Access map

View the river flow.

Its remoteness makes the Rainbow an ideal river for those anglers seeking the solitude and challenge of fishing for large trout (some trophy size) in a wilderness setting. It affords many kilometres of challenging fishing in a pristine environment surrounded by forest and high mountains. This river is boisterous and so should only be attempted by reasonably fit and competent anglers.

The section which make up the true headwaters of the Wairau, is difficult terrain to fish. The river runs over a bed of gravel and stones and often between outcrops of solid rock that can house large but impossible to reach trout. It is a challenging river and best fished by experienced anglers.

Access is difficult and anglers either need to be prepared to walk or to seek permission to drive beyond Six-Mile Creek through Rainbow Station. Contact the Rainbow Station owners, Alison and Philip Graham ph (03) 521 1838. From December to February, the road is open to the public with a manned gate above Six Mile Creek and a charge of $20 per vehicle. The road is closed during the first week of January for cattle mustering.

Permission to drive the private Hanmer Springs Hydro road can be obtained from the Department of Conservation at St Arnauds (phone 03 521 1806) or DOC at Hanmer (on 03 4157128). Do not attempt this road unless you have a four wheel drive vehicle.

See the Upper Wairau and Rainbow River access maps.

Nymphs:
Large weighted nymphs are the order in the deep pools and very fast water. in other sections use smaller flies and adjust weight accordingly. Any Pheasant Tail variant or very hairy Hare and Copper will work well if it can be got to the level of the fish.

Dry flies:
Bushy palmered flies work well in the fast riffles and rapids. Fish will rise in the pools and quieter water and flies such as Adams, March Brown or Coachman can work well.

Wet flies:
Small wets such as Greenwell's Glory, Purple and Grouse and Twilight Beauty.

Spinners: Toby patterns or bladed patterns such as Mepps or Veltic work well especially when fished deep into pools or upstream into the faster waters.