January 2017 - The Fishing Paper & Hunting News

THE

FISHING FREE

January 2017 Issue 136

PAPER

&

HUNTING Cha

NEWS

moi

s cau

ght on

spring grass. Ph

r yl oto Da

Elephant’s

Crim

Stampede South Story page 12

Matt Jones gets a taste of eles on the rampage.



Summer kings



Mess in the mesh

BEGIN YOU SUMMER FUN

NEW MODELS

IN STOCK



Secret of Bug Lake

NOW

2017 models in stock now ready to go for Xmas

72 Grove Road, Blenheim

03 578 0569 - mwcraft.co.nz

p

2

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

NELSON’S SPECIALIST DIVING AND FISHING STORE

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

S D R A H C IL P 6 $ per per 1kg

$

6 1kg BULLET TUNA

3kg, 4kg, 5kg, 8kg

BERLEY BOMBS

IN

STORE

1kg FLYING FISH NOW Black Magic DX Point hook Reduces friction improves penetration.

Available instore now.

HUGE RANGE of NEW SEASON SNAPPER BAITRUNNER STRAYLINE & SOFTBAITING SETS

Nelson’s biggest range of SCUBA, SNORKELLING & SPEARFISHING equipment

FLASHER RIGS

20

$

HUGE RANGE OF KINGFISH LURES, JIGS & POPPERS

MARINE ELECTRONICS With Sean Ryan sean@fluidelectronics.co.nz

Transducers of the sky?

We press the PTT (push to talk) button on our radios and they either work or they don’t. When they are set up correctly with the right aerial, it comes down to the characteristics of the band, availability of repeaters, your location, and immediate environment. I will explain this in simple terms.

There are three main frequency bands, HF (High Frequency), VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra high frequency).

VHF and UHF can appear to be very similar, with line of sight operation, but act quite differently. A UHF signal acts like a golf ball struck in a steel room; it bounces around continuously until the momentum finally dissipates. This is why in urban areas it is usually far more effective, as it bounces its way from unit to unit, off different building and structures.

By comparison, VHF is like hitting the same golf ball into a room lined with foam rubber. It will bounce off a wall or two but its momentum is quickly absorbed.

VHF does not reflect off structures anywhere as effectively but it does have the ability to bend within certain limitations.

This band is most commonly used outside urban areas.

Both are significantly affected when in the bush and more so when the bush is wet.

However, similar transmission distances can be achieved by line of sight, from an unimpeded elevated position.

Both of these benefit from repeaters, and the more repeaters and the higher the elevation of their locations, the better

the signal. But not any frequency can go through a repeater. Each repeater has specific frequencies loaded and you need to use one of these, or your effective range is back to line of sight. Land-based repeaters are generally used on a pay as you go basis for each frequency you have access to.

High audio quality on these two band widths is expected with, digital radio transceivers giving much better voice quality than analogue.

The HF band is what is used by amateur radio enthusiast and on commercial fishing vessel SSB radios. The radio wave length characteristics of this cause it to act in a similar but different way to the others.

When triggered, the HF radiates directly around it like the other bands, but the signal continues to travel out until it reflects off the ionosphere and bounces it back down to earth. It works a bit like a pool ball bouncing off multiple cushions, repeatedly bouncing around the earth in this fashion.

Both temperature and the distance from the vessel to the ionosphere changes during the day, so regular frequency adjustments are part of their normal operation to ensure positive communications. Unlike UHF and VHF, there is much less distance limitation: where UHF and VHF transmissions are affected by the curvature of the earth, HF is not.

What is imperative for all radios, is to set it up right from the start and regular operational checks. Simply installing the earth strap correctly rectifies many SSB complaints.

competitive

GO Series Family

pricing

GO7 (7 inch)

GO5 (5 inch)

GO9 (9 inch)

• Easy to use multitouch display • Built in WIFI, CHIRP, GPS, structure scan and forward scan • Fully customisable interface • Total scan options • Engine data, autopilot and entertainment integration • GO9 radar capable with dual micro SD card slots Call the experts to get the right marine electronics for all of your boating needs with support you can rely on

Marine Electronics

Corner Akersten Street & Wildman Ave, Nelson Phone 03 546 7411 • www.bigbluediveandfish.co.nz

Home Automation

For friendly professional advice call in and see Mario and Mark.

022 1574 241

Check out our awesome fishing action. Follow us on Facebook.

Land Mobile Radio

Sales, Installations, Service, Support

www.fluidelectronics.co.nz

3

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Elephant

ticks & sunburn Tyler McBeth

The last time I’d gone surf-casting was well over two years ago. However, after hearing my friends having good trips, consisting of large rig and elephant fish, I felt the need to wipe the dust off my gear and get back out there.

I am a novice when it comes to fishing off the beach, having only caught spiny dogfish, one small rig around 6lb, and a skate in the past. Greg Gilbert urged me to fish a North Canterbury beach with him, where my chance of catching my first elephant fish would be high due to outstanding catch reports of days of nonstop action.

When we arrived at the beach it was a gusty, blistering hot north-west wind to our back and the sun was shining bright through the clouds. While setting up we noticed a person further down the beach releasing an elephant fish. Hopeful, Greg demonstrated a favourite rig and a few minutes later, a fresh paddle crab was cast out into the murky, greenish, brown ocean. A couple of hours went by with no joy for me and all Greg had to show for his efforts was a small school shark and a dogfish, so we decided to move to another spot, hoping to find something a bit larger.

After a long walk we set up again. Greg was using tuatua on his hook and I opted for half of a paddle crab; Greg said there was a good chance it would appeal to a rig as well as an elephant fish. With the traps set, we sat back and watched the numerous hector’s dolphins porpoising along the coast until, suddenly, my line fell slack. Thinking there may be a

A still life study called - 'Sprat on the rocks'.

Tyler tickled with his first 'trunk fish'.

dogfish at the other end I jogged over to the rod, reeled in the slack line and noticed my rod tip quivering. I lifted in and felt something of decent size at the end. After a short fight, with a few pitifully short runs, Greg grabbed the fish, while being cautious of the elephant fish’s massive spike on its first dorsal fin, as it flapped its body side to side. I was amazed how slimy and alien it looked and ecstatic at catching my first elephant fish. Not knowing how the rest of the day would play out, the fish was dispatched with a knock on the head before cleaning it.

Another couple of hours went past with no activity, apart from Greg catching a couple of hand-sized dogfish. Without warning, my rod bent double and then the line fell slack.

I rushed over and lifted in. FISH ON! Like the last one, it didn’t fight too hard; its longest run lasted just three or four seconds. As the fish was in the breakers, a shiny silver fish with contrasting black patches on its back and head indicated it was another elephant fish, this time slightly smaller than the last.

The hook fell out on the bank as it was flapping around. I picked the fish up and looked in awe at the prehistoric looking creature before releasing it.

The beach was now getting hotter but, unfortunately, the fishing was not. Eventually, as I was winding in my bait, my line went solid. Thinking I had hit the bottom with my breakaway sinker, I put a fair amount of pressure on and a kahawai leapt clear out of the water, shaking its broad head, while flaring its gills. After a short fight, the blue-backed, fat fish was flapping around on the bank. The kahawai coughed up a couple of freshly eaten sprats we later used in the hope of catching something of a decent size but the sprats didn’t last long with the pesky dogfish around.

Sitting around on the hot stones had left me drained and sunburnt. Either way, it was a good day fishing. To catch my first and second elephant fish was exciting, and ticked another species off the list.

Greg and I called it a day.

B OATI N G M A D E E A SY

SU MM ER FU N TOYS FO R TH E HO LIDAYS

S AV E

S AV E

Loose Unit Tribal 60” Deck Tube

199.95

$

SAVE $150

30g PVC inner tube and a tough 840 Denier nylon outer cover.

Nifty Boats Inflatable Fishing Kayaks

EXCLUSIVE RANGE $ .95

O’Brien Super Screamer

SUPER DEAL

1699

ONLY 30KG

Ideal for fishing, diving, hunting, whitebaiting or exploring.

DEAL VooDoo Ski Tube SUPER $ .95

299

Voodoo is a wild ride for SAVE $150 up to 3 thrill seekers! The 6 deluxe nylon wrapped handles with neoprene knuckle guards provide a sure grip.

OUTRAGEOUS FAMILY FUN FOR 1 OR 2 PERSONS

Waxenwolf Kinder Child’s Kayak

479.95

$

The perfect sit on to help your child learn the simple techniques of paddling a kayak.

O’Brien 54” Tubester

109.95

$

SAVE $30

Durable PVC tube. 4 handles with knuckle guards.

459.95

$

Comes with paddle. Yellow only.

319.95

SAVE $75

Allows 2 riders to “share the fun” on a tube that has become a legend on the water.

369.95

$

ADULT 68”

SAVE $40

459.95

O’Brien Celebrity 68” Combo Skis & Juniors

$

JUNIOR 58”

O’Brien Pro Tour Slalom Skis O’Brien has developed a total new ski for the beginner slalom skier.

72 Grove Road, Blenheim 03 578 0569 • www.mwcraft.co.nz

$

Whether you’re learning to ski for the first time or an experienced slalom skier, the Celebrity does it all!

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

KAYAKS & PADDLE BOARDS

OUTBOARD SERVICING

WATER TOYS

WAKE BOARDS

WATER SKIS

OUTBOARD ENGINES

ENGINE OILS & LUBRICANTS

CHANDLERY

KNEE BOARDS

4

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

Bommie-

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

STORY

knocking

Like kingies, but harder fighting Aussie GTs have a mean rap sheet.

& bruising encounters Brian Fensom

The black marlin cruised the outside of the reef but the skipper had us fish both sides. On a five-day mission to fish Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Troy Dando, Shaun Dando, Dan Fisher, and I were already into the action, stickbaiting the bommie atolls for pelagic predators. Hence the reason the skipper kept on the move; these fish lurk in the shadows and gutters, waiting to pounce their prey in lightning raids and pack attacks. The successful fisher is the one in the right place at the right time, and the one who imparts the most realistic action into the lures.

Two fishers fished the stern at a time, one casting into the zone and then moving around to the off-side while retrieving. This allowed the second person to step in and fire at the hot zone immediately after. It was nail gun fishing and you just had to keep hammering the water as the skipper quietly inched along, opening up fresh ground. In this manner, we’d already taken a coral trout, mackerel tuna, and I’d snaffled a splendid Spanish mackerel. But it was a different more sinister predator we were after this time.

FLY

Photo: Troy Dando

into summer fun with the family in your new boat!

185 Bowrider package ready to drive away

starting from

51,500

$

Powered by a 115hp 4-stroke outboard

Get in touch today for more info!

Ph 03 312 6523 email: info@raeline.com

5

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Casting over bommies is tough repetitious work.

While Andrea and Jo (my and Troy’s wives) were back on dry no doubt hooking into the G&Ts, us simple lads were just hoping to hook a GT!

Giant trevally are the glamour fish and prizefighters in the reef arena, and everybody wants to tick that box.

They grow to huge sizes but even the teenagers can pack a punch that will leave you reeling. They are ideally camouflaged to disappear at short notice, their tropical colour allowing them to meld with the shadows, contours, and ripples of their

threshold and keep going. Deckies sit on the flying bridge, looking for baitfish and then direct your casts. When someone hooks up, the other keeps fishing; where there is one there’ll be others. Sometimes you see the fish torpedo the lure - sometimes you don’t.

My lure suddenly stopped dead for a millisecond and then a solid weight telegraphed through the line and was transmitted through the bend in the rod.

Power versus power and the toughest wins.

It’s an explosive, dirty, nasty battle, with the GT aiming to instantly smash you on the coral; just like a kingi - on steroids. We were fishing with drag cranked up to stop long blistering runs, but the GT could still load the rods to the limit and then pull string.

There was nothing for it but to match them head on; deliver XOS pump and wind and

GT - pack wolves of the reef.

surrounds, so you never know where they are or when they’ll come knocking. They can be lurking the edges of the wash, hanging back off the deep drop offs, to skulking in the shadowy gutters between bommies.

The modus operandi is to keep working likely ground, casting, twitching, hauling, and immediately doing it all again. Arms and shoulders burn but you cast past the

skull drag them away from the coral. The skipper helped by idling the boat to deeper water and then it was a test of strength Tyson-like in intensity.

Once traced and swung aboard by the deckies, realisation and respect set in.

Respect for such a nuggety fighter and realisation that, pound for pound, you’d just survived a bruising encounter with one of the meanest little scrappers around.

Cruise Fiordland - Suitable for couples, individuals & small groups

4, 6 and 10 night cruises

June, July & August each year

Amazing Scenery • Surprising History • Social Fishing • Shore Visits Private Cabins • Fully Catered • Warm & Comfy Vessel

www.affinitycruises.co.nz 0800 862 334

6

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Thresher a fiddly eater Doug Clifton

With a thick matt of grubby grey clouds hanging low over the horizon and threatening to choke the surrounding hills, a crew from Hunting & Fishing Richmond and Nelson headed into lumpy seas with snapper on the collective mind. Straight to the 25m mark, which encompasses a fair chunk of area so it’s hit and miss if you find the snapper. There’d been reports of plenty in the bay but you still need to cover the bases: berley, light gear, and good bait.

We must have done something right because the first snapper chomped a stray-lined anchovy immediately - before the berley pot was even in the water. I was using was a Shimano Stradic 5000 on a Shadow X Nano rod, so was going for some light action action.

It wasn’t a full on snapper blitzkrieg but more of a steady as you go day. We each caught two or three for a feed over the morning session and managed a few gurnard to colour things up a bit.

The high point, however, was when my light gear loaded up with something grunty and I was put to the test something wicked. I

initially thought kingfish, but there was a tremendous heap of weight attached and I really had no clue. Whatever it was, it was huge but with a small appetite; it had taken a tiny anchovy drifting back in the current.

After taking me all around the boat for twenty minutes, we saw colour and it was not

what anyone expected. From the sloppy murk the metallic blue of a stocky thresher shark glided to the boat.

These things stun their prey with their powerful tails, so I gingerly grabbed the base of this ones and heaved it aboard. After a quick photo, it was released.

Anchovies on the stray-line brought a raft of snapper to the boat.

S TO R Y

Doug dug deep to get this puppy up.

CUSTOMISED BEDS for Boats, Baches, Motorhomes & Trucks!

If you’re wondering if it can be done, just ask!

59 Quarantine Road, Stoke

Ph: 03 547 4567

nelsonbeds@clear.net.nz “Come in and talk to us about a sleep you won’t remember at a price you won’t forget”

www.nelsonbeds.co.nz

7

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

STORY

FIELD TEST:

SHIMANO SHADOW X NANO 15’ 3 PIECE/ SHIMANO ULTEGRA XSD Andrew Claridge

I recently had the opportunity to do a bit of field testing on the NEW Shimano Shadow X Nano 15’ 3 piece surf rod coupled with the new Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD surf reel. Something I had wanted to get my hands on as soon as I heard about it.

The first thing I noticed once picking up the new Shadow X rod is how incredibly light weight it is for its size - it’s by all means not a small rod. The rod is kitted out with some great looking cosmetics and comes with all high end Fuji componentry, custom EVA grips, and Nano graphite blank. The new Shimano Ultegra XSD 14000 reel is the latest upgrade from the previous Ultegra XSC model, which I have been fishing for the last few years. It is one sharp looking reel with great cosmetics and all the features that you want in a surf reel. The super slow oscillation lays the line perfectly on the spool and the X-Ship gearing gives you great power with effortless winding while being super smooth.

