Rollercoaster rides of fortune have been the norm out fishing the Hauraki Gulf lately, from simply superb to scratching
of heads – Where’s the Fish!?
Great fishing for several days on the trot while the entire food chain rattles has been experienced for many during the past week and this excitement can be expected to continue. Inevitably following such feasting is a bit of a lull, some good old RnR and general aquatic activities other than feeding on other fish. It just depends when you decide to be out there fishing whether not it’s all on with big jigs and big snapper/kingfish, or a ‘Kabura and microjig day’ i.e. a slow bite but you still want to catch fish.
Whales have been enjoying the pilchard schools out in 50m, long may they remain as a vital link in the entire food chain.
Workups have been spread far and wide from the Firth of Thames out to Anchorite rock, some great activity also out at Gt Barrier, but most will be happy chasing action in and around the 40-45 metre mid-gulf mark. Even if the gannets aren’t showing you the way, the mid ground has plenty of snapper to keep you entertained, just drift with your best lures.
Hey hey – the inner areas have also been getting some good supplies of snapper the past few days – out form the North Shore Bays, the Rangitoto channel, Rakino, yes there have been surprisingly good numbers of pannie snapper, as well as some great looking little grunters, gurnard. Soft baits and microjigs are the go in these sub-20m depths.
Kahawai seemed to vanish for a few days, however these fish are charging around all over the show – so a few of these fish for the smoker of fresh are on the list. How you catch them can be the best part of the day whether light tackle, or trolling whatever takes your fancy.
Spring fishing is ON!
Espresso.
