Access from Palmerston North or Pahiatua (SH2) is off the Pahiatua Track road. It is an attractive river to fish although being a comparatively steep river its highly varied flow produces inconsistent numbers of fish. The best fishing is early in the season and a mild stable winter seems to encourage fish to remain in the river. De-silting of the dams in the headwaters occurs in March with the river being unfishable for some time until it clears. The upper reaches within the Tararua Forest Park produce few fish, usually large jacks.
Makakahi River
The Makakahi River drains from the eastern Tararua Range and flows in a north-easterly direction toward Pahiatua. It parallels SH2 and is accessible off this highway for all of its length. Most fishing is focused on the 30km or so between Eketahuna and its confluence with the Mangatainoka River. Upstream of this point the fishing tends to be patchy, with the early season favoured. The flow is often gentle, with few riffles and as a result the fish tend to cruise, seldom holding stations. For anglers who like to poke around among the willows intercepting cruising fish, it is an ideal piece of water. A careful approach and presentation is needed. Casts are usually short and often the fly can just be dropped below the rod tip from in amongst the willows.
Pohangina River
The Pohangina River has its source on the western flank of the Ruahine Range and flows southward to join the Manawatu River at Ashhurst. Access initially is off SH3 onto Pohangina Road and then either Pohangina Road East or Pohangina Road West that parallel the river for 40km or so. A relatively unstable river in a wide channel with extensive gravel beaches. Good trout numbers occur along the length of the river, though they fluctuate depending on the frequency and severity of flooding. Popular locations are either adjacent to the bridge at Raumai where a picnic area provides easy riverbank access or Totara Reserve, a further 10km upstream. Natural barriers to upstream fish movement means there are few fish, if any, within the Forest Park. It is a river best suited to fishing to sighted fish, although nymphing, spinning or bait fishing the fast water in runs or the heads of pools, is worth trying.
Kahuterawa Stream
A picturesque small stream near Palmerston North, the small pools and bubbling rapids can provide an enjoyable day’s fishing. The Kahuterawa can hold resident fish throughout the summer but as a spawning tributary of the Manawatu, more consistent success will be achieved either late or early in the season, when pre or post-spawning fish are in residence. Access is off Old West Road behind Massey University.
Tokomaru River
The Tokomaru River rises on the western side of the Tararua Range and flows westerly to cross SH57, between Palmerston North and Shannon. The headwaters provide mountain style fishing in high quality surroundings for good sized but few fish. It is a rugged area with deep pools and numerous large boulders making progress very difficult in places and is only recommended for fit anglers. Fly-fishing is the most productive method. Access to the upper reaches is via the Horseshoe Bend Recreation Reserve off Tokomaru Road. This area is not included within the Forest Park and permission is required. Downstream of SH57 fishing can be rewarding with a little patience and careful stalking. It is best fished early in the season and landowner permission is required.
Oroua River
The Oroua exits the western Ruahine Range at Apiti to flow southward through Feilding. Into the ranges access, off the end of Table Flat Road, is reasonable, and, for the moderately fit angler, the fishing is very enjoyable in scenic and peaceful surroundings although trout numbers are generally low. Downstream to Kiwitea, access is off Oroua Valley and Kimbolton Road. The fishing is fair to good depending on the frequency and severity of floods. Downstream of Kiwitea to Feilding access is of Kimbolton Road and the fishing is variable but generally poor. Below Feilding, access is off Awahuri Road, and while the fishing is good it is best in late winter to early summer before the effects of low flows and waste discharges make it an unattractive proposition.
Rangitikei River
The Rangitikei River has its source in the Kaimanawa Ranges, east of Lake Taupo and flows southward to the Tasman Sea about 50km south of Wanganui. Most of its 241km length provides good to excellent fishing ranging from trophy rainbow and brown trout in wilderness surroundings to estuary dwelling sea-runs. Access to the headwaters is best via helicopter although for the very fit angler there is a track leading off the Desert Road which takes 10-12 hours. The many kilometres of accessible middle and lower reaches are the most popular with year round fishing available. Access is readily available with many roads leading off SH1. Rainbow trout movement through the system has a major influence on fishing success. Typically mature fish move upstream during late autumn early winter, leaving behind good numbers of one and two-year old fish that are ideal for winter fishing. Brown trout are more evenly distributed throughout the river, although mature fish are less available during the winter. Spin fishing is very popular, particularly with “Veltics”, “Dandy’s”, “Rapala’s” and “Z” spinners. When fly-fishing, with either wet-fly or nymph, it is critical to get your fly to the feeding depth of the fish.
