Manukau/West Coast Fishing Report 190418

  • General Saltwater, North Island West Coast - Kaipara to New Plymouth

I guess we are all over the storm by now but it is worth mentioning that if you are out on the water after a major weather event then it's wise to keep a sharp look out for debris floating in the water. The same applies to very big tides. Logs are possibly the biggest hazard but all sorts of stuff ends up in the water and you need to keep your eyes open.

The harbour has been fishing well, especially for snapper. While most will be in the up to 40cm range, which by the way are possibly the best size for eating, there are certainly some bigger models around.

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Trevally are also around in good numbers but they are a finicky fish to catch. Once you crack the code they provide great fun on light gear fighting much harder than a snapper of equal size.

Gurnard are still difficult to find, my old mate John Moran always says to wait until the first frost before you give them a serious crack and I think he may well be right.

Who knows what's happening out off the coast now but there may well be a marlin or two still around if the weather ever improves. Tuna likewise but I'm guessing mahimahi will be long gone.

I am sure there will be plenty of snapper if you're prepared to spend time finding them and the hunt is always the best part. Last year snapper fished well right through winter. Kahawai will most likely be abundant and while they are fun at times, in deep water they can certainly be a nuisance to snapper fishermen.

There are other options out west too such as hapuku, bass and broadbill but I'm out of my depth when it comes to giving advice on how and where to catch those monsters and no one is sharing! Again, the thrill is in the hunt.

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Counties Sport Fishing Club have an open to all Family Day competition at Te Toro on April 22nd and you can book your tickets with me on 021 654741 for only $10 per Adult and $5 for under 16's. This is a harbour only comp and you can find details on our facebook page.

Coming up we have our annual gurnard competition 'The Grunter Hunter' with $2000 for the heaviest gurnard. You won't believe the quality prizes we have up for grabs, all for catching a humble gurnard.

Most importantly don't park that boat up yet, there are so many opportunities at this time of the year.

Take care, Smudge.

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