FRIDAY FLASH 30 December 2022
Fishing
I’ve had some pretty good reports about the fishing out around the Mercury Islands this week. Once again there have been some big snapper and there’s also been kingfish and the odd john dory caught. I suspect most people will be trying to stay out of the wind and swell in the week ahead so that may limit your options as far as fishing spots go. Typically the increased motor vessel traffic in the bay at this time of year reduces the number of fish caught close in but if weather permits, head out to at least the Black Rocks or the Mercury Islands where most of the popular fishing spots seem to be holding good size snapper.
Out wide, there have been a number of marlin caught, most of which have been tagged. There’s also been a constant stream of yellow fin tuna with a few shortbill spearfish and even a big eye tuna and a blue marlin. Most (but not all) have been caught in grid areas H &M Pascoe Boatbuilders, Kubota NZ and Churchy Charters NZ.
Kids on the Wharf Fishing Competition
Once again, a very happy event. A huge turnout in good weather and a lot of fun was had by all. Congratulations to all winners and a big thanks to all the sponsors, convenor Suzy Hardy and all the other helpers
Lunch
Please remember the club is open from midday for the next few weeks for lunch and/or refreshments. We look forward to seeing you here sometime over the holidays.
Suzuki Top Ten Tournament
As previously advised, this tournament has unfortunately been postponed a week because of the terrible weather forecast. The 8 day tournament now starts on Jan 7th with the final day fishing, and prizegiving, on Saturday Jan 14th. Remember there is $10,000 cash prizes to be won, along with 5 Suzuki outboard motors and other spot prizes.
Caulerpa Seaweed – Biosecurity Threat
MPI have asked us to communicate the following message:
The challenge is on to stop the spread of non-native Caulerpa seaweeds in the Hauraki Gulf this summer. They’re invasive and can smother native species and habitats. Caulerpa has been found at Ahuahu Great Mercury Island and Aotea Great Barrier Island.
Anchors and chains pose the biggest risk of spreading Caulerpa. So if you anchor at Great Mercury Island, check your gear when you pull up anchor and chuck any seaweed straight back in the sea at the same location. If you find something on your gear when you’re in a new location, put it in a plastic bag or bucket and put it in the rubbish back on land.
There are biosecurity restriction in place because of Caulerpa. At Ahuahu, no fishing is allowed in the controlled area from Maunganui Point to Ahikopua Point. You can anchor, but check your anchor and chain for seaweed before you move on. In Aotea, only hand line or rod and line fishing from the beach or wharf/jetty is allowed in Okupu Blind Bay, Whangaparapara Harbour and Tryphena Harbour. Anchoring isn’t allowed except with a permit in exceptional circumstances. Find out more about non-native Caulerpa, how to spot it and report it, and the restrictions at biosecurity.govt.nz/caulerpa
Club Draw
#473 $500 Christine Van Esch N/C
The Jug
$250 per draw
#1 #98 Lee
#2 #83 Gerald
#3 #22 Lisa
#4 #168 Pat
Chuck a Chook – Guest Tosser – Alex Papalone – off to USA next week
# 58 Peter dropped – took him unawares – nearly snuck out the window
#125 Walter top throw – good catch
#103 Brydon 1st throw – high and wide – no chance
2nd throw – straight at him, scaffled up
#63 Lee well caught
#56 Tania big log, got it in the end
#49 Tiana another good throw but easily taken
#178 Geoff top throw, another good catch
Wondering whether Alex is heading to the USA to be a baseball pitcher?
Tight Lines
Alan – Manager