Hautapu River
The Hautapu River is unique insofar as its origins are in comparatively unmodified low, rolling tussock country east of Waiouru and not from a mountain range as is the case with most of our river fisheries. It is also unusual in that it is comparatively small and contains good numbers of comparatively large brown trout and is managed as a “trophy” fishery. Access is mostly off SH1, which tends to follow the river and angler access along the majority of the river is public although this is erratic. The river channel is not wide, carries a good stable flow and is tricky to negotiate. The water is, at best, slightly turbid so patient stalking is required unless fishing “blind” the many turbulent bouldery runs. From December on, trout will rise quite freely on warm days and large dry-flies work well.
Kawhatau River
This river runs off, at a fair pace, the western Ruahine Range to meet the Rangitikei just upstream of Mangaweka. Access is off SH1 at Mangaweka, across the Rangitikei River, and then up the Kawhatau Valley Road. Whilst there is evenly spaced access to the river at road bridges, an approach to landowners can be rewarding for access between the bridges. It is a generally unstable river with fish numbers fluctuating and is therefore infrequently fished. Best in either spring or autumn with all methods, depending on river conditions.
Moawhango River
The Moawhango River’s headwaters are east of Waiouru within the NZ Defence Force Army Training Group area. The river flows in a southward direction to join the Rangitikei east of Taihape. A dam, built in 1979, truncates the headwaters diverting these to the Tongariro River leaving the river a shadow of its former self. It is, mostly, a deeply incised river particularly in the lower reaches where angler access is very difficult to impossible. Access to the river below Moawhango village is reasonable as roads parallel the river; upstream though landowner permission is required. Not a well known river to anglers because of the difficulties with access; anglers need to be fit, good at cliff scrambling and occasional deep river crossings. The river, since being diverted in the headwaters has changed from a predominantly rainbow fishery to a brown trout one and generally, good numbers of these can be found. Turbid water can be a problem to the angler when rain falls in the catchment as the Moawhango discolours quickly. Spin fishing is not a practical option and even bait fishing is limited leaving fly fishing a nymph or dry as the preferred method. Trout rise freely on warm summer days.
Whakaurekou River
This river joins the Rangitikei east of Taihape after running off the steep slopes of the western Ruahine Range. Access is either via the Rangitikei River walking upstream from Mokai off the end of Mokai Road (landowner permission required and the river must be low) or via private farm access off Pukeokahu Road opposite the confluence with the Rangitikei. Often unstable, fish numbers can vary greatly from year to year. It is one of the most scenic small river fisheries in the district. Best fished early or late in the season.
HOROWHENUA-KAPITI COAST DISTRICT
This district’s rivers are unusual in the sense they run from the Tararua Range over a short distance to the Tasman Sea. There is not a major river fishery parenting several smaller rivers, as is so for our other districts. As a consequence fishing can be variable as floods have a significant impact on trout recruitment. Nonetheless, there are 3 moderately popular fisheries in the district that invite fishing time.
Waikanae River
A rich angling river, this fishery offers a diverse and rewarding angling experience, particularly to the fly fisher. It is a small river, short, and takes anglers through a “back country” to estuary fishing experience all within 15km. Access is off SH1. To go upstream take Reikorangi Road (access to and along the river is not public); to go downstream take Te Moana Road – there are a number of roads to the river with very good public access along the river. To get to the estuary go down Otaihanga Road which is off SH1 between Paraparaumu and Waikanae. Apart from the unsightly river control works immediately downstream of SH1, it is an attractive river that holds moderate numbers of good conditioned brown trout with the best fishing in the middle and lower reaches unaffected by river control works.
Otaki River
The Otaki, a medium sized river, has an extensive catchment within the Tararua Forest Park and after leaving the Tararua Range, runs a rapid course to sea. It is a highly variable fishery with floods regularly turning over a relatively unstable bed. Access to the Forest Park is off SH1 via Otaki Gorge Road, which follows the south bank of the river. Walking access from the road end can be up to several days and anglers need to be fit and well equipped for mountain fishing. Downstream of the Forest Park the river passes through a gorge for 9km which is best fished from a raft, although trout numbers are usually low. Downstream again, access is best off SH1 walking up the river or by walking downstream on the south bank and fishing back up. All fishing methods are successful under most river conditions. During summer, spin and bait fishing should concentrate on the faster runs and heads of pools.
