Fishing Reports

 

The first of the marlin have finally arrived. Although nothing has been landed for the BOISC, several boats have dropped fish in the few days since Xmas, and two have been caught out of Tutukaka. Although we have had no hookups ourselves as yet, we have seen a couple of hammerheads, which is always a good sign for the proximity of marlin. All the tunas are a 'bit slow off the rank', with no yellowfin as yet, and the skipjack schools yet to arrive. Once the skippies arrive, the concentration of big fish should be close behind. Snapper fishing has been very good off Whale Rock, especially with lightly weighted pilchards floating down in the deeper water on the 40M to 50M mark. Kingies continue to give good results around Bird Rock, and 71 M Reef, and with barracoutta finally beating a retreat, Rocky Point and waiwiri Rock should also be producing good results. Check your tackle and traces while livebaiting these areas from now on, because sooner or later you will hook up on a marlin!!! A flying gaff should be standard equipment, but don't fret if you haven't got one yet, as most marlin will give up the struggle quickly if you can grab the bill and pull the head out of the water. BUT MAKE SURE YOU'RE WEARING GLOVES!!! If releasing the marlin, and it's a bit sluggish, hold the bill, push the head under the water and slowly start forward. Once the fish is cruising upright, put the boat in neutral and let go. As always, drop me an email at MAJOR.TOM@xtra.co.nz if you need any info.

 

From Major Tom II

Report type: Saltwater

Report date: 30 December 02