Otamatea Stream Trout Fishing

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V17 Murupara

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The Otamatea Stream flows through well vegetated banks which can make casting a difficult in the number of places. It is extremely scenic and the water generally crystal clear. There is a good population of mostly rainbow trout averaging around 1 1/2 to 2 kg but with many much larger fish also present.

Due to the clear water the fish are generally easy to spot. The clear water means the fish can also spot the angler and so they are rather easily spooked. It is not a large river and any fish that are disturbed tend to flee upstream and spook other fish. A stealthy approach is needed.

Getting access to the river can be difficult in many places and anglers familiar with the river advise dropping into the river, and then as cautiously and as quietly as possible, wading upstream.

Nymphs: Small un-weighted or very lightly weighted nymphs such as a Hare and Copper, Pheasant Tail and Half Back in sizes 14 to 16.

Dry flies: Parachute Adams, Royal Wulff, beetle patterns (from mid-November through December) and cicada patterns from January through to March all work well. Also try hoppers and crane fly patterns during the warmer months.

Wet flies: In the evenings, small wet flies, especially soft hackled flies, can work very well when the drought arising to take insects just subsurface.