Matched together they make a perfect combo for someone who wants that extra performance from the shore.

My first test of the combo was surfcasting down a stretch of the Kaikoura coastline.

While it was not a great test on fighting fish,

on this occasion it was great to really put the rod through its paces in a true surfcasting environment, doing what it was made to do. The rod itself is easy to cast and very forgiving, with a nice responsive tip but action powerful enough to cast a sinker along way. Being 15’ also gives it great clearance from the surf so you will have a nice angle on your line and clear out past the breakers.

Since then I have been targeting rig (lemonfish) around Nelson, which is a commonly targeted surf fish in the South Island. They are a great fighting fish and really gave the rod and reel a good test.

The powerful blank puts the hurt on the fish and not the angler, while the Ultegra gives you the winding power to get the fish in along with high performing drag to allow for any runs. My overall experience using the combo: I was very pleased with how they both performed together and feel that beginner to more experienced surfcasters could really use this rod and reel to their advantage, as it is so easy to use. I really encourage someone if they are looking for that new surfcasting combo or they want to add extra distance and performance to their array of surf gear, to check them out.

BLENHEIM

20% 0FF ALL FLY FISHING GEAR RIDGELINE SUMMER WEAR AT KNOCK DOWN PRICES T’s, shorts, polos, from $25. Awesome women and kid styles plus something for the men.

PLUS one off specials throughout the store!

FAMILY LEISURE DIVE GEAR AT SEA BOTTOM PRICES Mask/snorkel sets start at $25, adult suits down from $200 to $120

NEW STOCK

of innovative SABATTI quality European hunting rifles now in store.

Come & see them!

Easy access and parking

66 Grove Road, Blenheim 03 578 8742

NEW CRITTER SET 25LB COMPOUND BOW SET Pink or green sets

$99 CHECK THESE DEALS Air rifles from .............. $70 Archery sets from ..... $50 Great deals on shot-shells and clay targets 20% OFF all rod/reel combos and line spooling at $20 per 100m including line.

Get in now to the LOCAL STORE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE for a Summer Sizzler bargain!

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

8

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

From stockings to snapper

Grace Hart-Johns makes a fashion statement with Mr Red.

Graeme Johns

The Kinks weren’t talking about me when they had a smash hit in 1966 with Dedicated Follower of Fashion but fifty years on, my wife Grace fits the bill nicely. We’ve been together five years and married two, been fishing five times together, and she doesn’t quite make the Five-foot’ Club. At ‘foureleven-and-a-half’ she’s a pocket bundle of heels, hems, and hi-gloss.

It was no surprise when we met that she rolled her eyes at the thought of fishing, but she had the pluck to give it a go. I had to turn her away that first time, though, and send her

home; a bloke can’t abide high heels in the boat. To give Grace her dues, she rallied and we got her used to the sea one step at a time; nothing kinky, just the odd quiet picnic and driving lesson.

Grace works at Fashion Island in Nelson, so it was a big step to go from stockings to snapper but we got there with occasional brim. We’d seek them here and we’d seek them there — dedicated followers of fishing (sorry, got away from myself a bit there).I still haven’t trained her to bait the hook, but ‘baby steps Johnsy’.

On a recent trip, I laid the berley and set the stray-line as usual, but didn’t anticipate our sudden change in fortunes. One rod whipped, flicked, and settled into a smooth arc as the reel squealed out line.

“Grab it Grace,” I shouted.

Well, she gave it her best shot but operating the rod and reel like a log hauler and winch was never going to cut it on the catwalk, so I gave her the benefit of some vocal tuition. She shot me a stiletto look but quickly adapted to the pump and wind.

“It’s too heavy… my arms are too weak… I can’t do it!”

But she did. Simply because I didn’t help.

It was worth all the hairy looks to see her beam when she realised what she’d caught - a stunning 13lb snapper. Now she’s hooked - a real dedicated follower of fushin’ - and wants to go again.

But first we had to go home and celebrate.

Nothing kinky mind!

Stockings…

You can now get MORE out of The Fishing Paper & Hunting News with

& WATCH behind the scenes footage at The Fishing Paper headquarters

TFP

e v i t c a r e int Make your page come alive. How?

1.DOWNLOAD

2.SCAN

a QR Scanner app on your smartphone

the QR Code on the page

What is a QR Code?

QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response Code) A QR code consists of black modules (square dots) arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device.

3.VIEW

the action!

9

THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

10 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Captain’s Log: Beam me up spotty Heads found in freezer

The oldest known surviving example of early taxidermy, outside of mummified Egyptian pets, can be found in a museum in Italy: a rhinoceros believed to have been mounted in the early 1500s. The preservation techniques used were so good, the rhino is still in great shape today.

The first book on taxidermy was written by French explorer and naturalist Pierre Belon in 1555, but it wasn’t until the Victorian Era the ‘art form’ was popularised. As people began to travel, so too did they want a ‘momento’ of where they’d been and a small bird or animal mount came into vogue: early tourists and early souvenirs, so to speak. Museums also got in on the act, commissioning hunters, explorers, and naturalists around the globe to collect ‘samples’ for study and display to the paying public.

While not as popular as in Victorian times, taxidermy is flourishing worldwide and modern techniques have taken the form to new levels of realism and art. Along with it has come a resurgence in trophy hunting, with many hunters, young

OUTBOARD MOTORS

2 stroke from 2hp TO 90hp 4 stroke from 2hp TO 40hp

Come and have a look at the full range of PARSUN Motors

YOUR AFFORDABLE REPOWER SOLUTION 90HP 2 stroke

$

60HP 2 stroke

7995

$

and old, thrilling in the challenge of seeking out that wily old male worthy of a place above the mantle. Some just have a good challenging hunt and want the animal immortalised as a reminder of the stalk, while others may want their ‘first’ of a species on the wall as a milestone marker. Then there are those motivated more by the tape measure and pursuit of excellence in, size, mass, and symmetry. Some are single species driven while there are those who become specimen collectors, seeking a representative of a wide range of species or a particular family of animals. Whatever the motivation, it is a practice that has been around for centuries, perhaps in some form since man first hunted.

The range and style of forms has improved dramatically, giving extremely lifelike representation in many poses. In hand with this, Kiwi taxidermists approach their craft as an art form and some are rated amongst the best in the world.

Warren Plum of Nelson has been mounting animals for approximately 30 years and loves the whole process of creating a lifelike mount that meets with the satisfaction of the hunter.

“A good mount will come to life and serve as a constant reminder of the challenge, effort, and skill that went into taking the animal,” says Warren, “and allows the hunter to recapture the thrill of the hunt over and over.”

Plus, a nice chamois or deer mount personalises the home and adds to the ambience.

There are options to full skin mounts, with European mounts becoming increasingly popular; the bleached skull is trimmed and mounted on a shield. Warren says these are more affordable and take up less room than full skin mounts, and also give hunters opportunity to display lesser heads that they might otherwise not mount. They have an appeal of their own and really create an effect in the trophy room or hall.

European or skull mounts are an affordable option to full mounts.

Remounting old mounts is also something to consider; the family ‘heirloom’ of great uncle Bert’s West Coast red or that tahr you shot thirty years ago that has become bleached and tattered. Warren says putting an older trophy on a new form and recovering it with a new skin not only refreshens it, but extends its life and makes it more lifelike.

If you have a head in the freezer, an old mount that needs a rebirth, or trophies sitting around that would look good as a shield mount, call Warren now. Contact details in The Directory. plumstone@xtra.co.nz

7400

MORLEY mo&tomarcrinycele 25 Elms St- Wakatu Industrial Estate Stoke Ph (03) 544 8703 • www.morleymotorcycles.co.nz

Helping you make time for the good things in life...

59 Saxton Rd, Stoke, Nelson • Ph 03 547 4777 Fax 03 547 6208 • www.stokegl.co.nz

OPEN 7 DAYS

Courtesy Trailers Available

THE ULTIMATE IN QUICK, EASY, HASSLE-FREE CAMPING

EASYg Campin

Warren at work in his taxidermy studio.

For the ultimate in quick, easy hassle free camping you don’t need to look any further than our range.

Spend more time fishing, boating, exploring and enjoying the outdoors and less time erecting your tent.

• Made from waterproof rip-stop polycotton canvas • Heavy duty, waterproof heat-sealed PVC floor • All guy ropes are attached and concealed in tent pockets • Tent comes in a waterproof carry bag • Five models available plus many optional extras • 2-year warranty OZTENT Chairs and Stretchers Total comfort and quality with 150kg weight rating plus 5 year warranty.

Visit our website oztentnz.co.nz for more info and online shopping or call 0800 109933

10 Nelson St, Blenheim Ph: (03) 577 9933 sales@mikesmowers.co.nz

11 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

STICK YOUR OAR IN

CRIMPTOON

FREEMAN GROUP – Home of the Roofing Gurus

HAVE YOUR SAY…

Mail your letters to Stick Your Oar In The Fishing Paper, PO Box 9001 - Annesbrook, 7044, NELSON email: editor@thefishingpaper.co.nz

One people… Yeah Right!

Dear Ed, Largely overlooked or not realised, by the media, are Treaty of Waitangi claims. It is proceeding apace be it quietly.

A cabinet paper obtained under the Official Information Act shows policies for iwi control of fresh water are still being worked on behind the scenes, with plans to release a further proposal after the election.

To complicate matters, iwi rights to fresh water are again being considered by the Waitangi Tribunal - for a second time. Reports indicate they are expected to recommend financial remuneration measures for tribes, to ‘compensate’ them for the public’s use of fresh water. This is something else that will need to be vigorously opposed.

It goes further.

It’s not only the control of fresh water that iwi are pursuing, but the power to decide resource consent applications as well - and reportedly and unbelievably, Environment Minister Nick Smith has now included these radical provisions in the Resource Management Act amendment that is presently before parliament.

One is left pondering on the inequality issues, particularly since many involved in making wholesale claims are of very minority Maori blood. And after all, there was no difference between Maoris coming here 14th century and Europeans 19th century. Both were migrants, self introduced. So while the treaty’s intent was ‘one people’ by sleight of hand and gullible politicians, NZ is becoming divided.

B Jones QSM Wellington

WE ARE YOUR ROOFING SPECIALISTS FOR THE TOP OF THE SOUTH

GREAT PEOPLE - QUALITY PRODUCTS - CALL US TODAY Talk to one of our Roofing Gurus “we’ve got you covered”

BOOK REVIEW

4 Elms St, Stoke - P 03 544 3108 sales@freemanroofing.co.nz

visit freemanroofing.co.nz for our full range & services

Fiordland

By Andris Apse Potton & Burton, $80

Join the

Reviewed by Lynnaire Johnston

Thud. This 2.2kg book hit the doormat with a wallop the morning after the Kaikoura earthquake. It gave us a hell of a fright.

Which quickly turned into a love affair.

I don’t usually get all gushy over landscape photographic books but this one is a standout. (Even the hard-to-please mother-inlaw was impressed.)

You might think that photos only of Fiordland would be repetitive. You couldn’t be more wrong. There are photos of mountain ranges vanishing into the distance and fiords whose beauty eclipses their more famous northern counterparts. The New Zealand native bush is resplendent in more shades of green than the English language has words for. Colour and light are both used to devastating effect.

From a technical standpoint, the photos are masterpieces while the stories about their provenance range from the insightful to the downright hilarious. A comedy writer as well as a photographer. What a talent!

Especially when you line this up against the photos we all constantly take on our phones

or digital cameras, and believe them to be great.

But you only have to look at the quality of photos in Fiordland to realise that the ones we take are missing a certain element (or several). Usually, that’s light. And patience.

Plus experience. As well as a certain eye that can predict the perfect shot. That adds up to the difference between our own endeavours and those of Apse being chalk and cheese.

With a raft of photographic credits to his name, Apse spends hours, days, and sometimes weeks waiting for the right light, the right weather, and the right moment to take his shots. Often in tents in pouring rain and gales. You have to admire his commitment and sheer guts.

He says, “If my photographs are able to evoke some real sense of Fiordland’s remoteness and grandeur, its storminess and tranquillity, its summer warmth and winter chill, then I am more than happy with the outcome.”

It is fair to say he has succeeded. This book will become a family heirloom.

Old Indian Chief Say...

So when a man asked what his wife’s name was, the old indian chief replied, “she called Five Horses.”

“That’s an unusual name for a woman.

What does it mean?” the man said.

The old Indian chief answered, “It old Indian name. It mean...

NAG, NAG, NAG, NAG, NAG!”

NG I H S I F THE

&

31 Stuart St, Blenheim - P 03 578 8793 sales@rooflinemarlborough.co.nz

R PAPE

HUNTING NEWS

Published by Coastal Media Ltd

261 Paton Road, Hope PO Box 9001, Annesbrook, 7044, NELSON

Ph 03 544 7020

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Editor

Daryl Crimp 021 472 517 editor@thefishingpaper.co.nz Sub-Editor

Mike Brown Administration & Sales

Annette Bormolini 021 028 73393 annette@coastalmedia.co.nz

Sales

Sarah Neville sarah@coastalmedia.co.nz Graphic Design

Patrick Connor

production@coastalmedia.co.nz Deputy Editor

Ron Prestage rgprestage@xtra.co.nz Printer

Inkwise

on

PORT NELSON

Refuelling made easy at NPD Marinestops Get an NPD card and save big on fuel with our extensive marine and land network throughout the South Island.

Supergold card will get you 15 cents off per litre of fuel.

Bring in ANY supermarket voucher and we’ll give you 12 cents off per litre of fuel

• Salt ice / Party ice • Rental cars & vans • Bait Shack • Sandwiches, pies

Plenty of room for the boat

Opening hours MON - FRI 6.30am to 7pm | SAT & SUN 7am to 5.30pm

Wildman & Vickerman St, Port Nelson | Ph: 03 548 2249

Contributors

Marty Bowers

B Jones

Daryl Crimp

Kim Swan

Simon Jones

Ron Prestage

Graeme Johns

Mark Hubbard

Sean Ryan

Andrew Claridge

Lindsey Bishop

Poppa Mike

Lynnaire Johnston

Mark Sherburn

Ant Corke

Tyler McBeth

Paul Drummond

Mark Roden

Jay Lynch

Dylan Booth

Frank Cartwright

Bryce Helms

Dave Duncan

Ian Hadland

Karl Barlow

Dave McDonald

Chris West

Daniel Crimp

Steve McEwan

Brian Fensom

Doug Clifton

Graham Gurr

The Fishing Paper & Hunting News is published by Coastal Media Ltd. All editorial copy and photographs are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions or comments expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the staff, management or directors of Coastal Media Ltd. Unsolicited editorial, letters, photographs will only be returned if you include a stamped self addressed envelope.

12 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

BOOM,

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Patrick Noone of Canterbury plucked a few from the herd as well.

ele ele ele!

Simon Jones

Finished work at The Complete Angler and headed for Bailey’s Beach at 100mph. Without wasting a second, I rigged up the 350 Honda 4x4 and boosted along the beach, following the GPS co-ordinates to a spot we’d had a good run with rig the previous year. It was a large sandy area that shelved up perfect for tuatua, and with a full tide nearing 10.00pm, a tidy spot for ambushing fish.

We rigged up, using a basic pulley rig with a breakout sinker, 40lb fluorocarbon trace, impact shield and a 7/0 KL Black Magic hook, and an assortment of bait: the standard crab and prawns, but for the first time, a secret bait whispered in hushed ‘ele circles’. Paua! Someone had told us eles’ really went for it,. so we scrounged some off a mate’s dad and thought we’d give it a chance.