Ohau River
A small river the fishing is poor in the Forest Park and improves as one progresses downstream. Again, vulnerable to the impact of floods, fish numbers vary greatly. Access is off SH1 and to go upstream take either Muhunoa East Road, Kimberley Road, or to the Forest Park, Tararua and Gladstone Roads. To go downstream, take either Kuku Beach Road or Muhunoa West Road. There is no public access along the river downstream of Kimberley Scenic Reserve – therefore landowner permission is required. Careful stalking and fishing to sighted fish with either a small nymph or dry is recommended. Use of small spinners outside of low summer flows is also rewarding.
WELLINGTON DISTRICT
In the midst of one of the most densely populated areas of New Zealand, Wellington has a surprising array of fishing waters close at hand. Indeed Wellington is probably unique worldwide in having such a range of quality brown trout fishing within a major city.
Hutt River
The Hutt, largest of the Wellington rivers, dominates angling interest. Access is easy with riverside parks or access tracks along most of its length. In general anglers’ fish “blind” and cover the water rather than fish to sighted fish. Spinning or wet fly fishing is also popular. The time for spinning is either early season (particularly if the water is slightly discoloured) or late in the season when trout become aggressive leading up to spawning. Alternatively, try a large weighted nymph such as a size 10 or 12 hare and copper. As water temperatures rise, fish smaller patterns. A small wet fly drifted across the tail of the pool is a favoured method during summer. Mornings or evenings are prime times in the summer. After dark, try a sinking line, Taupo style lure and search the depths.
Wainuiomata River
The Wainuiomata rises in the Rimutaka Range to flow south to the township of Wainuiomata and then out some 20km to sea. Access is off the Wainuiomata Coast Road and landowner permission is required. Dissimilar in nature to all other rivers in the Wellington area, this river, managed as a “trophy” brown trout fishery, provides a real challenge to anglers. Slow flowing, with high banks and little streamside vegetation, it is not difficult to spot the many trout as they cruise lazily near the surface and in backwaters but hooking them is. Most general nymph patterns work, though they should be small (sizes 14-18). Fish will take a dry fly throughout the season, mainly on warm days and in the evening. Bushy patterns such as the Molefly or deer-hair sedge are the favourites at night. Don’t forget the wet fly, either a small hackled wet fly fished in the surface film during the hatch, or larger patterns fished at night. Most of the best fishing is in the middle to lower reaches.
Akatarawa River
Flowing from the southern Tararua Range the Akatarawa is a tributary of the Hutt River, joining at Birchville. Access is either at the Hutt River confluence, where there is public access along the river to the West Akatarawa River, or, off the Akatarawa Road upstream of this junction from which, landowner permission is required both to and along the river. One of three ‘mountain stream’ type rivers it is a clear, swift flowing river carrying a moderate number of fish especially earlier in the summer. The narrow Akatarawa Valley confines the river to a restricted channel with tight rock walled gorges, restricting access for anglers at several points. The highest fish populations occur in the two open areas of the valley at Karapoti and Cloustonville. These reaches have a high proportion of boulder-run habitat that provides excellent fly-fishing. In the main this is a lower density trout fishery. The clear waters assist fish spotting and usually anglers’ fish to sighted fish. Nymphs should be weighted as much of the water is fast flowing.
Pakuratahi River
This river has its headwaters in the Rimutaka Range, flows north under SH2 to join the Hutt River at Kaitoke. Access on the Rimutaka side, is from the Rimutaka Incline Walkway. Transport within this reach is by foot or pushbike with the track following closely to the river for a number of kilometres. The river is confined within a narrow valley and there are regular deep pools where the water flow cuts in against rock bluffs. Fish are few but relatively easy to spot in the clear water in very peaceful, attractive surroundings. In the vicinity of SH2 the river is open, comparatively unstable, with very few fish. Downstream of the Waterworks Road, Kaitoke, access is easily gained from the Kaitoke Regional Park to, initially, an open river with few pools, but quickly entering an impressive setting of native bush and rock bluffs. There is a moderate population of good sized brown trout in deep pools and bouldery runs which provide plenty of cover for fish.
