Rule change for big competitions

The two biggest fishing events in New Zealand face stricter rules next year on the weighing in of fish. The rule changes have been brought about due to a court case involving accusations of cheating.

In the Furuno fishing competition, fish must be weighed in on the same day that they were caught. This will help remove the chance of people using fish caught before the beginning of the competition. It is also hoped this will help increase the quality of the fish, which are sold to Moana Pacific Fisheries after the competition, with the profits going to charity.

 Some of the main prizes offered fro this years Furuno include a Holden and a boat and the competition expects to draw around 4000 competitors.

Similar rules will apply for the Ninety Mile Beach Snapper Classic where organizer Paul Brljevich has said anything considered to outside the spirit of the contest will be excluded. Prizes include three Fords and $80,000 cash.