Many regard the fishing in the Nelson region as being among the best in the country. Large pristine rivers holding large populations of trout, many of which reach trophy sizes, and the low number of anglers make the Nelson-Marlborough region an area that provides endless opportunities for the angler. While the majority of the fishing is for wily brown trout, some areas such as the Pelorus and the Cobb hold good populations of rainbow trout as well. Many of the estuaries also provide good fishing for the sea run brown trout during late spring and early summer months.
Fishing waters open all year
A number of rivers and most lakes are open all year. These include: the Cobb Resevoir; Motueka River downstream from from the Peninsula Road Bridge at Ngatimoti; Pelorus River downstream from the confluence with the Rai River (but not including the tributaries); and Wairau River downstream from the Wash Bridge.
Most popular rivers in Nelson-Marlborough
The most popular trout fishing rivers in the region are the Motueka River which is a large river with a very high population of brown trout, Pelorus River, Wairau River and Buller River.
Low angling pressure in Golden Bay
Enjoy fishing like it used to be, sharing with few other anglers, on the rivers in the Golden Bay area. These rivers offer some excellent fishing in scenic surroundings: Anatoki; Aorere; Takaka; Cobb River (and the Cobb Reservoir); Waikoropupu River; and Waingaro River.
Lake fishing
The major lakes in the region are Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa.