HomeNelson – MarlboroughNelson Marlborough: Where to fishGoulter River

Goulter River

 

The Goulter is a beautiful scenic bush lined river that provides anglers who are prepared to walk to fish in clear water for large trout in scenic surroundings. It produces big fish and is a popular place for anglers wishing to test their skills against very cunning opponents.

Fish type Brown trout
Setting The Goulter is a beautiful river that  runs through bush for much of its length. It drains Lake Chalice (which only contains small native trout of no interest to anglers) and joins the Wairau in its middle reaches.
Maps

Access map

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Description

The Goulter is probably the best of the Wairau tributaries in fishing terms as it maintains good flows throughout the year. The water is generally clear even when the Wairau is discoloured and so offers good opportunities to anglers for a greater proportion of the season. The river is a mixture of enticing runs, riffles and pools.

While the open aspect of much of this river make it a delight to cast in, it is a challenging river to fish for the wary fish that inhabit its waters. Any angler prepared to walk will be able to spot fish in the clear water however and the scenery alone is a just cause to spend time on this river. It is wadeable.

Fish numbers and size Fish numbers are good though as the river receives heavy angling pressure so catch and release is recommended. Fish average around 3-4lb.
Access

The Goulter is around 40 minutes drive from Blenheim and 2 hours from Nelson. A walking track beginning at Patriarch Station allows anglers to follow the river's length. Ask permission at Patriarch Station prior to crossing their land. See the access map

Recommended lures

Nymphs:
Small nymphs (sizes 14 or smaller) such as Pheasant Tail patterns, Halfbacks and Hare and Coppers are recommended.

Dry flies:
Green Beetles and humpy patterns work well from early summer during the day and Twilight Beauty and Greenwell's Glory being good evening flies.

Wet flies:
Small wets such as March Brown and Greenwell's Glory work well especially during the evening.

Spinners: Bladed spinners such as Mepps or Veltic in duller colours are the best for spin fishing.

Regulations
Applicable to The Goulter
Region Nelson Marlborough
Season 1 Oct to 30 April
Methods Artificial fly, spinner
Bag limit 2 (with only one fish exceeding 500mm in length)
Size limit (cm) No minimum size

Other fishing waters of the region



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