Snapper slowing progress into the Gulf

The last couple of weeks have been disappointing to say the least, with the weather just not letting up for any length of time. With this I have only managed a couple of short runs out in the boat, nothing flash but a good feed of fish each time.
 

With the forecast not great, I took the opportunity to take the boat into Haines HQ for its annual motor service and a polish before they get snowed under with the summer rush. I have to say they did a stunning job as usual, and theirs is service with a smile.

The intel I have on the Gulf from the few that have ventured out wide is the snapper have slowed their progress into the inner gulf, mostly holding in 30-40 metres. The workups are happening more frequently, and I suspect that this northerly gale that’s on us as I write will push warmer water in, stirring up the bottom, and the snapper should start to move in closer.

Another reason the snapper may be holding out wide is the roe sacks are way less formed than I expected at this time of the year. Fishing out in 25 metres as well as in close on the low foul, the gut contents still surprise me - nothing at all apart from one fish which had a bit of cockle shell. 

With the forecast still looking a bit dodgy I may see a break to sneak out early Saturday but remember the saying, “ If in doubt, don’t go out! “

Given the right weather window I would be heading out to the east of Anchorite and then work my way on an angle towards Gannet Rock. Dropping down to seven knots, I would do a series of zigzags several hundred metres apart to get a better overall idea of fish sign either mid water or hard on the bottom, and it goes without saying - look for any bird life either on the water or in the sky. Birds on the water are a sign of a workup, eit,her one that’s been or one yet to happen. Do a couple of big figure of eight loops close by as if there was a workup the snapper on the bottom should be close by.

My picks for the next couple of weeks are all very weather dependant, but straylining close in is still a safe bet to put a few fish in the bin.

Area 1 spots 9, 10 and 11 (Rangitoto, western side)

Area 2 spots 5, 14 and 20 (southern Rangitoto; Motuihe)

Area 3 spots 2, 6 and 18 (northern Rangitoto; western Motutapu)

Area 4 spots 6, 9 and 10  (Billy Goat Point - Otahuhu Point)

Area 5 spots 8, 10 and 11 (Maria Island - David Rocks; David Rocks)

Area 6 spots 8, 10 and 12 (Man 'o War Bay - Taniwhanui Point; Anita Bay; Hooks Bay)

Area 7 spots 7 , 11 and 21 (Rotoroa/Ponui Island - Ruthe Passage; eastern Ponui Island; Pakatoa Island - Rotoroa Island)

I know I point it out all the time but again you will find fresh sprats, jack macs or strip bait of kahawai or mullet will give you a more solid hook-up as they are still very light on the bite.   

- Bruce Duncan

Bruce’s Hauraki Gulf Fishing Hot Spots Guide has 150 proven spots including information on tides, weather, rigs and how to fish each spot. Get it here.