I was fishing with brother Matt and Patrick Noone; the sea real tidy with almost non-existent surf and hardly a breath of wind.

Patrick tried the paua first, while I snagged on a prawn and Matt stuck to crab. No sooner had Patrick cast and his rod bent, loaded up, and line peeled like it was a vanishing act. It really was a case of boom, ele ele ele, because in no time we’d all hooked up on fish of similar size. These crazy fish put up more of a fight than you’d expect. Epic.

Patrick was nailing it on the paua so Matt and I switched, the results emphatic: boom, ele ele ele!

As time wore on, the elephant fish petered out and were replaced by small rig, so we shifted camp another couple of K down the beach. It was uncanny; the eles must have been parked up ready to go. No sooner had we cast and it was rods buckled - boom, ele ele ele!

To add to the ambience, we lit a fire and stoked the embers on dark so the night sky exploded in a shower of red and yellow sparks. The flames crackled and popped to a backdrop of a gentle surf, and we fished on until the top of the tide. We kept three fat elephants for a feed and released the rest, along with all the rig. There are plenty off the coast so get amongst them.

Simon wasn’t shaken by the stampede of eles. Photo Matt Jones.

Quality NZ made nets and setlines •SNAPPER •FLOUNDER •BUTTERFISH •MOKI •RIG •COMMERCIAL NETS & REPAIRS

ide w n o Nati ping ship

SETLINE SPECIAL

PACKAGE INCLUDES 350 Pound nylon backbone with spacers 3 Downlines 2 x 20m & 1 x 40m ONLY 2 Floats 2 Grapnel hooks 25 hooks with clips plus shipping crimped & tied

200

$

THE NET SHED Net making, repairs & supplies Phone 027 487 3184 | 03 548 5107 mark_saunders@xtra.co.nz 16 Vivian Place, Tahunanui, Nelson

STORY

13 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Battling biggies at Niue Daniel Crimp

It was an early rise for Mum and Dad but I was up an hour before, eager to get on the water.

We arrived at the docks, me bouncing in the back like a little Jack Russell. The sun was still asleep but the boat was already there waiting with the skipper raring to go. We hopped on board and took off. I was ecstatic at just the thought of catching a wahoo or any tropical fish at that.

The sun finally decided to rise and as soon as it did, the wildlife followed: there were birds bombing, whales breaching in the distance, and dolphins playing in the wake of the boat.

Most importantly the fish were biting.

We had a few takes early on but then it went quiet for a bit.

The skipper said to pull up the lures when out of nowhere Dad’s rod buckled over, ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ, the reel was screaming! He launched forward and straight away we knew it was big. The conditions weren't ideal, with the swells picking up but he battled through it.

Well into the fight, the beast started to tire, and so did the fish - but neither was going to give in. It must have seen the boat and went for one last ditch attempt to free himself. PING! The rod tip flung back and it was over; around an hour of battling only to be broken off on its last run. Dad was gutted, the skipper reckoned it was around 50kgs - an absolute monster. We were knackered but were not giving up.

The trolling continued; a small skipjack kept mum happy and we had lots of takes but no hook ups. Just as the skipper decided to turn back I hooked up. Line melted from the reel.

After 15 minutes of battling the monster, I started to gain control but he did not give up fighting. All the way up to the boat it was shaking and circling, trying everything to escape but it was no match for me. Half-an-hour of pump and wind and it was on board. The battle was over. I had one; not the biggest fish but at 15kgs, a monster to me. We knocked him on the head and I went home a happy man, having out-fished Dad once again.

It was a great experience and definitely recommend giving it a go. You never know what’s gonna happen.

BOOK REVIEW

The Last Days of Night

By Graham Moore Simon & Schuster, $38 Reviewed by Daryl Crimp

The cartoon image of a lightbulb popping on in a thought bubble is synonymous with bright ideas and genius, and is recognisable across cultures worldwide. The notion that one seemingly simple invention could create, over time, such indelible and iconic imagery is nothing short of fantastic, especially when you consider the story behind it’s invention.

Names like Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, Isaac Newton, and Earnest Rutherford stand like historical lighthouses in our minds but beneath the beacons the machinations of the past are often more intriguing; the luminaries attaining brightness by standing on the shoulders of other

greats. Such is the story of the humble lightbulb, its invention, and the static that fomented around its ‘ownership’.

Historians referred to it as The Current War. Talented author Graham Moore has researched the events and protagonists involved in the historical dispute, sorted fact from fiction, and interpreted events in context with the societal times to produce this gripping historical novel. By adding narrative, fleshing out personalities, and condensing timelines, he has managed to present history in an entirely palatable, plausible, and entertaining manner.

Part legal thriller, part drama, and all fact, The Last Days of Night is Grisham

meets Poldark!

To take a subject as potentially dull as electricity and shape it into a novel that is pacy, illuminating, suspenseful, dramatic, and humorous is masterful.

I would venture that even those disinterested in history would find this hard to put down.

Graham Moore is a talent to be followed.

Soon to be made into a motion picture starring Eddie Redmayne.

ENGINEERING SUPPLIES

plus • RFD Jackets • Flares • Kentiki longline hauler • Surf rod & reel sets • Fishing tackle • Caltex marine & motor oils

WESTLAND ENGINEERING SUPPLIES 10 Boundary St, Greymouth Ph (03) 768 5720 Fax: (03) 768 0907

From the team at

238 High St, Motueka, Ph: 03 528 1113 2 Muritai St, Tahunanui, Ph: 03 548 6623 3 Salisbury Rd, Richmond, Ph: 03 544 6183 15 Commercial St, Takaka, Ph: 03 525 9207

14 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Mark Hubbard struck gold with this West Coast brown.

Hot Shotz salmon tips Lindsey Bishop

Weapon of choice - Wondercast white 28gm Zed Spinner slightly modified.

Remove the swivel to put more movement into the lure in slower water.

Remove the factory supplied hooks and replace with Hot Shotz Chemically Sharpened High Carbon hooks, specially imported from Korea. These are as good as any other brand of treble hook I have used previously, only stronger so hold their sharpness longer.

On the shank of the treble, slip a short piece of yellow soft lumo tube. This adds attractant glow, especially at depth or in low light.

On the back of the Zeddy, affix a piece of lime green tape.

This has proven its worth for me for years so something I just feel better about and uncomfortable if I don't have that extra bit on there somewhere.

West Coast perfection Mark Hubbard

Beep, beep, beep……..whack! The alarm sung out at 5.00am and with the prep work done the night before, all I had to do was add some hot water to my thermo mug of coffee and get on the road.

My destination today was a small tannin stained stream on the West Coast, discovered many years ago whilst fishing the larger river that it drains into. Four hours later I was at the water’s edge searching for dark fishy shapes. The conditions were near perfect, as the sun was beating down and the wind was staying away.

I like to use a bigger bushy dry fly as an indicator and trail a nymph underneath, which gives Mr Trout a couple of snacks to choose from as they drift past.

As usual, the first run, a very sedate slow moving pool, produced quite a few fish, with a few being sighted as they cruised the edge. As I moved upstream, the character of the stream changed as the water now became faster flowing, which had the trout holding station in the usual eddies, behind boulders and logs, or hard against the bank.

I spot a good shape hoovering from side to side in a great eye at the top of a run, prime real estate for any trout.

The water was quite shallow so I selected an unweighted nymph and sent it up into the danger zone. This guy wasn’t interested in that light snack and it rose to suck down the large deer hair indicator fly.

Fortunately the hook held firm and, after the odd leap and run toward the nearby over hanging willows, I was able to slide him into the net.

Stunning golden colouring with an even thick covering of spots made this trout a perfect specimen.

The day produced many more golden browns but none were as clean and well marked as this guy.

HUGE RANGE

OF FISHING & HUNTING GEAR FOR EVERYONE!

CALL IN AND SEE US FOR

• Rod and reel sets in store

1899

$

• Heaps of combo specials • Kids, surf, boat + more

12 pack cans of Tui, DB & Export for December & January

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE’S BUDGET

knudsen sports

Available at all 3 stores; Golden Bay, Motueka and the soon to open Motueka South in the Caltex carpark. www.liquorland.co.nz

170A Palmerston St, westport - Ph 03 789 6293

Liquorland Golden Bay 5 Motupipi St, Takaka T. 03 525 7270

& Toyworld

MADE IN NELSON FOR OVER 20 YEARS

TOP OF THE SOUTH

SALES & SERVICING FOR

We service, sell, and maintain all Volvo Penta products.

We carry a full range of marine engines parts to suit. If you need a new engine for your boat or if you are in need of an engine service, give us a call.

t: 03 573 6477 www.seatechmarine.co.nz CALL US ABOUT OUR Waikawa Marina, Picton, Marlborough

REPOWER OPTIONS

Liquorland Motueka 90 High St, Motueka T. 03 528 1416

• • • • •

100% waterproof Warm - hardwearing Tried & tested Durable fabrics Comfortable designs

• • • • •

Jackets Bibs/trousers Vests etc...

TTMC compliant FR/AS garments

10a Forests Road, Stoke | ph: 03 539 0022 New Zealand made by local people

Join our photo competition!

www.nalder.co.nz

15 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

16 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

summer G this

kayakin Get into

Father wants to sell son Daniel Crimp

5.00 am - the stars sparkling in the sky as we hoist the kayaks onto the back of the truck. After a quick check to make sure we had everything, we were off racing down to Monaco near Nelson to launch the kayaks for our first voyage.

NZ Made

9 from $19 kids kayaks and g at $599 aks startin

adults kay

STORY

.nz

akhq.co

www.kay 3 Duncan

son

Phone: 539

4181

St, Port Nel

The sun accompanied us as we made our way out of the estuary and, gazing upon the acrobatic show of grey mullet leaping out of the water, we spotted a small work up in the distance and from then it was full steam ahead, gliding across the glass-like water at lightning speed.

It didn't take long to get out there and chuck the lures out and before I knew it, I was in; nothing huge, just a small kahawai, but still enough to get the heart pumping. We had had our fill of the babies and decided to throw the anchors over and chuck some baits out.

Within the blink of an eye my rod doubled over. I launched towards the rod holder and struck.

“FISH O…!” I shouted at Daymon but before I had a chance to finish what I was saying, my other rod buckled over.

I managed to land the first one, a huge kahawai, but I had no time to celebrate as I had the other fish to bring in. It wasn't easy to pull it in with another one flapping between my legs but I managed. to - eventually: another big kahawai.

A quick bleed out and then chucked in the back and I was ready to go again.

The bites were a bit slower after that but I didn't complain, as we managed to pick up a feed; me bagging a couple of small snaps, a handful of gurnard, and a heap of kahawai, and Daymon just about matching me.

We had a bit more fun on the way home, getting towed around by big kahawai in the swells. The sun beamed down, burning us to a crisp but we didn't care, it was a great trip for a first - and still more fish than Dad could catch all year!

Daymon checks over the menu.

Chef Daniel adds the finishing touch to a great day

STORAGEe Secur Safe and

Motorhomes • Boats Cars • Caravans $

25

24/7 access - fully fenced - 24 hour surveillance Staff on site Mon - Fri 8am to 5pm

Kayaking

Enquiries: phone Colleen Donaldson

541 0287 or 027 454 3813

with Chris West

Hope Storage (2011) Ltd - 52 Ranzau Road, Hope

SUMMER PADDLING Summer is here; the long, hot days are finally happening and the beach is the place to be. Everything is good….as long as we don’t get sunburnt. When on the water, we are more prone to getting sunburnt as the water reflects the sun’s rays back at us for a second go at burning us. To give us protection, we can add a hat, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. A part of our body that is easily overlooked though is our hands. When paddling, the tops of our hands are fully exposed to the sun. Here are a few ways you can help protect your hands.

Apply plenty of sunscreen to your hands.

Allow enough time between application and hitting the water. You don’t want to wash it all off again. Sunscreen works well to extend the amount of time we can spend in the sun, but it does less helpful things to our paddle grip.

Fresh sunscreen will be really slippery on your paddle shaft, but there is an easy fix. At the water’s edge, grab a handful of sand and

rub it on the palms of your hands to remove any sunscreen there. Only scrub your palms though. When on the water, wash the sand off.

Wearing gloves will keep the sun off your hands and have the added bonus of protecting your hands against blisters. Paddle specific gloves are available and these may have long or short fingers.

Lastly, open palm gloves exist and these cover the top of your hands, while leaving the palm open to give the best feel of your paddle shaft. These are an inexpensive way to protect your hands without feeling too strange.

For those who plan on spending lots of time on the water over the summer holidays, please be safe out there. Wear your PFD, let someone know where you are going, carry a form of communication and check the forecast before you leave.

SALMON SEASON IS STARTING UP! Here is part of our huge range of Salmon catching lures. You will be able to catch more fish with our Innovative UV powder technology which all our coloured lures are coated with.

Also we have added a 43gm to our Custom Rocket range.

You now be able to get the amazing action in a lighter weight Custom Rocket.

These are great for getting just behind the breakers in the surf.

Do you want a

fishing kayak

Neil Watts - owner of Amazing Baits is an avid fisherman and he has designed his lures to catch fish.

this summer?

Large range in store including demo models - try before you buy

Follow Amazing Baits on Facebook and see how effective they really are. www.facebook.com/amazingbaits

Amazing Baits are available from your local tackle store, ask for them.

www.kayakhq.co.nz

3 Duncan St, Port Nelson

Phone: 539 4181

NEW DISTRIBUTORS WELCOME CALL Neil today 0272 008995 email: amazingbaits@gmail.com

17 HUNTING NEWS - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Two bucks called Cracker & Snorter

HUNTING NEWS

Ian Hadland

“You saw it first, so it’s your first shot,” Adrian insisted. The chamois was sky-lined on a rock and was suddenly so obvious you wonder why you hadn’t seen it with the naked eye. I’d already shot a few chamois but was still looking for a decent one in a winter cape for the wall. I scanned the mountainside to assess the route up to a shootable position before replying. It was scrubby, steep and ugly.

“But you haven’t shot a chamois yet Adrian, why don’t you go for it?” I said in an effort to sound more charitable than doubtful. Adrian wouldn’t have a bar of it - something about prior agreements - so I set off up the slope and he stayed put, binos and radio at the ready.

We had taken a full day of hiking to reach the Barrier Range tributary, so the early morning find was well earned reward for the cold uncomfortable sleep at the bushline flycamp. We were after tahr but thanks to unbeknown culling operations, sightings had

Ian closed the gap but the big buck saw him coming and was confused by the floating head - he was invisible from the neck down!

Adrian's first chamois buck was nothing to snort at.

been scarce.

I slogged up the hill with a view to assessing its trophy status before committing to the remainder of the climb. It was a respectable buck and as I closed the gap to 100m, the radio crackled the animal was onto me. He was staring directly in my direction. It was opportune timing as I was sidling around a rock ledge, which made a perfect rifle rest with a clear line to the animal. It dropped to a well-placed shot from the 7mm 08.

The animal was a cracker with hooks just over nine inches and all dressed in delightful winter coat. I’m not sure what it is with chamois compared to other big game but every joyous harvest is tinged with a bit of sadness for these pretty animals.

The radio blurted into action again. Adrian had spotted a mob of chamois on his side of the valley directly above him. I scanned

the hill and he was right, and one of them looked like a beauty. I periodically took a break from head skinning to watch his ascent towards them and keep him updated on their movements.

