Access map

The Waimarino river flow is normally 2-3 cubic metres per second.

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There is excellent fishing at the mouth throughout the year, but best on a dark night as it is very shallow.

Description:

Although the lower reaches tend to be overgrown and there is limited holding water, downstream lure (wetfly) fishing can work well after rain. Fish tend to congregate around the mouth before a fresh fall of rain as they prepare to run up the river to spawn. However, once entering the river they tend to move through the lower reaches quickly. The track alongside the river is very overgrown and only suitable for 4WD vehicles (expect a few scratches). In places it is possible to get down into the river and fish can often be seen in the slowing moving water. They are very wary however and will spook easily.

Access:

Access is either from the SH1 bridge where a  shingle vehicle track which runs down the true left (southern) bank some distance from the water. While it is possible to drive
to the mouth of the river, this really should only be done using a four-wheel-drive. Otherwise park your car in the car park and walk the last 500 m. Then walk north along the lake shore to the mouth.

Alternatively cross the bridge and walk down the true right bank.

See the local access map (coming soon).

Description:

In this stretch of water, between SH1 and Korohe Pa, the pools and runs usually contain trout that can be sighted and caught with nymphs in the winter months when the fish move in from the lake. Or try casting a lure (wetfly) downstream under the banks. The best times are early in the day and after a fresh fall of rain when there is more volume of water in the river.

Access:

SH1 crosses the Waimarino and a vehicle access track leads up the true left bank for a short way. A walking track follows the true left-hand bank of river for about 4 km.

Access to the top section is from Korohe Road, which leads to Korohe Crossing. (Korohe Road turns off SH1 approximately 500 m south of the bridge.)

See the local access map (coming soon).

Description:

The upper reaches contain mostly trout recovering from spawning in delightful pools and runs. But you need to be prepared to scramble to get to them. The river is easy to cross, casting is clear, and fish can be spotted. As these fish are trying to put on condition after spawning they will take most flies that are well presented to them.

During much of the year the water is low and very clear. This, combined with the overhanging vegetation and many snags in the river, make for very difficult fishing. Good fish, however, can be spotted in the clear water, and the angler is unlikely to be bothered by crowds. The best fishing is from late autumn and to spring.

Access:

Either park your car on SH1 and walk a good distance (a walking track follows the true left-hand bank of river for about 4 km) or have a friend drop you off up Korohe Road at Korohe Pa. Korohe Road turns off SH1 approximately 500 m south of the bridge. See the local access map (coming soon).

For nymph fishing:

A 5 to 7 weight rod.
A floating line.
A weighted nymph with lighter nymphs tied below.
Leader 4-4.5 metres in length and 2.5-4 kg strength.
An indicator (to detect strikes)

For wetfly fishing:

A 5 to 7 weight rod.
A medium to fast sinking line.
A short tippet of 2-2.5 metres.

Nymph: Globugs (during the spawning season),  Caddis, Halfback, Hare and Copper

Wet flies/streamers: Use smaller flies such as  Red Setter and Rabbit patterns especially an Orange Rabbit. Also Parson's Glory, Mrs Simpson, and Hamill's Killer.

Dry flies: During the summer try small Parachute Adams or caddis patterns. During the early summer try beetle patterns; and cicada patterns later in summer.