Reel Legends Contest Postponed

Faced with several issues created by Cyclone Gabrielle, organisers of the 2023 Century Batteries Reel Legends Fishing Competition have been forced to postpone the event.

The popular tournament was due to start with a briefing today, with fishing over Friday and Saturday.

“There are many factors influencing the decision to postpone,” said tournament hosts Brent and Jodi Wilson.

 “We have been in communication with Civil Defence officials, Coastguard, the Harbourmaster and other specialists to get advice, and based on information provided and due to safety concerns, their advice was to postpone,” they say.

Among the concerns is not only the current national state of emergency and the continued pressure on the emergency services but the drain such a major effect could have on the local infrastructure, including power and comms.

“Access to Northland is severely compromised with several closures on key roads such as Dome Valley and the Brynderwns. This restricts emergency services and the safety of those travelling, especially when towing a boat.”

Many of the keener competition crews will have planned to head to their favourite fishing spots in the dark. Reports from those who have ventured out in the last 24 hours indicate a large amount of debris, such as semi-submerged logs, trees and branches, littering both the harbour and Bream Bay waters.

“These are difficult to see in the best of conditions, let alone when the sea is still very  murky.”

The Wilsons say the team will take the time to review the status and look at future dates.

“Please bear with us while we work through this process. We will be in contact very soon to inform our registered anglers of our next steps. This will take a bit of time, but we will endeavour to communicate with our ticket holders within the fortnight.”

This is the second consecutive year aspects beyond the control of the hosts forced a postponement. Last year it was Covid restrictions that saw the contest initially rescheduled and ultimately cancelled; this year, it is a cyclone.

One of the frustrating aspects for everyone involved is the forecast for the next couple of days is quite good, with reasonably calm sea conditions predicted. 

 "For those Legends who have had their homes or businesses affected by Gabrielle, we wish you the very best. Our thoughts are with you,” the Wilsons say.

– Grant Dixon NZFN