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Crow River

 

The Crow River is a major tributary of the Karamea River and a highly regarded backcountry wilderness river offering excellent trout fishing for adventurous anglers. It is now a designated water and so anglers must hold a Designated Waters Licence in addition to their whole season fishing licence.
Backcountry LicenceThe Crow River is designated a backcountry fishery requiring all anglers to obtain a backcountry licence.
Fish typeBrown trout
SituationThis river is located in the heart of the Kahurangi National Park.
SettingThe Crow River rises in the Arthur ranges and flows west to join the Karamea River. It flows through virgin bush country throughout its length and is a beautiful scenic river to fish.
Maps

Access map

Check conditionsView the MetService weather forecast
Fish numbers and sizeFish numbers are high though the average size is smaller than in the rest of the Karamea system. Still fish in the 2-4lb mark can be expected with some larger ones also being caught at times.
DescriptionThe Crow flows through bush over a shingle and stone bed. The waters are clear and trout can easily be spotted in the long glides' riffles and pools. A highly recommended river for the fishing purist willing to put some effort into getting there.
Ease of fishingThe Crow is easy to wade and to fish. Vegetation often comes down on both banks to the waters edge but by wading most water can be covered.
Access

The only way to access this river is by walking or by helicopter. Several well marked and maintained tracks lead into the area. Those wishing to tramp in can expect a 1 - 2 day walk. See the Crow River access map.

Recommended lures

Nymphs:
Small nymphs such as Hare and Copper, Pheasant Tails and Caddis imitations all work well in sizes 14 or smaller.

Dry flies:
Small flies such as Royal Wulff, Hardies Favourite, Dad's Favourite and March Brown all work well at all times of the day. Fish bushier flies such as Coch-y-bondhu and Humpy over the faster water.

Wet flies:
Small wets like Greenwell's Glory, March Brown and sedge emerger patterns work well when fished sub-surface. These flies are particularly effective when fishing the evening rise.

Spinners: Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic) fished upstream into the faster water or through the deep pools are best for this small river.

Regulations
Applicable toCrow River
RegionWest Coast
Season1 Oct-30 Apr
Anglers must hold a Designated Waters Licence in addition to their whole season fishing licence.
MethodsArtificial fly, spinner, bait
Bag limitTotal sports fish: 2
Size limit (cm)No limit

Other fishing waters of the region



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