New Zealand billfish and gamefish tagging review 2010–11

Release and recapture data for the 2010–11 season (July to June fishing year) are summarised in this report and compared with those from previous seasons. Particular recaptures that provide growth or movement information of significance or interest are described.

The number of fish tagged and released overall this season (2785) was similar to last year. The numbers of striped marlin and kingfish tagged both fell compared to the previous season, but there were big increases in blue marlin, swordfish and sharks. No yellowfin tuna were tagged in 2010–11.

According to New Zealand Sport Fishing Council club catch records, very high percentages of the total recreational catch of mako (92%) and blue sharks (91%) were tagged and released rather than landed. The average size of mako tagged in the last three seasons has been about 50 kg. This is 20 kg less than in the early 2000s.

There were 698 striped marlin reported as tagged and released inside New Zealand fisheries waters in the 2010–11 season. This was the lowest total since 2002–03. There were, however, more blue marlin caught by sport fishers with a record 76 tagged and released for the season.

The number of yellowtail kingfish tagged (1104) in 2010–11 was higher than the long-term average but down on previous seasons. This season 81% of tagged kingfish were measured on release. A total of 67 recaptures was reported in the 2010–11 fishing season.

These comprised 54 (81%) yellowtail kingfish, 7 (10%) mako sharks, 3 (4%) blue sharks, 1 blue marlin, and 2 other shark species.

One recaptured kingfish had been at liberty for over twelve years, while another was recaptured for the third time. Although most kingfish were recaptured within five nautical miles of their tagging location, one had moved 220 nautical miles between release and recapture, from the east coast of the South Island to the west coast of the lower North Island.

Two mako sharks were recaptured near Fiji. One of these had moved 1150 nautical miles in 60 days. 

For the full report please click here.

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