As the
Waitangitaona travels down from the hills it flows over mostly
open tussock country. It is a fast river that bounces over
a bed of rock and gravel and provides an ideal fishing habitat.
The open aspect of the river means it is
easy to fish but the crystal clear waters and wary fish mean
that it is a challenging river to catch fish.
Access
Turn of Highway 6 at Whataroa
towards Rotokino and the Purcell and gunn side roads give access
tdo the river. Ask landowners permission before crossing private
land.
Recommended lures
Nymphs:
Any caddis
nymph, Pheasants
Tail or Hare
and Copper are favoured though they should be in a reasonable
size such as 10 to 14. Use some weight to get them down in
the faster water or pools where fish can be spotted. It will
also be necessary to use quite long leaders in the clear water.
Dry flies: Fish
respond to dry flies such as Adams,
Geenwell's
Glory, Dad's
Favourite or Twilight
Beauty throughout the day and into the evening when there
can be an excellent rise. Keep well dressed flies in the 10
to 12 size range so that they remain visible in the fast boisterous
water.
