Makuri attracts anglers from far and wide as it is one of New Zealand's top small river fisheries. Rising in the limestone country of the Puketoi Ranges, the Makuri is the closest thing to a chalkstream we have in this region. A sustained flow of high quality cold water ensures an abundant trout population. Most of the fishing pressure occurs in the Makuri Township Domain where the river is easily accessible. Below the township the river flows through a rugged gorge of huge boulders and fast tumbling waters.
Access is difficult.
From the gorge to the Tiraumea confluence the river flows slowly in a deeply incised channel. With the fish often difficult, a long leader, light line and delicate presentation, is the key. Both nymph and dry fly are popular with some of the larger sizes worth a try. A good caddis hatch occurs on warm evenings but the fish response is unpredictable. Morning is regarded asthe best time to be on the Makuri.