An hour later I saw Adrian lay down and get lined up on the mob. I was about to say on the radio the buck at the top of the group looked best when I saw it crumple - and then heard the unmistakable boom and echo of an unsilenced high powered rifle.

Adrian’s 300 Win Mag had hit its mark and he had opened his score sheet with a very tidy nine inch buck.

The radio went again.

“Well it ain’t a tahr but I ain’t complaining. He’s a snorter and it’s going on the wall.”

He was clearly chuffed and that sentence summed up the trip perfectly.

a pack to last you a lifetime

All bases covered with the Gunworks Suppressor Range, 35mm, 41mm & 50mm diameter

k2Quality Canvas packs & bags For The Serious Outdoors

k-2 Hunter

95 ltr external frame

INSIST ON For all your reloading components and ammunition: primers, projectiles &

brass. We’ll ship NZ wide!

Shop

Robbie Tiffen – Master Riflesmith online Professional Gunsmithing since 1983 Phone (03) 342 1001 9am-5pm Monday to Friday gunsmith@gunworks.co.nz • www.gunworks.co.nz

K-2

k-2 Alpine hunter 85 ltr internal frame with removable day pack alpine packs & Hunter packs school packs & canvas bags made tough by kiwis for Kiwis

5 year warranty For your local stockist visit our website

Call Marie now on 0220 740 319 email k24u@xtra.co.nz trade enquires Welcome

www.k-2antarcticproducts.co.nz

18 HUNTING NEWS - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Where wallabies are wronged Mike Wilton

Optically Speaking - with Ant Corke CHOOSING THE RIGHT MAGNIFICATION FOR YOUR THERMAL IMAGER When choosing a thermal imager, it is important to choose the correct lens for the intended purpose. A Pulsar Quantum Thermal Imager is perfect for spotting, identifying, and recovering animals. However, the question that our dealers are most frequently asked is, “Which model is right for me?”.

MYSTERY

ENVELOPE

WINNER

The Pulsar Quantum XQ Thermal Imager is fitted with a choice of three lenses, with focal lengths of 19mm, 38mm, and 50mm. The price difference for each model is the actual cost difference of the lens, as the higher magnification lenses are larger, and therefore more costly to manufacture as they are made from a very expensive material called Germanium.

Nicola about to prepare dinner.

I pulled our motorhome up on the edge of the DoC block and said to my wife, Nicola, “ Looks good!”

As the billy was boiling, shouts are coming from inside that a wallaby is bouncing along the edge of the stream we are parked beside.

Grabbing rifle, I race across the creek, up a slight hill scanning tussock bushes for wallaby.

“Can you see it?” I’m yelling back to the bus.

“No, it went up the creek.”

After 20 minutes no sign of tea, I am back for a cuppa.

After making a plan, we set off in the general direction of the lost wallaby, sighting plenty of sign. Light is fading, then it is all on - wallabies sighted. Slowly we stalk in on a buck feeding up on a face. Suddenly, a young doe presents itself about 20 metres away, so up with the SKS and, bang, meat for tea. I dress the hind legs out and we hit the bus by dark. Thin butterfly steaks sliced off, one minute on both sides: beautiful, great fun, great meat.

Morning is upon us as we head to a new spot - sun just touching the distant peaks. After an hour, one wallaby is seen about 250 metres away, but the wind’s not good; possible reason reason for poor sightings. Trying hard to keep good air in front, we press on very slowly.

“Shit,” Nicola whispers, “large one.”

“Shhhhh, these things don’t need hearing aids!”

Now over the last hollow, I am thinking where the hell is he? Trying hard to blend in with tussock bushes, I am scanning as much country as I can and see a small bird-like object on a tussock bush.

“Really,” I say, “it’s a bird.” I look again. Bang, down it goes. Not a bird, a nice dark coloured wallaby sporting a beautiful skin to take home.

“Sorry, hon’, I was wrong!”

Not something I say every day!

Advanced Archery are New Zealand’s specialists in Bow Hunting.

We have an extensive range of equipment and an experienced team.

Excitement never wanes with Bow Hunting START TODAY

In NELSON phone 0274 353 196

advancedarchery.co.nz

We have moved to a BIGGER and BETTER shop at Unit 18, 35 Normanby Road, Mt Eden

Shop ONLINE anytime.

Recapture the thrill and excitement of that first hunt again & again

Applying this principle to a Pulsar Quantum XQ Thermal Imager, the model choice can be selected as follows: Pulsar Quantum XQ19 This model has a 19mm focal length lens, and is considered a wide angle configuration. The magnification is 1.6x - 6.4x magnification.

This model is ideal for use at close to medium range, such as bush stalking and night hunting, when field-of-view is more important than magnification. The 1.6x magnification also enables a hunter to walk at night whilst looking through the thermal. The maximum distance for spotting deer is around 950 metres.

Pulsar Quantum XQ38 This thermal imager is our recommended model for general hunting. It has a 38mm focal length lens, with a magnification of 3.1x - 12.4x. This model is considered to have a ‘standard’ lens, which is ideal for spotting deer at up to 1.8km.

Pulsar Quantum XQ50 This model has a 50mm focal length lens, and is considered to be a telephoto configuration.

The magnification is 4.1x - 16.4x, and is ideal for spotting animals at greater distances, such as deer at 2.2km. This thermal imager is ideal for spotting animals lurking on the bush edge of distant hillsides.

Nicola pulls up beside me, “I think it is a wallaby’s ear!”

BOW HUNTING

AUCKLAND - Unit 18, 35 Normanby Rd, Mt Eden - 09 636 6359

A thermal imager is also known as an infrared camera, and like any camera, the focal length of the lens, for any given sensor size, determines both magnification and field-of-view. The shorter magnification produces a less magnified image, but displays a larger field-of-view, and can be considered as a wide angle lens. As the focal length of the lens is increased, the image becomes larger, and the field-of-view becomes narrower. A high focal length lens can be considered as a telephoto lens. This is an important consideration when choosing a

hunting thermal imager, as the type of lens fitted to the thermal must be chosen in accordance with the type of hunting that the thermal imager will be mainly used.

The Pulsar Quantum Thermal Imager is available with a choice of lenses.

All of the above information can be found on our website, or by visiting one of our nationwide dealers. Visit www.yukonoptics.co.nz for more information.

19 HUNTING NEWS - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Gigantic grunter explodes at shot My early-morning taxi is a red Hilux with a dog box on the deck. It pulls up at a spot far from civilisation, not at a shop nor a hospital and definitely not at a hotel. I grab my gear and two dogs from the box, then farewell the taxi driver. He’s a handsome fella and very likeable. We part with a kiss and mutual, “Good luck, happy hunting.”

Kim Swan

it’s a mob of pigs all snuggled together in their tussock bed. My shot is true and one fat young porker is down. The dogs grab the dying porker and I grab them - putting leads on them to prevent them from pursuing the fleeing mob into the maw of the raging storm.

While hubby goes his way, I go mine.

My way is up. A gradual chug that sees me ascend from valley floor to yonder ridge top. Open country, sub alpine, scattered matagouri, merino sheep, and red deer.

If I were a novice, I’d think there was pig sign too. Amidst the bracken fern in the gulch there are pocks of fresh earth.

The pocks are regularly spaced and round. Sherlock Self soon deduces these pocks, along with many others across the steep hillside, are where boulders large and small have bounced down the hill, displaced by yesterday’s earthquakes.

Mother Nature has literally thrown the toys out of the cot!

I crest the high ridge and find real pig sign but Mother Nature is about to pack another tantrum. Bearing down on me is a weather front of epic proportions. The impending storm does not make the sky ‘bruised black,’ it makes the sky, ‘did three rounds with Parker - no gloves,’ black. I murmur the ‘f word,’ three times, in quick succession. I wave my fist at Mother Nature, “damn you, I’ve just found pig sign!”

From the belly of the black comes a king-sized sheet of rain, a wall of water which progresses rapidly in my direction. Daylight fades to an eerie gray. The dogs won’t find a pig now, no ground scent, no air scent and, as the torrent begins to teem down, we can barely see. Loathed to give up, I trot along the game trails, peering intently into the gloom. Lightning bolts flick and falter, thunderclaps follow-up within seconds. I’d tell it to bugger-off but I have a hunch it will pay no heed to the puny human in its path.

In the tussock to my left I vaguely make out a very large, dark form. Bolt lopes past, he’s within 20 metres but the form remains motionless. My eyes are full of rainwater, eyebrows dripping, nose channeling a salty trickle onto my upper lip. I wipe my eyes, blink, and then I see it. I see the dark form move an ear!

I’ve got this .... er, no I haven’t.

My rifle scope, like my eyes, is full of water. It cannot blink and I’m so completely saturated I have nothing, not even my underpants, to wipe it with. I tip the scope one way, then the other to pour the water out. A quick glance reveals vague crosshairs. I semi-sight on the area of the form’s ear and shoot.

The large dark form is not a gigantic grunter,

BOOK REVIEW A BUNK FOR THE NIGHT A Guide to New Zealand’s Best Backcountry Huts

By Shaun Barnett, Rob Brown, Geoff Spearpoint Potton & Burton, $49.99 Reviewed by Lynnaire Johnston Intended as a complementary companion to the best-selling history of New Zealand’s back country huts, Shelter from the Storm, A Bunk for the Night is part guidebook, part travelogue, and part landscape photography.

Back country huts from every part of the country are included, with a brief list of their facilities, a photo showing the hut in its isolated setting, and a description of its location, history, and the tracks to take to get there.

This is not a book designed to be read from cover to cover. It is a book to be picked up and perused when planning a trip so you are prepared for what you will find when you reach your designated hut.

Take that Mother - I got a lead pill into a pig despite your best efforts to thwart me!

The fat young sow is just the type of pig I like for prime pork. And, as a bonus, I will get some financial reward for its head too. Despite being minus brain matter as a result of my lucky shot, Landcare Research will buy the head from me. Their agent will then dissect the glands in its jowls, throat, and neck to test for bovine tuberculosis.

With two miserable dogs huddling at my heel and rain hammering on my noggin, I tag the dead pig’s ear with its own personal bar code.

I tie blue tape to visually mark the spot. I wipe water from my eyes, squint and blink, peering intently at my GPS screen while I mark my location, along with the barcode number. Then I hunch over my camera, trying in vain to shield its lens from the downpour. Despite it being mid-morning, it’s so overcast I need to use the flash to illuminate the scene. Job done, outta here.

Yum-pig tied by her snout to a length of rope with a swivel-centre, I tow her enthusiastically.

I chafe and slosh back the way I came. The sow slides beautifully on the long wet grass - so do I, but not intentionally. Sometimes I bounce like earthquake-hurled boulders, sometimes I swan-dive.

New Zealand’s huts are gloriously diverse.

Some are modern, large, and well-equipped.

Others are tin shacks with corrugated iron roofs and few amenities. Some are on popular routes, others are in very isolated areas that can take days of walking to reach. Together, they form a part of our history that encompasses the full gamut of outdoor activities from hunting and fishing, gold mining and farming, to tramping and exploring.

The photos of the huts – exterior shots for the large part – are taken to show off their

settings. So, while the photos are small (often two to a page), we can clearly see the haunting beauty of our country through its lakes, rivers, mountains, and bush.

Deliberately or not, there are examples of how climate change is affecting even our own backyard. For instance, Ivory Lake Hut on the West Coast is perched on the side of a lake that is fed by meltwater from the surrounding Ivory Glacier. It was built to house scientific teams measuring and recording the glacier as part of international studies on the world’s climate. In just 20 years the glacier has retreated entirely out of the basin that forms the lake and today only a small patch of ice still exists. Along with the hut, which has proved more durable than the glacier itself.

Full of useful detail for those taking to the wilderness, A Bunk for the Night also doubles as a nice coffee table book, which means it would make a well-received Christmas present for any fan of the outdoors.

Deon Optical Design proudly design and build March Rifle Scopes Deon believes shooters deserve the best possible optics to succeed in all aspects of competition and in the most challenging of hunting situations.

There is a March Scope to match those requirements.

March rifle scopes are built to the highest optical standards possible and with our focus and attention to detail are the world leaders in rifle scope design.

Ph 021 225 5223 | www.facebook.com/MarchScopes www.marchscopes.co.nz | info@marchscopes.co.nz

The choice of world champions

For all my haste, I find myself bedraggled and alone at the valley floor so far from civilisation. The sun comes out and so does the GPS - Current Track - Save track - tick - data requirements for Landcare Research are now complete. The dogs and I shake our wet fur, then sit and steam and wait, and wait. Taxi!

Suprise her with something different with ...

No.1 Bridge Street, Nelson 03 548 4523 | www.glenjames.co.nz

20 HUNTING NEWS - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Ripe for a woman’s touch

Brothers in arms.

Dave McDonald

Having reached the ripe old age of 69, I was surprised when a new adventurous person came into my life.

Eager to learn as much as possible about hunting and fishing, this client was different, she is a woman. Glenys came fishing on my boat in March 2014. We went out to Rotoroa Island, in the Hauraki Gulf, and she not only caught most of the fish but did all her own baiting, unhooking, and gutting. On the way back, she confidently took the wheel while I cleaned the decks and boards.

I asked Glenys if she would like to try hunting and she lit up with the biggest smile.

“I would love it,” she replied.

I set up some targets in the field and supervised her shooting.

The first few shots missed the balloons 75 yards away, but then it was hit after hit.

We then sat in the fading sunlight and talked. Glenys had lead a sheltered life as an epileptic; Doctors convinced her parents she had a disability and was unlikely to ever achieve anything. She lived in a small room until she was thirty, when a visiting Aussie doctor heard about her by chance. He read the labels on her medications and had half of it stopped.

“The next day the sun came out,” she smiled that lovely smile.

Glenys kicked that door down and started rising early and power walking around the block to get her strength back. She took up horse riding and swimming, got her driver’s licence, passport, and traveled overseas. Glenys helped poor children in Fiji with schooling items and bought groceries for beggars in the towns.

She became a motivational speaker and has returned to Fiji 16 times.

Glenys now wanted to hunt so we made plans for her first rabbit shoot.

She arrived armed with bino’s and we skirted the local airport as the sun was rising. I loaded the rifle while she glassed the slight hill ahead.

“I spotted some!” she exclaimed.

I could see nothing but spring grass sparkling with the cold dew.

“Do you think you can hit one?” I handed her the rifle.

“I reckon,” she replied and spread her feet slightly to hold a steady stance.

Crack! Out of the wet grass leapt a rabbit I hadn’t seen.

“I could see its ears,” she quipped.

Crack shot that

Billy Barlow (9yrs)

Glenys with a fine spiker.

She shot four that morning and then wanted to hunt deer.

Glenys was a natural; an efficient stalker, always glassing before moving on, she spotted many deer before me.

This is one very unusual woman: she makes all her own clothes, has become a singer, cut CDs, and sings professionally at clubs, the RSA, and weddings. Now Glenys is my true friend and sometimes stays over. It’s nice to have a woman’s touch.

On Saturday Dad, my brother Sam, and I went hunting on Grandad’s farm. A week earlier I had just shot my first goat and was really keen to try and get a deer.

We went out and I tried to shoot a fallow deer. I thought I shot it but, unfortunately, I missed. We started to head back to the house, when I saw two red deer on a slip about 80 yds away. Dad gave me the 22-250. I put the safety off; dad was talking me through the shot and I was feeling a bit nervous.

