Access map

Dingle Burn is a small quite boisterous water that flows down a tussock grass and beech tree lined valley. The river is divided into three main area; the lower reaches just before the river enters Lake Hawea. This section is braided and does not have the ability to hold a large resident population of fish due to it being flood prone and unstable. The fishing where the river enters the lake can be very good as cruising trout can often be spotted.

Above the lower section the river flows through a gorge which holds a reasonable number of fish in the pocket water made up of a series of deep pools punctuated by short fast runs. This section is best fished in late summer when the water flow is at its lowest and fish can be sighted in the clear water. Short accurate casts are required.

The most popular section is the upper reaches and headwaters where the river opens out allowing for good walking and casting. The river here is fast flowing and the water clear. Fish can be spotted in the runs (though may be difficult to see in the faster water). These fish are used to anglers and so great care and stealth is needed to ensure success.

While there is a track to the mouth of the river, it is over private land and is not for the faint-hearted. Anyone trying to use this track need to get permission from Dingle Burn Station and have a good 4 wheel drive vehicle. Otherwise the river mouth can be reached by boat and the upper reaches by a long walk or by helicopter.

Nymphs:
Weighted nymphs such as a Pheasant Tail or halfback patterns.

Dry flies:
Attractor patterns such as a Royal Wulff and other large bushy flies that remain visible (and buoyant) in the fast water. Also try Ants and Beetles in the summer months.

Wet flies:
Small wets and spider patterns can work well, especially in the evening at the river mouth.

Spinners: Very small bladed spinners such as a mepps.