At Wairau Diversion, you're in for a treat as you target kahawai and seasonal salmon. For kahawai, fish from September to May, using silver-based lures and light rods for the best success. Focus on outgoing tides and look for schools actively feeding. Salmon are most abundant in February and March, especially during dawn and dusk. Utilize heavier rods with reflective lures to attract them. Make sure to respect local fishing regulations and practice good etiquette. If you want to learn more about the best techniques and tips for these species, there's plenty more to explore!
Major Highlights
- Target kahawai from September to May, with January and February being the most productive months for fishing.
- Use light rods (6'6" to 12') with fast-moving silver lures or flies for effective kahawai fishing.
- Salmon fishing peaks in February and March; fish during dawn and dusk for best results.
- Recommended gear for salmon includes a 9' to 10' rod with 22gm Zed spinners for optimal sensitivity.
- Check local fishing regulations for seasonal restrictions and authorized methods like fly or spin fishing.
Fishing Locations and Access
When you're planning your fishing trip to the Wairau Diversion and River Mouth, you'll find several accessible locations that cater to various preferences.
The Wairau Bar offers vehicle access to the northern side of the river mouth, complete with a boat ramp. If you prefer a more scenic route, head to the Wairau Diversion Bridge, where you can drive on the north side and walk both upstream and downstream. The south side provides vehicle access during whitebait season.
Additionally, Bothams Bend features access from Thomas's Road, allowing you to park easily. You might also consider Baldicks Bend for foot access along the river by the vineyard, but remember to observe fishing etiquette during the harvest season.
For comprehensive planning, use access maps to navigate the various points along the river. The Ferry Bridge North Bank and the Stop Bank Road South Bank offer excellent fishing spots with convenient parking.
Lastly, if you're after a more adventurous experience, consider the tributaries like the Branch River, where 4WD access awaits, but check for seasonal restrictions. Enjoy your time and respect the local regulations!
Kahawai Fishing Tips
How can you maximize your chances of catching kahawai while fishing at the Wairau Diversion? Start by understanding kahawai behavior; they often feed in schools and respond well to fast-moving lures. Use silver-based lures or flies retrieved quickly just beneath the surface. Small metal lures like the cobra or Tasmanian devil can be particularly effective.
When casting, consider using a half-ounce ball sinker above a swivel for added weight to help your lure reach the right depth.
For tackle, light rods around 7 feet paired with spinning reels that hold 200 meters of 4-8kg line are ideal. Make sure your hooks are sharp, as kahawai can often throw lightly hooked lures.
Employ fishing etiquette by respecting other anglers and ensuring you don't crowd their spaces.
Don't forget to enhance your chances with berley trails using pilchard pieces or skipjack frames to attract kahawai. When retrieving, cast upwind or to the side of any visible work-ups and reel in quickly.
Following these tips won't only increase your success but also ensure a respectful and enjoyable fishing experience for everyone at the Wairau Diversion.
Salmon Fishing Tips
When you're out salmon fishing, timing is everything, so aim for sunrise, sunset, or overcast days for the best chance of a catch.
Make sure you've got the right gear, like a light rod and fluorocarbon trace, to enhance your sensitivity and control.
Pair your equipment with effective techniques, like drift fishing or adjusting your lure's pace to match the current, to maximize your success.
Best Fishing Times
The best fishing times for salmon are often a blend of natural rhythms and environmental cues that can significantly increase your chances of a successful catch.
Early mornings, particularly between 8 am and 10 am, are prime for peak fishing, as salmon are more likely to strike lures during these hours. Sunrise and sunset also provide optimal conditions, so plan your trips accordingly.
Weather plays a crucial role in salmon fishing. Overcast days can enhance your success, as cloudy conditions often lead to more active fish. After a fresh, when rivers clear, you'll find the fishing can be good throughout the day.
Cooler temperatures, especially with a southerly wind, can yield better results.
Monthly patterns are important too; March is typically the peak month for salmon runs in rivers like the Wairau.
While the main salmon run occurs from February to March, don't overlook the deeper pools and rivermouths, which can be productive spots.
Understanding these elements will help you time your outings for maximum success.
Gear and Techniques
Successful salmon fishing doesn't just depend on timing but also on having the right gear and techniques in your arsenal.
Start with a heavy trout spinning rod or a 7.5-foot, 2-4kg graphite 'slowjig' rod for sensitivity. Pair it with a baitcast or overhead reel based on your preference. Use a PE-2 line (20lb polyethene braid) to detect delicate takes and attach a 2-meter fluorocarbon trace using an FG knot.
