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The
Programme
This gamefish tagging programme is a cooperative project between
the Ministry of Fisheries, the New Zealand Big Game Fishing Council, its
affiliated clubs and anglers, commercial fishers and the current fisheries
research provider who is Blue Water Marine Research Ltd.
The 2000/2001season is the first that yellowfin tuna will
officially be included in the gamefish tagging programme. While the bulk of yellowfin tagged
in the Australian gamefish programme is carried out using dart tags with a
plastic head, larger fish (over 10kg) are also tagged using the same
gamefish tags as used in New Zealand for sharks and marlin.
Cooperative tagging programmes provide information on the size and
distribution of fish released by recreational fishers. Recaptures provide
information on distance and direction of movement, time at liberty, and in
some circumstances the average migration rate (displacement rate) of the
fish involved.
Project aims to tag and release at least 20% of the recreational
yellowfin catch to study yellowfin movement from New Zealand and
will be reviewed in October 2001. If the fish you
tag is recaptured you will receive a letter with the details of where and
when it was caught, how far it has traveled and how long it was at
liberty.
Where to set
tag
µ Tags are available from your local fishing club or the NZ Big Game
Fishing Council. Usually
there is a $2.00 charge for each tag to cover
costs.
µ Tag applicator tips are available from some sports shops or
clubs.
Which fish to
tag
µ We recommended that only fish over 10 kg are tagged but would like
to see the whole size range of yellowfin tagged down to that
size.
µ Tunas can overheat if fought for a long time. Don' t tag yellowfin that are
totally played out and not likely to survive. Change up to heavier tackle if you
intend tagging and releasing.
µ Select fish that are hooked in mouth or lip for
tagging.
Tagging
procedure
µ Check the number on the tag and the card are the
same.
µ Place the tag in the slot of the applicator and use rubber band to
hold the tag in place.
µ We recommend that yellowfin should be tagged in the
water.
µ If bring the fish along side the boat, it is best to keep steaming
ahead at 4 knots, as the fish will lead in while swimming
ahead.
µ The tag should be placed tag high on the back about half way along
and angled back at 45o so that it will stream with the flow of
water when swimming (see diagram).
µ This is most easily achieved by getting behind the fish or placing
the tag while it is facing away from
you.
µ These tags hold best when inserted about 50 mm (2 inches) and with
the stainless steel dart pointing
forward.
µ Remember yellowfin are thin skinned so a firm and controlled tag
shot is best.
Releasing your
fish
µ Estimate the length and weight of your yellowfin and take photos if
you like.
µ It is best to remove the hook but if this is difficult it is less
stressful for fish and crew to cut the trace close to the hook and note
this on the tag card.
µ Record the date location and other details on the tag report
card. Don' t leave it till
later.
You must return your tag
card
µ It is vital that the tag report card is handed into your fishing
club or posted to the Ministry of Fisheries, PO Box 3437,
AUCKLAND.
µ There is nothing more frustrating than getting a really interesting
recapture from the tropics and not having the tag card because someone
didn' t bother to hand it in.
We all miss out on some important information and you miss out on
hearing about your fish.
Please don' t forget.
Lets
make this a success. Do it
well and help provide a glimpse into the lives of these ocean wanderers.
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