Waikoropupu River Trout Fishing

Access map
Access map with topography

LINZ topographic maps: (260 Map Series, 1:50,000)
N26 Takaka

The water from the main spring that feeds the Waikoropupu is a constant cold of 11.7 degrees Celsius. Flows can vary between 7-21 cumecs.

Heavy willow growth can make fishing difficult in some stretches.

There is limited public access from Pupu Valley Road which is off SH60 north of Takaka. See the Takaka River access map and list of Waikoropupu access points.

Nymphs: Heavily weighted large nymphs are required to get down to the fish. Try sizes 10 to 14 in Pheasant Tail or Hare and Copper patterns.

Dry flies: large bushy flies such as Deers Hair Sedge patterns work well in the faster water but try smaller patterns such as Twilight Beauty or a Black Gnat in the more sedate section near the confluence with the Takaka.

Wet flies: Small wets such as Greenwell's Glory or Dad's Favourite are useful especially in the evenings.

Spinners: Bladed spinners such as Veltic or Mepps work best when fished upstream and brought downstream just above the river bed.