Fishing in our area of late has largely been affected by bad weather – big seas have deterred saltwater fisherman, but once again, those who have managed to get out on calmer days are getting great catches. The blue cod all seem to be big, and are often caught close to shore. I have heard of nice blue cod being caught spinning off Moeraki (when people have been targeting salmon), and on bait around the harbour. Cape Saunders rock/cliff fishermen are having some great hauls, once again, when the sea is calm. Both Greenbone and Trumpeter are also being caught particularly around the coast from Waikouatiti north. Around Christmas time there were reports of Moki being caught at Karitane and in the harbour. Kahawai have also made an appearance – quite a few landed at the mouth of the Waitaki, but more notably in the harbour – which is great as they haven’t been seen around here for a few years now. A very prominent species in our harbour at the moment is the mackeral which can been seen in big schools at most times. I have seen them whilst driving to work in the mornings only a few metres from the Portobello Road. Great if you want to have a play with the fly rod! There are certainly plenty of sharks around at the moment – hopefully there will be some good examples at the weigh-in for the Tautuku Fishing Club’s Competition next weekend (27th January). Those spinning for salmon at the mouth of the harbour have caught the odd one or two (and broken rods in the process!), and I know of a decent sized Seven Gill that made a mess of a friend’s net. Salmon – well not the best of news as yet. There have certainly been a few caught, but nothing like it should be. Trolling has not been overly successful – most have been worn down by the baracuda before too long. Sprat/pilchard fishermen are catching the odd one off the wharves and shorelines (including off the Gun Emplacements and the Spit area) and lure fishing has also had it moments. With the Otago Salmon Angler’s Harbour Fishing Competition coming up on the 24th & 25th of February every one is anxious for a decent “run”. At least those preparing are catching plenty of sprat – the harbour has an abundance of baitfish in it. That’s about all at the moment, but with the competitions (and with any sort of luck – improved weather) coming up over the next few weeks there should be plenty to report back on soon. Tightlines everyone!

 

From jeremy Taylor

Report type: Saltwater

Report date: 19 January 01

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