For lure selection, 22gm Zed spinners work wonders, while smaller 16gm zeds are great for clear water. Don't forget to modify your lures; adding reflective tape in colors like fluoro-green can enhance visibility.
Choose lure colors based on conditions—white on cloudy days, silver in sunlight, and brighter shades for murky waters.
When fishing, focus on river mouths and defined currents, especially around tides. Use sensitive rods to detect light strikes and keep your line taut for effective bait presentations.
Gear up with decent boots, polarized sunglasses, and a multitool for added convenience. With the right setup and techniques, you'll increase your chances of landing that catch!
Seasonal Fishing Opportunities
Wairau River offers exciting seasonal fishing opportunities, especially for kahawai and salmon. You'll find that seasonal patterns play a significant role in your fishing success.
Kahawai schools peak between September and May, with January and February being the most productive months. Focus your efforts during the outgoing tide, when baitfish congregate, drawing in hungry kahawai. Keep an eye on the birds—terns diving into the water are great indicators of where to cast.
For salmon, the main run occurs in February and March. Plan your fishing trips around dawn, dusk, or cloudy days for the best chances. Use zed spinners in sizes 12-22 grams, opting for colors like silver, gold, copper, or white. Salmon prefer the deeper pools with structures, so target those spots for better results.
Stay aware of fishing trends throughout the season, as conditions can change. Multiple access points along the lower Wairau River make it easy to find a good spot.
Just remember to check the regulations, especially regarding seasonal restrictions. Embrace these seasonal fishing opportunities, and you're sure to enjoy a rewarding experience on the river!
River and Water Conditions
Understanding river and water conditions is crucial for optimizing your fishing experience at the Wairau River. The river temperature can significantly impact your success. Generally, river temperatures in New Zealand decrease from north to south, and during the summer of 2010, the Wairau River was notably cooler than usual. You can check real-time water temperature data through the LAWA website to plan your trips better.
Water clarity is another key factor. In early 2010, rivers in the South Island, including the Wairau, were clearer than normal, mainly due to lower river flows. Clear water conditions are essential for targeting kahawai, as they thrive in such environments.
Keep in mind that water clarity can fluctuate based on recent rainfall and river flows.
When planning your fishing trip, consider that river mouths offer prime fishing opportunities during outgoing tides for kahawai, while salmon fishing is best during the incoming tide or the first hour of the ebbing tide.
Staying informed about river flows and water conditions will enhance your chances of a successful outing at the Wairau River.
Safety and Regulations
When fishing at the Wairau River, it's essential to follow safety regulations and obtain the proper licenses. You'll need a sports fish license from Fish and Game NZ to fish for salmon and other sports fish.
Child license holders can bait fish in certain areas, but make sure to adhere to regional regulations. Fishing without a license can lead to serious consequences, including criminal convictions.
To ensure fishing safety, use only an assembled rod and running line with authorized methods like fly or spin. Remember, you can only use one rod at a time, and restrictions apply to nets and gaffs.
It's important to note that felt-soled waders aren't allowed while fishing.
Be mindful of seasonal and daily limits as well. For instance, fishing for trout may only be permitted during specific open seasons, and bag limits mustn't be exceeded.
Additionally, some areas are designated as closed waters where fishing is off-limits. Always stay informed about local regulations to ensure regulatory compliance and enjoy a safe fishing experience at the Wairau River.
Essential Fishing Gear
When you head out for fishing at the Wairau, having the right gear is crucial for success.
You'll want to choose the best rod types and bait options to attract fish effectively, along with essential tackle accessories to enhance your experience.
Let's explore what you'll need to gear up properly for an enjoyable day on the water.
Recommended Rod Types
Choosing the right fishing rod is crucial for a successful day on the water, especially when targeting species like kahawai and salmon in the Wairau Diversion. You'll want to focus on rod specifications that best suit your needs. For kahawai, a rod length of 6'6" to 12' is ideal, while for salmon, 9 to 10 feet gives you better control and casting distance.
When it comes to rod materials, consider high-modulus carbon rods for maximum strength and reduced weight. Composite graphite rods also work well, offering versatility. Look for features like silicon nitride guides for durability and a Fuji® reel seat for sensitivity.
| Rod Material | Recommended Length | Action Type |
|---|---|---|
| High-modulus Carbon | 6'6" to 12' | Fast or Moderate-Fast |
| Composite Graphite | 9' to 10' | Fast |
| Fortified Resin System | Varies | Adjustable |
Investing in the right rod will enhance your fishing experience and improve your chances of landing that trophy catch.
