Hauraki Gulf Fishing Report - February 4th, 2021

  • General Saltwater, Auckland and The Hauraki Gulf

Fringe fishing has been the go recently. Around the edge of the gulf has been the place to be catching fish and this is likely to continue as the baitfish, breeding and feeding are all ‘ON’ very near the shorelines.


The eastern edge of the gulf (over Coromandel side) has had its fair share of thumping gannets and bedlam underneath the last couple of days, with more spread out action ‘flash-mob’ style over the western side (the Tiri to Kawau line in particular). This northern Tiri area also has a lot of bait, which extends around the edges of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. Kahawai of every size are in good numbers on the southern side of the peninsula, and have been feeding there for several days, particularly in the afternoons. The upper areas of the Waitemata are a great place to target snapper – they are there and keen on little soft-baits and microjigs. Whether on a kayak, tiny tinny or trailer boat, these inner areas are the places to target. And while not traditionally the best time, midday has been surprisingly productive at times, so the dawn or dusk raid isn’t always required.

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Skipjack are showing signs out further – but they, like all fish, can be all-on and then vanish completely soon after. When they are on though, it’s a thrill whether you’re micro jigging or trolling Lil’ Squidwings at 5-6kts.
If it’s kingfish you’re after – yes Flat Rock is still worth checking out but there are a lot of sharks to contend with. Out further, Anchorite, Five Mile and Channel Island have all been holding fish. Definitely try out your topwater gear when they are on the bite – wow, adrenaline filled sight fishing is hard to beat. Easy to use, highly effective stickbaits will raise fish – the Zingaz (20g to 120g) or the stunning Catch handmade stickbaits will do the job. And when they aren’t on the bite, throw down a microjig. Yes, a little tungsten (it helps with speed of drop out deeper) Pocket Rocket will often create some excellent fishing. It’s fun being hooked up to a green machine when everyone else is scratching their heads wondering what’s going on.


Mixed bags of fish are a delight for dinner. It’s worth taking the time to target a variety of species rather than just snapper. Gurnard, trevally, kahawai, mackerel, dory, skipjack – all are great fish and all are keen to feed right now.
Summer fishing is on – get the gear and get out there!


Enjoy


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