The NZ Sport Fishing Council (NZSFC) Youth Nationals were contested over the recent school holiday in April. The event encourages young people to spend time outdoors, socialise, and connect with nature. As we know, fishing requires a great deal of patience, strategy, and technical know-how. Competitors learn how to understand the weather conditions, choose the right bait, tie knots, and cast or drop a line accurately. These life skills and problem-solving and decision-making abilities can be applied not just to fishing but also to other areas of life.  

The NZSFC Youth Nationals fishing competition has gained popularity since its inauguration last year. NZSFC’s Communications and Operations Lead, Mike Plant, followed a few of the competing anglers at this year’s Youth Nationals.

Summer Korkie from Kawhia Club tagging a striped marlin.

One of those keen young anglers is Hayden Speed who, due to his age, enjoyed his last opportunity to fish in the competition this year.  

“The Youth Nationals has been a blast; it has an awesome structure that caters to everyone,” says Hayden. 

“Whether it’s fishing light line for points, targeting the trophies in the all-tackle section, going out and measuring fish for the longest category, tagging fish, or a combination of all the above. There’s something for everyone, which gives everyone?a target to work towards.?I’ve been a member of the Mount Maunganui Sportfishing Club since I could barely walk. I’ve joined the committee and am enjoying helping with life around the club. I love it!”

Congratulations to all those young anglers who participated and caught some very impressive fish.  

The NZSFC Youth Nationals returns next year from Saturday, April 13 to Saturday, April 27.