Fish type |
A good stock of rainbow trout averaging around 1 to 2 kg are present in the Lake. Some fish over 3.5 kg are also present |
Situation |
Lake Daniells lies to the east of Springs Junction and its feeder streams drain the easterly side of the Spenser Mountain Range. Its outlet feeds into the Alfred River which in turn feeds into the Maruia River. |
Maps |
Access map
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Check conditions |
View MetService weather forecast |
Description |
Lake Daniells is a small attractive lake surrounded by bush-land. The western shoreline is generally very steep and bounded by overhanging bush making access almost impossible. The eastern shoreline is usually wadeable though during times of wet weather when the lake is higher than normal, it becomes quite difficult.
Most fishing is done by casting out to cruising fish along the drop-off. The best times to fish this lake are after periods of dry weather when the water is clear and the fish can be easily spotted cruising the lakes each. A highly scenic fishery that is well worth visiting. |
Access |
There is an access sign for the track leading to Lake Daniells on State Highway seven approximately 5 km south of Springs Junction. A well-defined track that requires approximately 2 hours of easy walking leads to the southern end of the lake. There is a hut that sleeps 40 at the lake as well. Tickets to stay at the hut are available from DoC. |
Methods |
All methods are permissible on the lake and fish or readily take nymphs, streamers and spinners throughout the season and there being excellent dry fly fishing during the warmer months. |
Recommended tackle |
fly rods capable of casting weight 5 to 7 lines with reasonably long leaders (12 foot plus) are best. Spin rods that can cast 5 to 10 g lures. And make sure you have Polaroid glasses and plenty of powerful insect repellent!! |
Recommended lures |
Dry flies: Humpies, Coch-y-Bondhu, Blowfly, Adams, and Blue Dun
Nymphs: Emerger patterns, Green Caddis.
Wet flies: Bully patterns such as Mrs Simpson, Kilwell, Hamills Killer and Woolly Buggers.
Spinners: Small dark patterns such as green rapalas, green and black veltics and zebra toby patterns.
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Tributaries |
The nearby Alfred River is always worth exploring. |
Regulations |
Applicable to |
Lake Daniells |
Region |
Nelson/Marlborough |
Season |
1 Oct-30 Apr |
Methods |
Artificial fly and spinner. Down riggers are permitted. |
Bag limit |
2 |
Size limit (cm) |
No size limit |