Fishing has been good this last week of July, Fair weather and a good bite has seen some great fish come in from different ports along the east coast. 

An impressive species with great eating qualities has seen increasing numbers of recreational fisherman targeting them over recent years.

The Japanese longline fleet discovered this fishery in the 80s, it remained relatively unknown in recreational circles until just 4 or 5 years ago when Ben Carey wrote and article for NZ Fishing news and promoted it on his well followed social media page. Tony King from TK offshore fishing also had a helping hand in promoting the fishery to recreational anglers. He and Ben have been instrumental in improving relationships between commercial and rec fishers. 

Some years are better than others mainly due to the schools proximity to shore. This year is proving to be a good one with fish being caught from Napier right up to the Coromandel.

If you choose to chase these awesome fish make sure your vessel is up to it. You could easily find yourself between 30-60 miles offshore. Coastguard is not required to tow your boat from beyond the 12 mile limit, you might find yourself being asked to abandon your boat if you break down out there. 

Check the weather, go with a group, make sure you carry all the appropriate safety gear and know how to use it. 

Good luck out there

Congratulations to the following members getting in on this week's action

Lance Davis / Kyca Kola Whangamata 

Todd Kelly / Bucket list Whakatane

Brad Mcnaughten / Korowai Whangamata 

Scott Gillam / Westicles Waihau Bay

Article added: Friday 31 July 2020