I took the shot and saw the deer jump and run off into the pines. A few seconds later we heard some crashing and saw it roll down the hill a bit. I DID IT! I'd shot my first deer.

I raced up the hill to see the deer and dad dragged it into the open to get some photos. I was really stoked with myself and so was dad.

21 HUNTING NEWS - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

A singular

meathunting

S TO R Y

moment Daryl Crimp

“Daryl.”

You can tell a lot about a person’s tone. Tom’s voice was muted, the bass turned up and treble dialled down. It was a whisper but it wasn’t.

He meant to be heard but didn’t want his voice to carry. I looked up from unpacking the tent and noted his gaze.

It was a singular word that carried multiple meanings.

Deer.

Middle of the day.

What do I do?

I was incredulous at all of the above, but also because Willie Sage had just lifted the R44 Raven off the shingle creek bed moments earlier and the staccato pillow-punch of its rotors still echoed down valley.

with life skills, yearlings make easy pickings and are perfect for the larder; prime, lean, delicate, tasty, and young enough to be truly organic.

At 240 yards, Tom declined the shot so I assembled the suppressed .308 and sized up the situation. I’m a stalker not a sniper so the immediate imperative was to cut down the distance. Hunched over, I made a slow bold stalk out into the middle of the riverbed. If spotted, the hunched shape would prove less alarming than a stick man-shape, but the critical factor with all engagement is movement; keep it slow and fluid, and if spotted - freeze.

the Swarovski EL 10 x 42 binoculars Movement is a traitor on the hunt.

My watch said Willie had left less I’d sized up a dry gutter edged with and was gutted to find they must Inevitably, the yearling barked. than fifteen minutes ago. I turned and big ‘goolies’ that afforded a suitable have taken a knock and were showing Repeatedly. It was agitated and unsure wandered back to help Tom erect the bench rest and made it unnoticed, double vision. of what had given it fright. Patience tent. I glanced downstream, beyond covering 70m in plain sight. I draped was the soldier sitting next to me. It Hang on. the shingle, to a small clearing. the spare jacket It was early really was just a question of time; the I’d been carrying Two deer where once there was one.

December and Tom “Tom!” deer was going to show itself again Unequipped with life over a pre-chosen Jelinek and I, school The singular had become the plural. and it did.

Summer in the Back Country nestled onto a hunting buddies, I now focused my aim on the one skills, yearlings make rock, makeshift boulder Marlborough is an ideal time to had reunited for Stomping steps.

Head erect and alert, Join me on my next African safari experience true fair chase wilderness hunting experience. nearerand the bush edge, hoping toacollect seat, and readied easy pickings a meat mission. flicking this way and that.

The deer hunt for meat.

Food is plentiful the crack of the shot, the of Africa as both. we At hunt the mighty Bushveld of Botswana andinthe greatand Savannah of South Africa. the rifle: checked Spring comes late Let me share with you the magic stopped for long moments between the animals are out throughout top deer crumpled and rolled down scope power setting, in the back country - wondering. Then it took one step too the day. Contact Willie Sage at adjusted jacket for rifle the hill, spooking the second, which and coincided with many and exposed its flank.

Tasman Helicopters now to enjoy elevation, ensured the stock fitted snug ran off into a ‘five o’clock shadow’ of the fawn drop for red deer; when the At the shot it dropped and rolled. manuka on the face of a rocky knoll. an exceptional January or February to the shoulder, and anchored both hinds also kick off the yearlings to make way for newborns. Unequipped feet. Then I checked the range through Relaxed, I waited - motionless.

Just like the other. hunt. Check The Directory for details.

Hunt the Dark

Continent

Botswana South Africa Plus other destinations

True fair chase Wilderness Hunting Experience HEAR CRIMPY TALK ABOUT HIS AFRICAN EXPERIENCE - SCAN HERE

You will need to download a QR scanner app to view

Join me on my next African safari and experience a true fair chase wilderness hunting experience.

Let me share with you the magic of Africa as we hunt the mighty Bushveld of Botswana and the great Savannah of South Africa.

e jun

Australasian agent for

- Personalised individual hunts - Hunt with your mates

ow n g

in

.. R .

7 1 20

ing Tak

Bo

ngs oki

8

now

01 2 m e a jun or e f r t D unt f e e l CALL Crimpy thday h ce a t p P: 021 472 517 s n 10 e u n H o E: editor@thefishingpaper.co.nz

22 HUNTING NEWS - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Climb high a load of bull Steve McEwan

Having bagged a nice bull tahr in the Macaulay Valley earlier in the year, late November saw me back for a return visit and hopes of securing another good bull. The trip was beset by near disaster from the outset, but clouds are said to have silver linings, so sometimes you just have to suck it up.

Entering the Macaulay system, the braided river system appeared to be carry a bit of fresh, so I stopped at the first of five fords for a recce. In fact, I was so cautious I walked three of the worst fords to determine a safe route before poking the nose of the van into the flow. The worst three crossings we navigated without incident, so confidence rose to cocky on the meter and by the time I nosed into number five, I was already dreaming of big bulls.

Murphy had been busy with a shovel and had gouged out part of the ford so that the floating characteristics of the van were tested. Suddenly the beast lost traction and I was being carried by the current downstream. It was quite surprising just how watertight the van was, with only a trickle and ‘rising damp’ getting in. However, it soon became apparent that I had steerage and could go with the flow, so I held out some hope that I’d eventually drive out once I hit the shallows. Sadly, the van became stuck and I was marooned mid-current.

I’d taken the precaution of writing down the emergency

contact number given on a sign before entering the Macaulay and had a very long conversation with the ‘assistance’ on the other end. Basically they were busy and didn’t want to know, so I rang 111 and was put through to the police, who organised a tow truck from Fairlie.

It took two days to drain the sumps, dry the filters, and put her back together but at the turn of the key, the old van coughed, spluttered, and spat water but rumbled into life.

I was determined to get back to the Macaulay and make the hut by dark, so poked the snout upriver late in the evening. Driving up the riverbed, I noticed a big mob of tahr on a face low down.

The animals had dropped out of the bluffs quite late and were now only a couple of hundred metres above the valley floor, feeding

amongst the matagouri. Scanning through the bins, I picked out five good bulls that I reckoned would go 12” and one that looked exceptional, so I teased out a stalk up a gut that would bring me out close to the herd. I could have shot from the valley floor but didn’t want to risk losing an animal to the matagouri in the fading light - besides, I’m a stalker not a target shooter and the thrill for me is getting in close.

When I finally chose to reveal myself I was surprised to find myself 10m from the nearest bull, which was a good twelve, but the big boy was 30m further on and behind a clump of matagouri.

He was the one I wanted so I played the waiting game. Eventually he poked his nose out and fell to an easy shot. Bulls exploded in every direction and a few of them looked to be twelves. As I approached the monster, I was delighted to see a good 13” tahr ankles up. Then I spotted another hiding in the scrub not 10m away, so dropped that too. Regrettably it wasn’t one of the twelves but would be good eating anyway.

As the light bled out on a wonderful Macaulay evening, I couldn’t help wondering at the vagaries of hunting; disaster can have a flipside and you don’t always have to climb high for tahr.

23 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

One year, one lure, three 40lb trout!

Bryce Helms

Okay, so how much can YOU bench press?

The last twelve months has provided some of the most ridiculous fishing I could have imagined, with mid-November seeing my third 40lb brown of the season, all on exactly the same type of lure. This time last year I couldn’t have imagined landing even one fish in the 40lb-plus bracket let alone three of them, so it really has been a champagne year.

the ever-reliable lumo Soft 4Play.

The first of these came in December 2015, when I took a break in a ‘work’ trip and found myself night fishing in Ohau C. This fished absolutely scoffed the lumo Savage Gear Soft 4Play, and was comfortably the fattest fish I’ve ever seen, tipping the scales at a touch over 41lb. After a quick recovery, the giant brown charged off to keep growing.

The most recent fish was an extremely challenging one. The weather was atrocious, with howling winds and occasional downpours keeping everyone else inside. I decided to brave the elements and have a quick night fish, and the decision paid off almost instantly. After just a few minutes, the lumo Soft 4Play got inhaled and I came up tight on a very heavy fish, which immediately started viciously shaking its head to try and throw the lure. The fish then went absolutely berserk, taking off upstream rapidly before turning and charging straight back at me. The fish even jumped twice, which was one of the most impressive things I’ve ever seen!

Number two was particularly memorable, as this fish only narrowly missed out on breaking the world record for brown trout, falling an agonising 50g short of the mark.

This was one of the most intense fights I’ve ever had with a fish, with huge powerful runs forcing me to get very wet avoiding the cables. Landing the fish without a net was particularly difficult and I ended up having to get in the water, and throw it on the bank.

Once again, the lure that did the damage was

Once I eventually got the fish under control, a stalemate ensued for what felt like forever, with line gradually ticking off the little Okuma Inspira 30 as I put as much pressure as I dared over the Nanomatrix Canal rod.

Eventually the fish gave in and came to the net, and a quick weigh before it was released confirmed it as my third 40lb+ brown in under a year, a feat that I doubt I will be matching any time soon!

I should have flossed!

24 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

With Kaikoura reeling after such a catastrophic event, the lobstermen knew it was imperative to get back to business as usual. With time ticking and oil supplies to grease the bureaucratic wheels disrupted, Larnce Wichman describes how CRAMAC 5 pushed hard for…

Collaboration at the coalface able to be compared to previous harvests, indicating no appreciable effect on the lobster resource. This is excellent news for the region, which has suffered a commerce aneurysm due to the earthquake, and provides sound reason for the minister to allow the fishery opened on 21 December.

BUSINESS AS USUAL

Despite the catastrophic event, the lobster fishery seems healthy.

The Lobster Survey required we use vessels that had a minimum two-year history harvesting the same period, so catch comparisons could be made.

Approval was finally granted after ten days frantic work to commence the seven fishing days’ survey, which included having independent observers onboard.

At the eleventh hour, there were still critical issues to be resolved: insufficient diesel to run the survey needed sorting; bait, normally supplied by local fin fish vessels, now out of action because of ramp damage, was in short supply. Thanks to

Ngai Tahu Seafood Products, we were able to truck in three pallets on the third day when the inland road opened.

Due to a good run of weather, the survey ran smoothly, with all lobster caught and measured, returned. One thousand of these were tagged for monitoring future growth rates and coastal migration, and observers collected blood samples so NIWA could analyse lobster conditions. The BRI or Blood Refractometer Index ultimately indicate the lobster were healthy.

Data from the survey was robust and was

Collaboration between NZ RLIC, CRAMAC 5, MPI, and NIWA was key to mapping the situation and getting a fix on lobster status so quickly. We all owe the six vessel owners immense gratitude for stepping forward and giving time, vessels, expertise, and knowledge, at the expense of their families, so this could be achieved so seamlessly. Commercial has dodged a bullet; had ACE not been able to have been caught this year, the transfer of effort and increased pressure on other locations would have created massive problems.

Once roads are open, we hope amateur fishers and others will support Kaikoura over the summer, as you have done for generations. After such a calamitous period, Kaikoura needs you and business as usual.

TAG LARNCE NEXT

The lobstermen would be grateful if recreational fishers could participate in our tagging programme. If you catch a lobster with a tag located between the carapace

(body) and tail could you please write down the location, depth, tag number and send that to larnce@burkhart-fish.co.nz, or drop the information off to the local MPI Compliance office. This information will help all of us. To gather more data on the tagged lobster, if it was returned to sea after the data is collected, we will keep monitoring that lobster into the future. In the past, we have had data from lobster that have been tagged for longer than six years: more about that in a future article.

But wait there is more: CRAMAC 5 is very aware the survey could not take account of the early year class of lobster, so we will be monitoring our logbook data very closely over the next three-to-four years to see if any year class is missing due to the earthquake. If a gap appears, this will signal a warning that we will need to look hard at how we manage the future of the CRA 5 lobster resource. To help evaluate this, CRAMAC 5 is funding four new sets of puerulus collectors, to put out along our coast to monitor lobster settlement.

These collectors are checked monthly and will help indicate the shape of our future resource and better enable us to assess the status of lobster in three-to-four years.

Happy fishing.

The uplifting wasn't uplifting for the paua men.

On 1 October paua fishermen around New Zealand started their season.

Six weeks later, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake dealt them a vicious blow. It had a devastating effect on the fishery, killing hundreds of thousands of paua and, in some places, uplifting the Kaikoura coastline by 5.5 metres.

Some pockets suffered total devastation: adult and juvenile paua wiped out, destroying the whole reproductive cycle from the inner shore cryptic habitat where juveniles live in the dark, to offshore boulders occupied by adults. Repercussions for commercial, recreational, and Iwi could be dire but, as Barry Chandler explains, there is a long term solution.

The paua future post quake To see the way forward, we need to understand the structure of the commercial paua industry, which is divided into seven quota management areas or QMAs. The industry is managed by its own body, the Paua Industry Council, and each of the seven areas has its own management group called a

Pauamac. Funding to run these comes directly from quota owners. Each area is allocated an Annual Catch Entitlement (ACE) by MPI. Of the seven areas, Paua3 - Rangitata River to Clarence River - and Paua7 Clarence River to Kahurangi Lighthouse

Paua left high and dry.

on the West Coast were impacted by the earthquake, with most of the destruction around the Kaikoura coastline.

GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

The Government was quick to react, invoking Section 16 of the Fisheries Act to place a temporary closure over the affected areas. Here the solution begins: 1. This closure could be extended to all fishermen for up to a year to let a reproductive cycle continue uninterrupted, so spawning larvae can settle.

2. An extension to this closure could continue until scientists prove that the juvenile biomass has recovered.

3. The Government could fund a reseeding operation.

4. Since the earthquake, the commercial fishermen have already agreed to shelve 45% of ACE across both regions that

otherwise would have been caught in the affected area. This amounts to a considerable quantity of ACE not harvested, and will not be caught outside the affected area; there will be no transfer of pressure.

Furthermore, Paua7 has already previously taken substantial cuts in their Total Allowable Commercial Catch. Under their own management regime, Paua7 recognised the fishery was stressed and had witnessed the impact of transferring catches to other areas, so voluntarily implemented cuts in order to save the fishery. They don’t want to see this happen again and the earthquake has heightened commercial’s aim to see the fishery rebuilt. This can only happen with the co-operation of all sectors: a willingness to unite and sacrifice now, will leave a healthy fishery for our next generation.

25 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Burnt fingers frozen arse Frank Cartwright

Are you interested a maritime career?

Coastguard Boating Education has recently been appointed as an approved Training Provider for the NZQA Certificate, in Domestic Maritime Operations (CIDMO). This qualification is primarily aimed at those who intend to go on to gain the Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) licence Skipper Restricted Limits CIDMO is an 85 credit programme of study applicable to any person wishing to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to be the master of a vessel of up to 12 metres (24 metres with appropriate endorsements) in length overall, carrying up to 19 passengers (more with endorsement) within New Zealand restricted limits.

Our programme consists of eight individual modules, combined with completion of the MNZ Training Record Book (TRB) as a means of verifying experience and documenting your involvement in a wide range of practical on-board tasks. Successful

completion of the qualification allows you to apply to Maritime New Zealand and sit your oral exam for the Skipper Restricted Limits Certificate of Competency.

We offer a unique modular approach that combines convenient classroom study where available with home study. This allows you to complete the course at your own speed and at times that suit your lifestyle and other commitments.

