Rakaia High Country Lakes Fishing

Lake Coleridge

Landlocked Chinook salmon which are the most common catch in this large and popular lake. The best access points to the lake are at the Intake (off Mr Algidus Road), Ryton Bay (turn left off Harper Road just before the Ryton River bridge) and Harper Bay (continue up Harper Road after crossing the Ryton Bridge, through the Harper village and turn left after crossing the Harper River).

For further information, see Lake Coleridge

Lake Evelyn

This lake is most easily accessed by turning into the Lake Ida / Mt Olympus Road, parking a few hundred metres down the road and walking over to the lake. A DOC track (new in 2008) starting at the head of Lake Evelyn take anglers to Lakes Ida and Monck.

Lake Selfe

The shingle fan on the north-western side of the lake is a popular spot for spin anglers.

Lake Henrietta

This lake does not receive a lot of angling pressure as it is mostly surrounded by swamp. However, careful anglers can be rewarded with good fishing.

Lakes Ida and Little Ida

Turn right (signposted) off Harper Road onto the Lake Ida / Mt Olympus Road.

Info from Fish & Game 2008: Lake Ida is walking access only with a DOC track (new in 2008) starting at the head of Lake Evelyn.

Info from Fish & Game 2007: This is a private road but is generally open to the public. Travel down this road before turning left (signposted) toward Lake Ida.

Little Lake Ida can be reached by walking to the top of the main lake and over a small shingle fan.

Lake Catherine (Monck)

Lake Catherine is a popular lake for fly fishing for a good population of fish that can be spotted cruising the waters edge.

For further information, see Lake Catherine.

Lake Lilian

Lake Lilian is accessed through Glenthorne Station. Permission must be obtained from the station to use the road which runs up the Harper Valley from the top of Lake Coleridge. Once permission has been obtained, drive up the southern side of the river until reaching the Lilian Stream. Walk up the Lilian Stream for fifteen minutes to reach the lake.

Lake Georgina

A nice little lake which anglers can walk right around during a fishing session.

Lake Lyndon

This lake can be accessed from Lake Coleridge via the Lyndon (or dry weather). Road or directly off SH73 just over Porters Pass. Good populations of rainbow trout are present.

Lake Rubicon

This is a seldom visited lake which lies in the foothills to the east of Porters Pass. Access is through Brooksdale Station, which can be accessed on SH73, a short distance east of Porters Pass. Permission should be obtained from the station in advance of a visit. The lake is a one hour walk from the homestead.