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Leslie River

 

The Leslie River is a beautiful small wilderness river that offers the chance for anglers to fish for large brown trout in a pristine backcountry environment.
Fish type Brown trout
Situation The Leslie River is the most accessible of the Karamea River tributaries. It flows south from Mt Arthur to enter the Karamea at the area known as Big Bend.
Maps

Access map
Check conditions View the MetService weather forecast
Description The Leslie flows through bush over a shingle and stone bed through bush lined valleys. There are many open areas however offering easy fishing waters.  The waters are generally clear and trout can easily be spotted in the long glides, riffles and pools. A highly recommended river for the fishing purist .
Fish numbers and size Fish stocks are good and the fish are mostly in the 3-4lb range with some going considerably higher.
Ease of fishing The Leslie is easily waded and fished.
Access Several well marked and maintained tracks lead into this area. Those wishing to tramp in can expect a 1 - 2 day walk. Otherwise you will require a helicopter. See the Leslie River access map.
Recommended lures

Nymphs: Small nymphs such as Hare and Copper, Pheasant Tail 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 Adams patterns work well at all times of the day. Fish bushier flies such over the faster water.

Wet flies: Small wets  and emerger Sedge patterns work well when fished sub-surface.

Spinners: Small bladed spinners (Mepps or Veltic).
Regulations
Applicable to Leslie River
Region West Coast
Season  1 Oct-30 Apr
Methods Artificial fly, spinner, bait
Bag limit Rainbow trout:  2
Brown trout :  2
Size limit (cm) No limit

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