Cooler, darker mornings and earlier onset of dusk heralds nature taking it’s Autumn course, which is great news for our fishing! Fall’s change is upon us all which brings an increase in fishing action – many different species to target, this is the season to enjoy some great fishing adventures for sure. It’s never a dull moment out in the gulf, whether being surprized by whales spouts just prior to these goliaths emerging from the abyss, excited banter overhead as gannets rain down on baitfish, or simply enjoying your favourite fishing style and spot peacefully, Autumn is the time to be fishing and the time is now.

Marlin – west has been best, but the marlin and YFT are within ‘cooee’ of the Hauraki Gulf. Mokes to Gt Barrier, Cuvier surrounds and around the back of Gt Barrier around 150m are prime spots right now when the planets align and allow a venture out. There’s been some very good catches of YFT, striped and blue marlin so if your world allows – it’s a great season to be big game fishing.

Inshore sights for sore eyes have been popping up, exciting stuff along a number of coastlines including the North Shore bays this week for instance! Early afternoon for several days this week has seen some excellent looking action – moving around a bit but usually contained between Gulf Harbour and Mairangi Bay. The inner areas have had quite a spark of life, easily visible with average eyesight or a pair of std binos. Terns, gannets, petrels, shearwaters all doing their best to get fish for dinner when the feeding switch is flicked on. There has been several hours between feeding sessions, with many of the birds just sitting and waiting it out – which means the fish are likely doing the same, in the same general area.

Further out yes there have been some intense workups going on, with many smaller frenetic styles of workups, smaller pods of dolphins and gannets hammering the baitschools in fast ‘n furious fashion. Faster moving and over quickly – but the need to feed is on indeed! Widely spread rather than one concentrated Spot-X, from Waiheke to Gt Barrier with more the further out you go. Good fast fishing to be expected.

How do I set my drag for softbaiting? A good critical question that’s often asked – so here’s quick video of how to set your drag – fast easy and effective: https://youtu.be/ahpvsKKqsjM

The great news is as soon as The Matrix allows – be out there fishing! Inshore areas are a very good place to be, lots of bird life pointing the way to hotspots, but even without them those shallows first thing in the morning (and mid afternoon if that bite continues) are prime places for Autumn snapper looking to put on some weight before winter. Out in the gulf the food chain is swinging from Summer style to Autumn bulk-up phase. Everything is out there – it’s just up to you to head out and be the hunter-gatherer for some of the best fresh fish in the world, right here.

Enjoy

Espresso.