Holders of an SRL Certificate of Competency may be sought after employees in the following industries: Harbour Masters, Maritime Police, Department of Conservation, Niwa, Search and Rescue, Coastguard, jet boat tours, aquaculture, water taxis, and the fishing industry.

For more information please visit the ‘Commercial’ tab on our website, or contact Jason Rowledge on 0800 40 80 90 www.boatingeducation.org.nz/ commercial

Over the last few seasons whenever I ventured out for a flick with my fly rod I deliberately left my state-of-the-art wading staff at home. It had outlived its usefulness because I was no longer confident about wading in water any deeper than one metre and if it was fast flowing, then it was a no-go zone as far as I was concerned, staff or no staff!

Once upon a time in my younger and fitter days, I regularly used wading staffs to assist safe fording in fast-flowing streams, thankful for the benefit of having a ‘third leg’ to provide stability. Season after season my staffs were rude lengths of driftwood picked up off the riverbank, or cut from scrub and left in a prominent spot after fording a stream for other anglers to use. I was always wary of dead willow. It has a lamentable tendency to fracture without warning. Beware!

From riverside flotsam to rangoon cane was the next step. Cane was light, incredibly strong and never let me down in all the years I relied on it but it did have a downside. At a metre long it lacked true portability and very annoyingly, floated downstream on its lanyard, which was a real nark when playing or netting a trout midstream. Then I spied a nice, light, telescopic wading staff in a sports store and promptly purchased it and it gave excellent service until being retired from active service.

Several years ago a Gore-based fishing mate and I rendezvoused at the upper Oreti River for a morning’s fish and as we were rigging up I noticed he had a telescopic wading staff clipped to his belt. I gently chided him about it because he had always maintained wading staffs were a waste of time for experienced anglers. However, following a spell of ill health, which had left him unsteady on his feet, my mate confessed he had relented

and acquired a staff ‘just to keep the missus happy.’

We made our way directly to a broad, shallow ford and my mate extended his staff before confidently stepping off the bank. I kept discretely to the rear, gently following up in case he faltered but he was doing fine in the knee deep water. After we had passed the halfway mark, I moved ahead to be ready to extend my hand to help haul him up the bank when I heard an enormous splash followed by a torrent of colourful language.

I turned around and there was my mate spluttering and floundering in very chilly water. Overcome with laughter I managed to gasp, “Did you drop your wading staff?”

“No!” he roared. “I fell over the bloody thing!”

Helping him to his feet, I picked up his mortally damaged wading staff and retreated to the comfort of our vehicle. After a change of clothes and a warming cuppa from my thermos, he relaxed and eventually saw the funny side of his mishap but never again did he carry a wading staff. As he put it, “I got my fingers burned and my arse frozen!”

The following year I was in Gore and popped in to see him. As I was making my way up his garden path, I paused to admire a standard rose when I noticed it was supported by a blue anodised pole. Curiosity got the better of me and closer inspection confirmed it was the very staff my mate had come to grief on, his once proud possession now subjected to garden stake status.

Over a convivial glass of best malt we reminisced about fly fishing adventures over the years but my mate carefully avoided making the least mention of his Oreti ducking. Embarrassment is a very personal thing which can have lasting consequences!

Marine Radio Operator Wanted Nelson Marine Radio Association requires another operator to join our friendly team and help operate our marine radio services.

If you have boating experience, knowledge of the local marine environment, an interest in safety, enthusiasm and desire to help, and a current VHF Operator License, contact us now. If you do not have a current VHF Operator License but would like to contribute to this vital and rewarding service, we can assist with training for your license.

We do three schedules daily, 7 days a week, with updated weather information and any current navigation warnings broadcast on those schedules. Three operators at present each work a week schedule and have two off.

The position provides social engagement, a professional purpose, a sense of responsibility, and tremendous satisfaction. It requires a level of commitment that would suit a retired or semi-retired person with a passion for radio, boating, people, and safety.

For further details email nelson.marine.radio@gmail.com or phone 03 528 7629.

Nelson Marine Radio is a user pays facility that controls and operates VHF Channels 28 and 60 in the Nelson Bays area of New Zealand.

Our service is for fishermen, recreational fishermen, pleasure craft ,and any other commercial sea users. We currently have a membership of 300 who operate all types of vessels from all around our region. We provide up to date weather forecasts, tidal

predictions, navigational warnings, and trip and position reports from vessels on all our daily scheduled transmissions.

Nelson Marine Radio is also involved in Search and Rescue at sea, as well as assisting the NZ Police and Coastguard.

This ad is proudly sponsored by The Fishing Paper & Hunting News - read us online and in print www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Nelson Marine Radio Association - owned and operated by boaties, for boaties - JOIN TODAY! Private members $58; commercial $74 p.a Join your fellow boaties in maintaining this vital facility Ph 03 528 7629 now.

26 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

Sky, sea & snapper stars

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

STORY

Paul Drummond

I

t was the late redemption of a 50th birthday gift and bravado of multiple wines that committed the Heywards and Drummonds to an overnight fishing excursion into the Kenepuru Sound.

It had been ten years ago, accompanied with young children and fellow Dawnbreakers, that last saw all of us get up so early for fishing in the Kenepuru.

We picked the only two day window that was free of work, pre-Christmas commitments, and the last week for Dave to use his voucher at Raetihi Lodge - a beautiful boutique yet unpretentious lodge set in serene surrounds.

The wind dropped, the sky cleared, and the boat started first time, and we had our lines in and berley flowing by 8.00am. However, with the fishing calendar and tides both unfavourable, also with poor reports of recent fishing in the Kenepuru, our expectations were low. The sea flattened, the tide turned, and current was running. The stars were aligning, and our anxious stares were fixed on rod tips in anticipation of the scream of line.

Sandy Heyward with an absolute thumper Raetihi Red.

sang! We pulled up all the other lines and berley rope, and nervously watched as Sandy allowed the fish to run before setting the hook. The rod bucked and the fish was on! As line continued to peel, we began to guess what we had. We knew it was big, as Sandy struggled to keep balance. It would slow and then power up with renewed vigour, so we thought perhaps ray or shark. It then swam shallow under the boat.

There was lots of positive yelling of support and eager eyes searching for first glimpses of colour.

Then came the exclamation, “Oh my God, it’s huge, get the net!”

The net was too small so was used as leverage to pick the giant snapper up and land it on the boat. Everyone was yelling and jumping, disbelieving of the size of the monster. It was striking with its massive girth, enormous head, and unusual knob! The ten minute tussle had taken its toll and the snapper wasn’t in condition for release; probably also scared witless by our noise.

rod down, the line tension is low and she lets the fish run.

Ignoring the plentiful advice from the blokes, Sue battled on.

She was using light gear with a ledger rig and it took several frantic runs and surges to tame the huge fish. Sue was dancing across the boat as it zig and zagged under us. The net was poised. Then we saw a flash of white colour and Sue called, “It’s a ray!”, but Dave yelled, “It’s a bloody snapper!”

It was netted amidst more cheering and yelling, and estimated at 20lb, before being successfully released.

Our stay at the Lodge capped off an amazing day on the water. Raetihi is truly a jewel in the Marlborough Sound’s crown: the location, food, service, and hospitality was extraordinary - such a marvellous place that contributed to two very special days. The planets aligned, the sky and sea cooperated, and it was the girls who were the stars!

Sandy struggled to hold her prize and, with flat batteries in the scales, we guesstimated its weight at 25lb but possibly closer to 30lb!

Sue demonstrates the 'grip & grimace' shot.

A good-sized gurnard came aboard and after two hours we considered moving for the remainder of the bite time. After a frenzied run that snagged and broke off, we sensed that maybe something worthwhile was below us. Sandy’s line then

After catching one more snapper, we moved closer to Raetihi Lodge and let loose the remaining berley. Without notice, Sue’s reel screamed. Sue has a style all of her own: aims the

The Drummonds and Heywards soak up the ambience of Raetihi Lodge.

27 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

What a trout’s tag or ‘fin clip’ tells us So you’re new to trout fishing and see that the lovely rainbow you’ve hauled in has had a fin or two clipped off.

Perhaps it was fighting another fish in the spawning season, you might think, as you’ve heard that the males do battle it out.

Or perhaps you’re well aware that Eastern Fish & Game does clip the fins of fish it is releasing into the Rotorua lakes, and sometimes tag them…but you’re not quite sure why or what the ‘clip pattern’ really means.

Let’s look at a trout caught by Roger the Angler in Lake Rotoiti, Rotorua, and try and explain these tracking methods and why the fish we raise in our Fish & Game hatcheries are all either clipped or a tag is attached to their back (painlessly under sedation, of course).

Roger caught his rainbow harling on the 21st of October 2016 just after the opening (we’ll say he caught it then for the purpose of this explanation). It was 535mm long, 2kg and the tag was from the ‘15R’ series. (Each tag group has a number and letter corresponding to a specific release)

of 0.66mm per day. As the trout are about one year-old on release, this puts Roger’s trout at around two years and three months-old.

We use this information to plot growth trends over time to help keep track of any changes in the fishery. We also take note of the fishing method Roger used to catch his fish, as this can provide us with valuable clues to trends around various techniques and their success rates on the lakes. We’ll post this information to Roger showing how his fish did versus the others released at the same time, and put him in the draw to win one of 20 free licences for the following trout season.

Mark Sherburn

Fin Marking - Rotorua Lakes Each and every fish which leaves the hatchery is marked with a fin clip. This enables our field staff to identify them later when they turn up as part of an angler’s catch. This monitoring process plays a key role in our managing of the fishery. Trout of about 6 month of age have a pelvic fin, or pelvic and adipose fin removed under sedation. In total our staff clip over 100,000 fins with scissors!

Ask us for a liberation schedule detailing fish quantities, fin clips and points of liberation

For cost and efficiency reasons, not all trout are tagged however; by far the majority are fin clipped or ‘marked’ as it’s known. This is done as we load the fish ‘live trout truck’; each baby trout is sedated and has one or more of its fins removed with scissors.

By taking note of which fins are clipped you can determine yourself how old your fish is, and therefore how much it has grown in that time, even if you intend to release it. When determining left or right, it is always the fish’s left or right, not yours.

In an even year (say 2016): From our fish release (‘liberation’) records we can tell that Roger’s trout was released on the 6th of May 2015, at Ruato Bay and it was about 180mm in length. This autumn liberation totalled 5,500 rainbow trout – 500 of which were tagged – and one of them was Roger’s!

This tells us that Roger’s trout was ‘at large’ 534 days and grew 355mm over that time. On average, that’s a growth rate

• The right pelvic clips (Rp) are 1, 3 or 5 years old • The left pelvic clips (Lp) are 2 or 4 years old If you catch a trout in an odd year (say 2017), the clips are as follows: • The left pelvic clips (Lp) are 1, 3 or 5 years-old • The right pelvic clips (Rp) are 2 or 4 years old

Clipping a young sedated trout before it’s journey to a lake to be released.

If the pelvic and the adipose fins are clipped, it means it was liberated in autumn, if just the pelvic is clipped - then it was released in spring. Some lakes have a small number of adipose only clipped and these are summer (February) releases. Of course, in this case it’s impossible to tell their age so we rely on tagged trout for these releases.

Please remember to record the tag number, date caught and details of the fish and send them into Fish & Game along with the tag and your contact details.

The information is vitally important for managing the trout fishery. Also don’t forget to Brag Your Catch on the Fish & Game website!

Keep safe this SUMMER WE HIRE & SELL A FULL RANGE OF LIFE JACKETS & WATER TOYS Come in & have a look at our range of PLB’s, hand-held radios, flares & other safety equipment

38 Grove Road, Blenheim - 03 578 9960 jhendersons@xtra.co.nz • facebook.com/HendersonsLtd

28 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

factory

direct

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

sales

From Sinker to Smoker

By Ron Prestage

Hooked for life?

PRICE INCREASE With natural disasters adding to freight costs as well as inflation we are overdue for a price increase

This photograph of Glen epitomises the thrill of the catch!

HOWEVER For ALL boat orders before end of January 2017 we will not only honour existing prices, but gift a ham or turkey!

Enquire now about ALL MODELS. Come see us at 26 Echodale Place, Stoke

www.osprey.co.nz - ph: 03 548 7887

OUTBOARD SALES AND SERVICE NEW AND SECOND HAND MOTORS SERVICING ALL MAKES AND MODELS

So pleased to recently see how well Glen Cranshaw, a junior member of the Canterbury Surfcasting Club is doing with his surfcasting. Glen is 10-years-old and started fishing with his dad Billy about four years ago. Kahawai was Glen’s most common catch on his small Kilwell LED Disco Stix rod and reel combo.

For his birthday this year he got a Shimano Alivio 6000 and 7ft rod set. On Saturday, 3 December, father and son went out to Canterbury’s Bailey’s Beach. Glen’s Shimano reel was teamed with a vintage 12ft Kilwell Surf King to better his chances in the surf.

www.theoutboardshop.co.nz

Agent for

Phone (03) 5487858 • Mobile (027) 7474566 26 Echodale Place, Stoke

for sale

An elephant fish took a liking to his bait and a great battle ensued with the ele’ leaping out of the water several times before it was beached in all its glistening glory. Glen’s words sum it up. “It was amazing and fun.”

Glen’s experience with this outstanding catch has reinforced an interest already several years old. I wonder if he will be like me and be hooked for life! His story brought memories flooding back of my fishing history.

I well remember the first fish I caught, a yellow eye mullet or ‘herring’ as we called them back then. I pulled it from the Orowaiti River in Westport when a teenaged neighbour took me fishing for the first time. I can still recall the first ever bite on my hand line. I’ve never stopped fishing since that day!

From hand lining off the Orowaiti River for yellow eye mullet and kahawai, from lines floated down the Buller River from off the bridge, I progressed to surfcasting. Rangoon cane rods were soon replaced by fibreglass ones before the modern developments of graphite glass, carbon fibre and nano technology.

After catching a big one from the Buller River Tiphead, snapper has always been my prime target and the Mokihinui Fishing Competition my favourite fishing event. The beaches of the West Coast are not easy to fish. They certainly challenge you and that’s what most fishers like.

Well done Glen on your fine catch, perhaps the start of an enjoyable and rewarding fishing life. I wish you well.

The old Mainland cheese ad coined the adage ‘good things take time.’

The theme of something maturing over time can equally apply to ideas and for Ron Prestage, Deputy Editor of The Fishing Paper & Hunting News, the fermentation process resulted in a delightful children’s book with a companion CD. To find out more about it we met him…

Down at the Rocky Shore OSPREY 650 HT 2009 2011 Yamaha 4 stroke 200hp with cover • • • • • • • • • • •

Stainless prop 435 hours White vinyl wrap Watercraft tandem axle braked trailer Underfloor and under seat storage 180 litre fuel tank Maxwell auto winch Twin burner gas cooker 2kg bottle Electric flush toilet Bunk extensions sleeps 3 Lockable sliding door Red LED gunwale and bait board lights

• • • • • • • • •

Interior and deck lights Twin batteries deep cycle Deck wash Digital gauges Marine radio JVC head unit, speakers in and out Furuno tz14 touch fish finder GPS/radar 1kw t260 transducer Lowrance touch 7’’ chart plotter full NZ chart

The song started life when I was the principal at Enner Glynn School and one of our science studies was the rocky shore. We always liked to put a bit of fun into our work and broaden our studies by writing poems and songs and creating art and craft work and this song is one of the results. I think the catchy tune reflects my long held interest in folk, country and Irish music.