Mangaroa River
The Mangaroa has its headwaters on the western flank of the Rimutaka Range immediately above Upper Hutt. Access is off SH2 to Maymorn and Mangaroa or from central Upper Hutt at Wallaceville to Whitemans Valley Road. Apart from the first 2km upstream of the mouth to Maymorn there is no public access – landowner permission is required to get access to and along the river. Renowned for it’s free rising trout the Mangaroa fishes best early in the season when a number of Hutt River spawners are still loitering before returning to the Hutt. For later season fishing there is a healthy population of resident fish in most areas of deep water, though high water temperatures and nuisance algal growth, inhibit fishing. The lower reaches are distinctively stained from the large Te Pango swamp, making spotting fish difficult. South of the Wallaceville Hill Road, the river is clear but fish are not as plentiful as in the stained reaches downstream. Trout rise freely during the evening and can be taken on most general fly patterns in size 12 or 14.
Whakatiki River
The Whakatiki, across the Hutt River from Upper Hutt, is a quality mountain stream fishery. Access is either by crossing the Hutt River at the confluence off SH2 giving reasonable fishing for about 1km before entering a tight gorge or via Moonshine and Bull Run Roads. A locked gate prevents vehicle access directly to the Whakatiki but it is only a walk of several hundred metres along the Wainui Stream to reach the mainstem. While carrying only moderate numbers of trout, the impressive surroundings, deep clear pools and bubbling runs bordered by steep bush covered slopes amply reward the adventurous angler who is prepared to walk a bit for their fishing. Relatively inaccessible, the Whakatiki is really day-trip type fishing. Move quickly, fishing to visible fish rather than carefully covering all of the water. Spin and bait fishing are impractical; fly-fishing is easily the most suited method.
Wellington’s Small Streams
Small streams abound in the rugged Wellington landscape. Waters such as the Makara (access is either through Karori to the middle reaches at Makara or Ohariu to the lower reaches). Korokoro (off SH2 opposite Petone), and Pauatahanui (access off SH2 over Haywards Hill or via Paremata to Pauatahanui) provide interesting fishing attracting a small number of anglers. Don’t expect large fish and numbers can vary from year to year. Early season is better as the warmer conditions of summer tend to make fish sluggish and angling difficult. A small nymph, dry or even a worm drifted through the small pools will usually bring an enthusiastic take if conditions are right.
Whitby Lake
Whitby Lake is just off SH1 at Paremata through to the suburb of Whitby. It is small and contains a healthy population of perch and tench. Coarse fishing is an art of its own. It is not a matter of adapting your spinning gear, putting on a weight and dropping it in the water. Learn how it is done properly by contacting the very helpful guys at the Hutt Valley Coarse Fishing Club.
WAIRARAPA DISTRICT
The rarity this province offers is river trolling; popular in the lower reaches of the Ruamahanga River. Henley Lake is the best small lake fishery in the region for children. For all its quality, fishing pressure is generally light and you are unlikely to see another angler during a day’s fishing.
Ruamahanga River
The Ruamahanga River rises in the Tararua Range and drains southward over 120kms past Masterton to enter the sea at Lake Ferry. Access to the river is quite good. The upper Ruamahanga within the Tararua Forest Park has walking access either at Mt Bruce where SH2 crosses the Ruamahanga or via the headwaters of the Mangatainoka River at Putara. The river here is classic wilderness fishing with a comparatively small number of large fish in gin clear water. Best fished mid summer when wading conditions are comfortable and trout are actively feeding. Downstream of the Tararua Forest Park fishing is patchy until close to Masterton. From Masterton to Martinborough accesses are from a number of road ends or bridge crossings all leading off SH2 down to Martinborough. Downstream of Martinborough access can be gained from either side of the river off either Kahutara Road or the Martinborough Lake Ferry Road. The river is bigger, has numerous large pools with high numbers of fish. Spinning and bait fishing are best early and late in the season. Winter fishing is good. Fly-fishing is favoured during summer as temperatures rise and hatches of natural fly become prolific. Backwaters, favoured by cruising trout, are a test for anglers attempting to intercept these fish with small nymph patterns. Further downstream below the Tuhitarata Bridge, trolling is popular especially in the autumn when sea run brown trout move into the river. Salmon are also occasionally caught in this area. Some of the best perch fishing in our region is found here with fish of up to 2kg caught. Although primarily a brown trout fishery, increasing numbers of both perch and rainbow trout are being taken by anglers. Bait fishing comes into its own here.