Ideal Bait Choices
Selecting the right bait can significantly impact your success on the Wairau Diversion. For targeting kahawai, consider using small silver lures that imitate smelt or īnanga, especially in tidal areas.
These lures, particularly when covered with prismatic tape in green and yellow, can enhance your bait presentation and draw in those aggressive strikes. A red tag on your lure can also improve hook-ups, and opting for single hooks can provide more security when you feel that tug on the line.
When going after salmon, cured salmon eggs or sand shrimp are effective choices. You'll find that smelt, often available from whitebaiters as bycatch, can work wonders for both kahawai and salmon.
Keep in mind that while natural baits like worms and crustaceans are permitted, they're less common for these species.
Timing your fishing trip is essential too. For kahawai, the outgoing tide is optimal, while salmon fishing is best during sunrise, sunset, or cloudy days.
Pay attention to your bait preferences and presentation, as it can make all the difference in attracting your target fish.
Essential Tackle Accessories
Essential tackle accessories play a crucial role in your fishing success on the Wairau Diversion. Proper tackle maintenance ensures your gear operates smoothly, while smart lure selection can make all the difference when targeting kahawai and seasonal salmon.
| Tackle Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Rods | Medium to light spinning rods (7' for kahawai). |
| Reels | Spinning reels with 200m capacity (2-4kg line). |
| Lures | Small metal lures (7-40g) and soft-plastic tackle. |
| Hooks | Chemically-sharpened hooks with small barbs. |
Don't forget to pack a tackle box filled with various hooks, sinkers, and bobbers. Using berley trails with pilchard pieces can attract kahawai effectively. A set of high-quality drag reels is crucial for handling lighter lines, allowing for better control when you hook a fish. Remember to keep your hooks sharp and replace standard hooks with higher-quality options for improved results. With the right accessories, you're well on your way to a successful day of fishing.
Environmental Considerations
When examining the environmental considerations surrounding the Wairau Diversion, it's clear that the alteration of water flows significantly impacts local ecosystems. Reduced water flows diminish habitats for stream macroinvertebrates, leading to declines in their health. This decline disrupts the food web, affecting fish and bird populations that rely on these organisms.
You'll notice that increased water temperatures and sediment accumulation further degrade the remaining habitats. Additionally, flow fluctuations due to hydro-peaking can cause fish stranding, which has adverse ecological consequences. Maintaining minimum flow requirements is crucial for preserving water quality and habitat. Without sufficient flow variability, essential processes like sediment flushing and channel formation are compromised.
In the estuary, the Wairau Diversion reduces flood flows, resulting in the loss of eelgrass beds and a dominance of a single macroalgae species, indicating declining estuarine biodiversity. Large areas of unvegetated habitats highlight the ecological degradation occurring in this area.
As you engage in fishing, remember that these environmental considerations are vital for sustaining the health of the ecosystem and the fish populations you seek. Protecting macroinvertebrate health and estuarine biodiversity is essential for the future of Wairau fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Bait Options for Kahawai Fishing?
For kahawai fishing, the best bait includes silver-based lures, cut baits, and live baits. Experiment with small pillies or strip baits, and consider using flies for a more dynamic presentation. Keep your retrieval fast!
Can I Fish in Wairau Diversion During High Tide?
You can fish during high tide, as it enhances your chances of catching kahawai. Use effective fishing techniques like fast retrieves near the surface to maximize your success during this optimal tide effect.
Are There Any Local Fishing Guides Available?
You won't find specific local fishing guides for the Wairau Diversion, but you can seek guided tours from Marlborough services. Local expertise often comes from fellow anglers, offering valuable insights for your fishing adventures.
What Types of Fish Are Commonly Caught at Wairau Diversion?
Fishing at Wairau feels like a treasure hunt, where you'll commonly catch species like kahawai and salmon. Mastering specific fishing techniques enhances your chances, as you explore this vibrant aquatic ecosystem filled with diverse fish.
Is There a Limit on the Number of Fish I Can Keep?
Yes, there are fish bag limits to ensure sustainable fishing practices. You can keep up to two trout each day, with one trout exceeding 500mm. Other species, like salmon and kahawai, have no specific limits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you're casting for kahawai or chasing seasonal salmon, the Wairau Diversion offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Remember to check the river conditions and gear up with the essentials. For instance, a friend of mine caught a 10-pound salmon last season, making memories that'll last a lifetime. So grab your rod, respect the environment, and enjoy the thrill of the catch—there's always something waiting to bite!