Polly Rabbits the illustrator did a marvellous job bringing the song to the printed page. Roger Lusby, the recording producer’s input and expertise has resulted in a great CD. The music on the CD has been greatly enhanced by the fantastic violin playing of Denise Glover. The Copy Press of Nelson printed the book as I was always keen to keep all the production in our hometown, Nelson.

Rockin Ron rips up the Rocky Shore.

Engine, boat and trailer always gets Salt-Away after every use.

Very well looked after, polished regularly.

Fantastic stable family/boys trip day and weekender boat, but it's time to upgrade, no time wasters. Any questions just ask.

027 246 5378 - bri.andy@xtra.co.nz

- Scan here

Without the class of 2016 at Richmond Montessori and the enthusiasm of Head Directress Niluckshi Mark there would be no book. Their enthusiasm and ability is what brought the concept to life.

I hope this has been a positive and memorable experience for these fine young children. One I hope to share with as many children as I can.

Down at the Rocky Shore book/CD is a fun, science, music, and language resource for preschool and primary school children.

Twenty pages beautifully illustrated by Polly. CD included. Complete with glossary and notes on conservation. And music to help you strum along on guitar or ukulele. Enjoy!

You can purchase the book and CD on TradeMe. Just search for “Down at the Rocky Shore”.

29 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

Max the thrill not the kill

Marty Bowers Senior Fisheries Analyst - Recreational Fishing Team

The sustainability of fish stocks is important for all New Zealanders. All fishers are responsible for helping to maintain our fish stocks for future generations.

Recreational fishers can play their part by only taking the fish that they absolutely need for a feed. Fish that are above the minimum legal size should be kept and undersized fish should be returned carefully.

Most recreational fishers understand the rules and, overall, compliance figures are high, so what else can recreational fishers do help maintain healthy fish stocks?

Avoid catching undersized fish There are a vast array of hook types and sizes available in New Zealand and it can be confusing trying to figure out what to buy.

MPI recommends matching your hook size to your target species. Using big hooks reduces the chance of an undersized fish managing to get its mouth around the hook. Barbless circle hooks significantly reduce gut hooking and make releasing unwanted fish in the water much easier. Even though a gut hooked fish might appear healthy and swim away, the internal damage it causes increases the chance the fish will die later.

If you find yourself continuing to catch undersized fish it’s best to move to another spot.

Don’t high grade There are no restrictions on what fish recreational fishers can legally return to the sea.

In the SNA 1 fishery, recreational fishers return one fish for every one fish they keep; so, for someone keeping their bag limit of

seven snapper in SNA 1, they are probably really catching fourteen fish and returning seven.

The problem with returning fish is that not all fish released alive survive. As fish are reeled in, the rapid decrease in pressure causes gas to expand inside their bodies.

This is why when some fish are landed their eyes are popping out or their stomach has expanded into their mouth. The technical term for this is barotrauma.

In one study from Australia, 100% of fish hauled up from 20m showed some sign of barotrauma. Of these fish, 75% showed the following three signs at the same time: the stomach expanding into the mouth, swelling around the anal cavity due to internal bloating, and the colon extending out past the anal cavity. Fortunately, signs of barotrauma don’t always mean a fish will die.

Based on the 2011-2012 national panel survey and estimated mortality figures, recreational fishers kill between 300,000 and 900,000 snapper in SNA1 through returning fish. This is in addition to the fish that they take home.

Of fish that are released and survive, there may be damage to their ability to breed for the next season at least, especially fish caught and released during the spawning season.

Their enlarged gonads allow less space for the swim bladder to expand as they are reeled up from depth.

Depth matters Snapper released after being caught in deep water have a much higher chance of dying than those caught in shallow water. Research shows that more than half of all snapper caught in water deeper than 45 metres and then released will die.

Handle fish correctly We understand that photographing big fish to share with friends and family is a big part of recreational fishing. Many fishers then go on to release these fish with the idea that they will live to breed another day. The science on whether this is helpful for fish stocks is not clear cut.

If you are releasing fish there are things you can do to increase the chance of that fish

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Releasing fish may have repercussions.

surviving.

• Make sure your hands are wet.

• Don’t lift the fish by the tail as this can dislocate the spine.

• Hold one hand under the jaw.

• Never insert your fingers under the gill plate as fish gills are damaged easily.

• If the gills are damaged, or even touched, the fish will struggle to breathe and there is a high likelihood it will bleed out and die.

• Hold your other hand behind the anal cavity.

• Fish organs are largely unprotected in the gut cavity. Holding fish around the belly can cause internal damage to organs, especially enlarged gonads during the breeding season.

• Make sure that any fish returned is caught in less than 30 metres of water to increase the likelihood of survival.

• Return fish as quickly as possible.

Catch fish not birds It is well known that seabirds are natures fish finders. Large works ups can provide great fishing but they also increase the risk of catching seabirds. Keeping the deck clean and putting bait scraps and fish waste in covered containers provides less of a visual incentive

for birds to follow your boat.

Seabirds mostly fish within six metres of the surface. Sink your bait quickly out of this danger zone.

Make sure your berley containers are set well below the area where birds can dive. The less fish waste in the water then the less incentive for birds to hang around.

Deck hoses and water pistols can be used to scare birds away from bait when setting and retrieving your gear. Aim beside the birds and not directly at them.

Move on If you are catching lots of undersize fish or are being hassled by seabirds it is best just to move on.

Birds are likely to catch and eat returned undersize fish so it is best to avoid this situation altogether. Following this advice and keeping up to date with the latest rules and any regulation changes is good for the fish and will help ensure you have an enjoyable and productive summer.

WHO ARE YOU KIDDING? It’s no joke when you catch undersized fish. Play by the rules of size. Make sure your catch is a keeper.

Check the rules at www.mpi.govt.nz/ fishingrules, download the New Zealand fishing rules app or free text “fish” to 9889.

30 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

Win a Crimpy's

Mystery Envelope Crimpy has a bunch of Mystery Envelopes to give away so here’s your chance to win:

Send in your fishing or hunting story, together with one or two high resolution jpeg pictures, and, if published, you win an envelope!

Stories don’t have to be super long but a good ‘cup of coffee read’ - ideally between 200 to 500 words and capture the essence and excitement of the moment. Check out stories in the paper for ideas.

The stories don’t have to be about mega monster fish or huge antlered stags either - we just want good yarns about what you guys are doing.

If you don’t have a story - don’t let that stop you.

Write about a friend or neighbour who has had some success lately. And if you are not a confident writer, just have a go - Crimpy has a knack of making you look magic in print.

Wonder what’s in the post?

There’s only one way to find out - put pen to paper now!

Send to: editor@thefishingpaper.co.nz or message Crimpy on FB.

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Day of firsts rigged Jared Hagan

With a surfcasting mission planned for Guy Fawkes, we took the homemade nets out a few days before and got a stash of paddle crab - the ultimate bait Oamaru way for rig.

It was the classic Kiwi event: big bonfire down at Craig’s Beach, sausages and steak sizzling away to feed the five kids and eight adult kids, rods prickling out along the beach, and fireworks after dark. I’d bought my partner, Jackie Martyn, a new surfcaster for her birthday a few weeks back, so she was fired up and ready to deal to the world. The rig I use is really basic: a heavy duty clip at the end of the main line, with two steel traces running off the clip - one holding a breakaway sinker and the other a 8/0 circle hook. The crab is held more securely in place with a rubberband.

Well, the night belonged to the birthday girl, because she got her wish. Her rod folded in an enormous bend and the fight was on. These rig are powerful fish and this one dished up the dirt for poor Jackie, but she’s not one to be messed with. After a good stoush, she got the better of the rig and beached it. Her first rig and the first fish on the new rod, and it was a thumper at 17lb. She was stoked. But it got better.

Jackie was fishing alongside her brother, Brent, who normally targets monster canal fish, and there is a bit of sibling rivalry going on amongst these two; Brent always manages to out fish her.

However, this day the tide changed and, while Brent was also excited to catch his first rig, it came in second best at 14lb!

It really was a day of firsts for Jackie!

Of course, Brent thought the whole thing was rigged!

Jackie and brother, Brent, compare rigs!

Bait in a bucket... lunch in da box!

Price drop on LOWRANCE® HDS Gen3 SEDDONVILLE HOTEL & MOTEL UNITS Park-over property for campervans Motel units

Meals & Takeaways Open 7 days Dairy, Open 7 days

OLD GHOST ROAD

Free car parking & bike wash area 1 Queen St, Seddonville, Ph 03 782 1828 info@seddonvillehotel.co.nz

A price drop across Lowrance’s HDS Gen 3 range of multi-function displays sees savings of $300, $400, and $500 on the 7, 9 and 12 inch models respectively, regardless of whether purchasing a head unit only or package optioned with transducers.

HDS Gen3 combines a fast processor with enhanced built in fishfinder and chartplotter and superior target separation through CHIRP, StructureScan® HD, and StructureScan 3D sonar imaging, which enables a distinct view of fish holding near the bottom and structure.

HDS Gen3 is full of easy to learn user

friendly features: multi-touch display, full keypad operation, instinctive icondriven commands, scrolling menus, cursor assist, snap-to setting marker, and preview panes with quick touch side bars, which make operation similar to that of a smartphone or tablet.

HDS Gen3 displays network together,

so multiple units may be employed at the helm to allow full screen sonar and chart, or additional units on a casting deck. This system also offers full boat integration, with electric trolling-motor, outboard motor, and entire electronics control achievable through one integrated HDS Gen3 system.

$2995 inc Gst comes with a free helmet 49cc, 4-stroke, 1-cylinder engine with a performance-enhancing cylinder provides smooth, quiet and powerful output.

An easy-to-operate CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) makes more torque available at a lower speed for easy control and lets the engine run slower for smooth, quiet performance at the cruise.

A simple screw-type throttle limiter allows speed and power to be adjusted to suit the rider’s ability.

The Constant Angle Knife Sharpening System

PRECISION SERIES The indexed rotating clamping system 3 angle adjustments 12˚, 20˚, 25˚.

Your knife is always in the same place.

High grade stainless steel, hygienic, easy care.

Deluxe precision kit pictured

Talk to the manufacturer toll free

0800 175 720

See our website for the full range

www.scarysharp.co.nz

North Canterbury’s Suzuki Dealer

Wacka Murphy

Markham St, Amberley Ph 03 314 0132

By Daryl Crimp

31 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Travels of Gurr, Little Gurr, and Bigger Gurr (Part 2)

The secret of Bug Lake The floatplane landed and motored to where a small stream left the lake and headed down to the salt water. Another floatplane was pulled up on the beach; they turned out to be friends of Jay and had had limited out already.

I was keen to continue fly-fishing so put the 9 weight up again; the boys went back to the spinning rods. It turns out the secret to Bug Lake is there are no streams entering the lake big enough for the salmon to spawn so, having run up from the saltwater, most spawn in the lake itself. We could see the red bodies of the sockeye salmon further out in the lake and dark shadows of silver salmon beneath the surface, where the beach shelved into deeper water. The other not so secret was how the lake got it’s

Little Gurr with silver mined from the lake

N

EM EW D

name… you get one guess!

In all my Alaskan fishing, I had never worn a bug net before, but this was something special. Once I’d ingested a couple of bugs just by opening my mouth… I gave up and put one on.

The boys were happily playing fish even before I’d tied a fly onto my leader.

Jay suggested we try a couple of the pools in the stream exiting the lake, as he thought it more likely I’d be able to get them on a fly. Only problem was, the vegetation came right down to the stream, making moving up and down quite interesting. The overhanging vegetation also did not allow room for a back-cast.

I was already prepared for this having been practising single handed spey casting before the trip, so it was not too difficult to get into a position to cast and swing the fly through the pool. Having Jay spot for me made it even easier and after a few casts to get the range and right swing, we hooked the first fish.

It had two choices: upstream or down.

It chose a third, and stayed in the pool.

Round and round it went, not really taking much line but quite determined not to give up quietly. Jay put the oversized net in the water and, as the fish came round again for the umpteenth time, I lifted its head and Jay netted it.

What a fish. It got knocked on the head and stashed on the bank, while we went looking for another, the pool now devoid of fish. All the excitement had cleared them out. We slipped and slid down the side of the stream to the next pool. It’s difficult to explain how hard it was to move about - there was not even a bear

Graham Gurr Old Gurr with big fish from the stream

trail to follow.

The fish were tight under the bank at our feet in the next pool and the only way to get a fly to them was from the other side. It took a few minutes but allowed a good drift through the pool to where the fish were. My first cast was rewarded with another fish, which ran towards the lake but I was able to stop it in the next pool up, and Jay swiftly netted it; a smaller fish which we let go.

We returned to the lake.

The boys had by this time landed about ten each and even our pilot had landed and kept his limit.

I moved back to the beginning of the stream and shot a long cast out into the lake, stripping fast. The fly was savagely attacked and I was into another good fish.

In all I ended up with four landed on the fly and kept the limit of two. The boys had got three from saltwater and kept another two fish each from freshwater.

Not a bad day’s fishing: spinning, the boys had landed between them over twenty fish.

When we got back Little Gurr and Bigger Gurr hung the fish on the All Alaska Outdoors bragging pole - and took some more photos. One of those special days when everything worked!

secure

TOR A T S ON

your lure & your sinker

new

product

Lurelock.

Sinkerlock.

No more hooks in fingers

Let our Marine Team take you for a spin on the Everyman 650 Sport Fisher and feel the power of the 200hp Mercury Verado!

No more mishaps

Ask for them at these fine stockists Hunting and Fishing stores

Marine Deals

Smart Marine

Rebel Sports

Hamills

Action Outdoors

Sports World

Salty Marine

Big Blue Dive & Fish

Pauls Fishing Systems

The Big Fish Bait and Tackle Co

Complete Angler

Yeehaa Tackle

DeCoro Fishing Supplies

Burnsco Top Catch

See the Marine Team at

RICHMOND 62 GLADSTONE ROAD, 03 544 6120

Visit our website and see how they work.

www.nifpro.com or call Darren on 027 824 9020 NEW STOCKISTS WELCOME

32 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

COOKING with CRIMPY

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

taste of Asia

T hai chilli lime cured fish Ideal for summer lunches, brunches, and barbecues.

Use any fresh, firm white fish fillets. Brings a delightful zing to summer.

•

300-500g fresh white fillets

•

4 limes

•

1 fresh chilli thinly sliced

•

2 spring onion chopped

•

Cup cherry tomatoes halved

•

1 capsicum finely diced

•

1tbsp fresh finely chopped coriander (optional)

Cut fish in to small cubes and marinate in lemon juice until cured, stirring occasionally. The flesh will turn white throughout.

•

Drain fish and put in a bowl.

•

Add onion, tomatoes and capsicum

•

Top off with dressing.

•

Serve chilled.

DRESSING

•

1/2 cup of olive oil

•

2 tablespoons of white vinegar

•

2 tablespoons of sugar.

•

Put in a screw top jar and shake until mixed.

•

Pour over fish and serve in individual bowls.

Join me for a Taste of Asia as we tour Vietnam and Cambodia.

Immerse yourself in exquisite cuisine, culture, and countryside, with 17 nights of touring and tasting.

Indulge yourself with the making of traditional dishes with Crimpy.

Immerse yourself in the rural way of life while staying with a local family.

Make new friends, eat traditional, home-cooked meals.

Over 32 meals included.

Awesome accommodation and sights to see.

ONLY

6500pp*

$

Come with us on this fantastic foodie tour of Vietnam and Cambodia - BOOK NOW! *Terms and conditions apply, see the full package

For the full package.

