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Routeburn River

 

The Routeburn River is a short, stony river that is a tributary of the Dart River and, as part of the tributary flows underground, only the lower reaches are good for fishing.
Fish type Brown and rainbow trout. Only catch and release and fly fishing is permitted
Situation Routeburn River joins the right bank of the Dart River and drains the Humboldt Mountains. This short, stony river is a tributary of the Dart River, and as part of the tributary flows underground, only the lower reaches are good for fishing. The river holds good sized trout which are easy to see, making it a popular place to fish.
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Description Routeburn River is a tributary of the Dart River and is situated about 20km above Lake Wakatipu. The upper reaches don't tend to hold many trout however, good fishing can be found downstream towards the confluence. The fish in this river are easily spotted and can be very large. A wonderful scenic river to fish that can receive quite heavy fishing pressure.

Catch and release regulations were introduced in the early 1990s as a protective measure to ensure that trout stocks remain good throughout the season.
Access Take the Routeburn Rd from Kinloch until you come to the carpark at Lake Sylvan. There is good fish water below the swing bridge down to the Dart confluence.
Methods Flyfishing only - catch and release only
Recommended lures

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.
Tributaries Routeburn is a tributary of the Dart River
Regulations
Applicable to Routeburn River
Region Otago regulations
Season 1 November to 31 May
Methods Flyfishing only - catch and release only
Bag limit 0
Size limit (cm) None

Other fishing waters of the region



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