Kopuaranga River
This small river, with its origins in the hill country to the north of Masterton, is the only one of its kind in the Wairarapa. Access is across the Ruamahanga River off SH2 about 10km north of Masterton. There is no public access along this river – landowner permission is required. A small meandering stream frequently overhung by willows, the Kopuaranga, a fly fishing only stream, holds good numbers of fish and is a favourite of fly fishers. A good hatch of fly can be expected on most warm evenings. Early season anglers do well with a nymph but as summer heightens the brown beetle, caddis and then the willow grub increasingly dominate the fish’s feeding. A careful approach and presentation is required.
Waipoua River
The Waipoua River originates in the eastern foothills of the Tararua Range and flows southward to join the Ruamahanga River at Masterton. The river parallels SH2 and access is possible off a number of roads off Paierau Road or SH2. An important spawning tributary of the Ruamahanga, this river holds a limited population of resident fish year round. However the best fishing is usually early season before most of the post spawning fish have moved back into the Ruamahanga. Upstream of Masterton this small, fast flowing river is best fished with nymphs such as hare and copper.
Tauweru River
The Taurewu River has an extensive catchment to the east of Masterton and joins the Ruamahanga at Gladstone. Access to the lower reaches is off Gladstone Rd, or Matinborough/Masterton Rd or Te Kopi Rd. To the middle reaches access is from the Masterton/Stronvar Rd or Castlepoint Rd. The river is slow flowing and willow lined and is best suited to anglers who like to stalk cruising fish. There is excellent fishing in the lower 3km of this river it and generally fishes best when the willow grub is prevalent during the summer months.
Waiohine River
This large tributary of the Ruamahunga River flows from the eastern side of the Tararua Range and can provide excellent wilderness fishing in the upper reaches for the fit angler. Accesses to the middle and lower reaches are off a number of roads that parallel the river upstream or downstream of SH2. Fishing is fair to good in these reaches depending on the frequency and severity of flood flows. Fly-fishing is the favoured method, but spinning and bait fishing are common and successful methods. Access to the Tararua Forest Park is by the Waiohine Gorge Rd to Walls Whare and walking from there. Alternatively a climb up and over Mt Holdsworth from the Mt Holdsworth Rd will get a very fit angler into the mid Waiohine Hut (please check trip time and weather before attempting this tramp). The fishing within the Forest Park is a very enjoyable experience in lovely surroundings. Upstream of Totara Flats it is recommended only for the very fit angler.
Waingawa River
This medium sized tributary of the Ruamahunga River flows from the eastern side of the Tararua Range. It can provide excellent wilderness fishing in the upper reaches for the fit angler where the river is managed as a trophy fishery although fish are not numerous. Access is off Upper Plain Road to Upper Waingawa Road and then walking from the road end. It is very scenic within the Tararua Forest Park. Downstream of the park much of the river is unstable and fish scarce. Summer offers the best fishing when wading is easier because of lower river levels and warmer temperatures. Fish a large weighted nymph to sighted fish or try a large deer hair dry fly if cicadas are abundant. Fly-fishing is the best method.
Tauherenikau River
This medium sized river flows from the eastern side of the Tararua Range and flows into Lake Wairarapa just north of Featherston. Access to the Forest Park is either from Underhill Rd and Bucks Rd (from Featherston or Greytown), or from the Upper Hutt side of the Rimutaka Range at Kaitoke, and walking 3hrs from the carpark off Marchant Rd. The upper reaches in the park provide good wilderness angling. Outside of this area the river is unstable and subject to low summer flows. The lower reaches,’ where the Tauherenikau enters Lake Wairarapa, are a popular fishing spot with brown trout or perch taken on spinners or worms.
Henley Lake
A smallish, man-made lake, near the centre of Masterton, Henley Lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout. Perch abound as well and the lake provides an ideal area for junior anglers to fish safely and for families to picnic while fishing together.
Kourarau Dam
The Kourarau dam is a water supply lake that has been a popular fishing location for many years. Access is at Gladstone immediately south of Masterton off the Masterton/Martinborough Road then off Tupurupuru Te Wharau Road. A great location for a family outing, the dam holds impressive sized rainbow trout and perch. It is managed as a “trophy” rainbow lake fishery – the only one of its type in the Wellington region. Spin or bait fishing is best for the perch (though summer weed growth will frustrate anglers using spinning gear), and fly-fishing is best for the large rainbows.
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