The
Goulter is a beautiful scenic bush lined river that provides anglers
who are prepared to walk to fish in clear water for large trout
in scenic surroundings.
The Goulter
is a beautiful river that runs through bush for much of
its length. It drains Lake Chalice (which only contains small
native trout of no interest to anglers) and joins the Wairau
in its middle reaches.
The Goulter
is probably the best of the Wairau tributaries in fishing
terms as it maintains good flows throughout the year. The
water is generally clear even when the Wairau is discoloured
and so offers good opportunites to anglers for a greater proportion
of the year. The river is a mixture of enticing runs, riffles
and pools.
While the open aspect of much of this river
make it a delight to cast in, it is a challenging river to
fish for the wary fish that inhabit its waters. Any angler
prepared to walk will be able to spot fish in the clear water
however and the scenery alone is a just cause to spend time
on this river. It is wadeable.
Fish numbers and size
Fish numbers
are good though as the river receives heavy angling pressure
so catch and release is recommended. Fish average around 3-4lb.
Access
The Goulter
is around 40 minutes drive from Blenheim and 2 hours from
Nelson. A walking track beginning at Patriarch Station allows
anglers to follow the river's length. Ask permission at Patriarch
Station prior to crossing their land.
