Publication: nc14032012

After a pretty dismal summer boaties on all coasts in the region are reeling in some good catches as sea temperatures warm up. 

In the Kapiti area kingfish of up to 30kg have been reported, while along both the Makara and Kapiti coasts 9kg snapper are being caught.

Mana Cruising Club manager Wayne Roberts says there are lots of boaties out fishing. “They’ve said that the fish are definitely out there. They’re all bringing lots of snapper back with them.”

“We’ve had pretty horrible weather over the summer, but lots of people have been out on the water on nice days.”

He says the club is currently “ticking along nicely” with about 30 new members to be confirmed at a meeting next week. “We’re really healthy in terms of new members. Membership is always pretty good.”

Mana Cruising Club members were once again fishing for new records at last weekend’s fishing competition. Open to club members and their friends, the day has both old and young alike hooked each year.  

The fishing began at 7am sharp for those keen to win top prize at the weigh-in held late in the afternoon. A $1500 prize is awarded for the biggest snapper.

Mr Roberts says the competition always has a good turn out. “We get around 300 people each year. Lots of kids get involved because we’ve got a good list of prizes.”

Children aged 12 and under compete in prize categories for the heaviest and ugliest fish, as well as for the smallest weight differential between fish to angler. 

A prize was also awarded for the young fisher who could spin a tale as well as an old pro about that one that got away.

One fish from each boat out on the day was delivered back to the club in time for the evening’s barbecue.

Mr Roberts says he stays strictly behind scenes during the competition. “I’m a yachtie so I don’t really get into the fishing.”