Call Crimpy now 021 472 517 email: editor@thefishingpaper.co.nz Annette 021 028 73393 email: annette@coastalmedia.co.nz

Crimpy’s Taste of Asia Early September 2017

33 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

Presents

The king of KFC Professional cocktail mover and shaker John ‘Mickie the Mojito’ Asanso was recently crowned Pacific Cocktail Champion after fighting off a solo field to take the title with his own creation, The KFC - or Kontiki Floating Coconut.

John is secretive about the recipe for his winning concoction but chemical analysis has revealed that it contains traces of coconut water amongst the alcohol.

Believed to be a family recipe handed down by his granddaddy, family sources say it is a closely guarded secret and made up of 11 different alcohols and mixes.

John carefully selects and collects coconuts that wash ashore while he is fishing and puts them through a process known on the island as ‘putrifermentation’. The juices are distilled and then filtered through a mat of nasal hair extracted from the island’s iconic coconut crab, before being left to mature for the afternoon.

Those who have sampled the drink have no

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

TFP TRAVELS

Kingies can be difficult to catch in the Marlborough Sounds and other southern bays over summer and the general rule is, if you see them cruising around the boat or nearby structures, especially close to the surface, they seem almost impossible to catch. If they are cruising or lolling about, they generally aren’t feeding, so how do you increase your chances of catching them?

Assuming you have appropriate gear, here are a few pointers that may increase your chances this summer:

idea what it tasted like but say the hospital food was fine.

Visitors to Niue should look for John at the Pool Bar at the Scenic Matavai Resort and ask for free KFC. If you present him with a copy of this paper - he may even take you fishing.

John is certainly King when its comes to KFC.

WorldTravellers Motueka • www.worldtravellers.co.nz Call: 03 528 1550 - Visit 183, High Street, Motueka

Sw e et Sm oke d

kings

John Asanso - the King of KFC.

At WorldTravellers Motueka we’re passionate about travel and are avid travellers ourselves. If there’s somewhere in the world you’d like to go, chances are one of our team has been there and can share their knowledge and personal experience with you - making the world of difference when it comes to booking your next holiday.

Handc ooked 100% N atural

Strategies for

Perfect for the bach, boat, barbeque & beyond

Pa p rik a

NEW! ✔ GLUTEN FREE ✔ GMO-FREE ✔ VEGAN FRIENDLY ✔ DAIRY FREE ✔ NO MSG ADDED

Made in Nelson

Available at all leading retailers nationwide

www.propercrisps.co.nz

Stick baits and surface lures like poppers and walk the dog: • Colour can be a determining factor so try blue, green and either red or pink. Bright lures on clear bright days, fishing shallow or in clear water; dark lures on dull days.

• Target mussel farms (outside line) change of light in morning and evening - kingies will be most active near the surface around these times. Start 5m out and draw kings away from farm so there is less chance of them fouling you. If you get follows but no hook ups - have a rod with a long jig rigged and switch to mechanical as the kingies go under the boat. They will still be down there and often respond to the tease and switch technique. You can jig in as little as 20m of water. Best tide - low to mid on incoming.

• Useful tip around structure or farms: bang side of boat quickly at intervals - sends vibrations through water and can excite predator fish like kings. Same can be achieved by tossing bucketfuls of water high into air so creates big splash.

Handfuls of pebbles do same.

Livebaiting: • A single hook ledger rig with sinker on bottom, heavy enough for depth and current. - target points that drop off, headlands, reefs etc where there is good current. Drift along the current line with the live bait 2m off the bottom - vary depth. Best tide - low to mid on incoming.

• Mechanical jigging worth trying in these areas. Use drogue or sea anchor if drift is too quick - lines need to be near vertical if possible.

• On underwater reefs and structures, kings school up on the top side of the current so work your drifts to have your lures or live baits in this zone by the time they get to the required depth.

Daryl Crimp

Trolling: • Least effective but worth a shot change light in morning, evening, in slightly choppy water, or if the barometer is dropping and a front coming. Run four lures zig-zag patter: 1st on pressure wave behind motor (close in) second 10m behind and deep, third 25 - 30m on surface and last at 50m - surface popper.

The back one doesn’t often catch but attracts kings into the lure zone.

• Useful tip - tilt motor up so frothing the water - audible berley - draws kings in and makes them think a work up is on.

Small to medium tides easier to fish than spring tides - generally give better window: During spring and summer - kings can cover a lot of ground so that’s where perseverance and targeting the right location during those key windows will be most productive.

Kellie Fissenden mixes it up with a summer rat.

34 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

PRODUCT PREVIEW John Deere Tin Signs - The Perfect Gift For the John Deere fanatic in your life We have just received our latest shipment of signs and to kick it off we have a brand new range of John Deere signs. The perfect gift for a tractor fanatic. There are heaps to choose from. You can also choose from cars to fishing, to vintage garage signs. There is a theme to suit any ‘Man Cave’, shed, bach or bar. The range is huge and there are heaps of themes.

Come on in and check them out.

From only $30, these signs make amazing gifts, but hurry, they are going fast.

Available from Ellis Street Auto, Ph 03 542 4035 104a Ellis Street, Brightwater, Nelson

Summer Safety for your Dog Leave dogs at home rather than taking them out in the heat of the day in your car – even with the windows open your car can heat up to 40° in 10 minutes. Dogs do not have a coping mechanism like we do and can die from heatstroke very quickly.

Avoid exercising your dog in the heat of the day – dogs don’t know when to stop and the heat stroke often kills them.

Keep your pets cool and avoid the stress of an avoidable trip to the Vets.

If you do need to see us we are open 7 days a week with a Vet on call 24/7 call 03 544 1200.

Have a safe and happy holiday.

From the Team at Town & Country Vet, 35 Mcglashen Ave, Richmond www.tcvet.co.nz

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Fish don’t know it’s raining

If a record number of fishers turn out on a miserably cold grey day, what can we expect for our 2017 competition if the weather is fine? Last year’s competition was held on a grey, almost drizzly day and the catch was the greatest in many years. Clearly fish don’t mind the rain - and anglers too!

competition, which is a friendly, family oriented occasion. All kids under 13 years get a prize to take home. The fact that this competition is nearly a quarter of a century old is testimony to the popularity of the event and the excitement and fun it generates. It

really is a great day at the beach and if you have never fished it before, put a circle on the calendar and sample some iconic Amberley hospitality.

Follow us on Facebook ‘Amberley Beach Surfcasting Competition’.

The competition is held later in January on the Sunday with the greatest amount of incoming tide between 8.00am and 3.00pm, so perhaps that helps to make a difference.

The 24th annual Amberley Beach Surfcasting Competition will be held on Sunday 22nd January 2017.

It is a charity fundraiser run by Amberley Lions, with the proceeds going towards support for the local community, with an emphasis on youth. Some of this year’s proceeds will go towards the ‘Fresh Waters’ Trust programme at Leithfield Primary School. Fresh Waters is a Fish and Game initiative where trout and salmon ova are raised in an aquarium at the school and then released into the wild.

Everyone from experienced surfcasters to grandchildren are welcome to fish the

After a hard day’s fishing, come home and relax at the touch of a button.. ..with your heat pump from

Chillers, cool rooms,

freezer rooms...

We are proud to service the Nelson region with all their commercial refrigeration needs

P 5469928 E info@nelsonheatpumps.nz

P 9280728 . E info@nhprefrigeration.nz

www.nelsonheatpumps.nz

www.nhprefrigeration.nz

35 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

Harbour Views

Faster than disaster

By Dave Duncan

Dave Duncan- Harbour Master

The new Harbour Master patrol vessel will be out from now on. Don’t forget to undertake the survey for some discounted fuel. Sharing some of the survey results I can tell you that everyone says they check the weather, everyone says they lodge a trip report with someone else, and 99% of us carry an anchor. That’s almost where the good news ends. Lifejackets are carried by over 90% of us but not always worn. I know how easy they are to get to when you are in the water and the boat is drifting away.

Dead easy.

One of the recurring issues we see on the water is the early morning fisher, paddler, or sailor without lights on his boat. The Pilot boat passed one last week that didn’t have a working starboard light. Given how little a battery operated one costs, or how readily they can have the bulbs replaced, there is no excuse for it.

Why should we carry lights at night? One reason is that those of us who know the rules can obey them. The obvious one is so that you can be seen. Nothing would spoil my day more than someone driving into or over me because I didn’t have a light on. I have to reach for those lifejackets under the front.

Oops – I’d be in the back half of the boat and going down fast.

Dead easy.

Nothing happens faster than disaster. What a great wake up slogan and how true it is.

Think about the little things that have gone wrong in the past and how quickly they go wrong. Be prepared this summer. Check the weather, lodge a trip report. Take two forms of communication. Wear your lifejackets. Leave the drinking until safely on land.

A safe and a happy New Year to you all.

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Fuel For Safety Winner

Get 12 cents per litre discount up to 200 litres with safety first this summer When the Harbour Master vessel approaches, simply answer a quick questionnaire about safety and you could receive your NPD discount voucher.

Sharon Cook is this month’s winner. Well done Sharon for keeping safe this summer.

36 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

A HOLIDAY BREAK LIKE NO OTHER !

Crimpy’s Hosted Boutique Island Tour Niue - Departing August 2017 I have personally packaged this unique hosted boutique tour so you get to sample the very best of Niue, while still having free time to enjoy your choice of an amazing array of activities: whale watching, swim with the whales, dive with the dolphins, fishing for wahoo, mahi mahi, and tuna, snorkelling, coral reef dives, underwater scooter, hunt the coconut crab, forest tours, golf, fishing from the shore, and much much more.

Immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and comfort of Niue with me, while relaxing in the beautiful clifftop surrounds of the scenic Matavai Resort.

CHECK THE AWESOME THINGS YOU WILL DO ON CRIMPY’S NIUE

BOOK NOW! You will need to download a QR reader app on your smartphone or tablet to view.

See more at www.thefishingpaper.co.nz/tfp-travels/

You need to come and visit Niue, this tour we are on is brilliant. Way better than doing your own thing, you should call Daryl Crimp and put your names on a spot for next year. We are going to come back again Daryl & Kate Morris

e u i N s ’ y p m i Cr

The last untouched Pacific paradise Personally crafted and hosted boutique island tour

For more details contact Crimpy or Annette Crimpy 021 472 517 - editor@thefishingpaper.co.nz Annette 021 028 7 3393 - annette@coastalmedia.co.nz

• 7 days - untouched paradise • Untouched by commercialised tourism • Cocktails with the High Commission • Connect with the mighty humpback whales • Abundant fishing opportunities • Crimpy cooks the catch • Genuine island feast and village experience • Snorkel in rock pools full of tropical fish • Indulge yourself with cocktails as the sun sets over this Pacific paradise • Island walks, relaxation and much more • Departing from Auckland

37 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

TIDES OF CHANGE

By Poppa Mike

THE FISHING DETECTIVE Anyone who goes fishing would have, at some stage, foul-hooked a fish, which usually comes to the surface at a funny angle causing much drag on the line. Then when it is landed, there is the dilemma of keeping it or throwing it back. In my experience most foul-hooked fish, especially those hooked in the eye, gut, or gills, or those with a blown bladder after coming from a great depth, like groper, will not survive.

It is decisions needed to be made promptly and professionally, in much the same way anyone going fishing makes decisions about where to fish, which rod, reel, lure, bait, species, berley, then mixes that with consideration of the weather, the tide, the currents, water temperature, to anchor or drift, how long to wait – all factors requiring the mind of a detective.

When I was 18-years-old I applied to be a policeman with an ambition to become a detective. I missed the height criteria by half an inch so moved on to other things.

Through the years I have come to realise successful fishing and successful detective work are much the same – both are about

landing the big one, be it on the boat, riverbank, or in court.

This was brought home to me as I followed events surrounding the disappearance of Ben Smart and Olivia Hope at Furneaux Lodge, in Queen Charlotte Sound on 1 January 1998. Detectives working on this case had a huge task on their hands but eventually landed their catch, Scott Watson, in court. A jury found him guilty, although the prosecution case looked tenuous.

Some might say he was ‘foul-hooked.’

Over the years several books, magazine articles, and TV documentaries have covered the case, but it was not until more recently investigative journalist Ian Wishart managed to ‘crack’ the case once he finally got access to the full police files of the case.

This resulted in his book ‘ELEMENTARY’ being published in 2016. Wishart certainly landed several big ones, big fish the detectives on the case should have landed. One was in Tory Channel (Ch20), the other in Shakespeare Bay (Ch21). If you like fishing and like holiday reading, I urge you to fish out ELEMENTARY, crack open a cool drink and try detective fishing with Wishart for the day.

Download the app for FREE and take The Fishing Paper & Hunting News wherever you go!

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Merry Crayfish

Gary Fisher defied the odds and managed his Christmas crayfish.

Mark Roden

Talk about pressure, I told Crimpy that Saturday looked like the best weather window and if he could give me till Sunday morning to get a story to him, it would be nice and fresh.

“Sunday at the latest”.

I felt like a kid on a class trip; it seemed like such a chore then but I used to write with big letters so they took up more room, didn’t have to write so much, fooled the teacher completely.

At this time of the year a good one day ‘weather window’ seems to be as good as it gets, and being the weekend before Christmas I’m assuming there would be a lot of frustrated fishos dropping everything (as you do) to get out and into it. Studying the weather, it looked like the east side of d’Urville was going to be the best option, as the prediction was for a light westerly turning to the north later in the day. So French Pass it was then.

The plan came together nicely, I took my boat, (boat history lesson: it’s a Silverline 595 built by Bennett’s Plumbing in Nelson around 20 years ago with a V6 Merc; goes really well) and picked up Gary at the Rai turnoff.

“I’m not allowed home without a crayfish,” he muttered.

OK, more pressure.

The French Pass road was as bad as I’ve ever seen it – wicked potholes, the single axle trailer really got a hammering.

We weren’t expecting the water to be very clean given the recent weather patterns and at our first stop the vis was only 3 -4m, although it proved to be reasonably fishy. Big tides mean big currents and coupled with the poor vis you tend to hug the rocks a bit more, just so you know where you are. So butterfish were the likely candidates and we all managed to get a few reasonable size fish.

Next stop was a guaranteed cray spot that

used to be productive… 10 years ago. They’re getting harder to find to the point that I generally don’t waste time looking, but none of us want Gary moving in with us so we were under pressure. Yes. Gary found a good one, we’d searched the whole area for one cray. (‘Teachers’ comment: introduction a load of waffle - didn’t fool me that you had F all to write about. Grammar and spelling needed work; WTF is a Terrykeehee? Chopped off your ending for no other reason than I wanted to have my say! Otherwise a Christmas Cracker story! Ed.)

38 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

Six metres shallow

&

THE D In front of NEW and FRESH customers each and every month.

G ET

Promote your business or product to our readers. The Fishing Paper & Hunting News gives away 20,500* copies FREE each month.

10,500 online readers.

New Zealand’s LARGEST * Official audited monthly circulation.

FISHING, HUNTING & OUTDOOR publication by circulation.

For a few years now myself and a couple of mates have been fishing hard out in Wellington Harbour and have had reasonable success with most species including snapper, kingfish, gurnard, and blue cod but, alas, no decent trevally.

That was until a couple of weeks ago when we decided to try a new spot near Ward Island.

Normally we fish reasonably deep in about 20 metres, avoiding the shallow waters around Eastbourne and Ward Island,

but decided to give it a go this season. And we are really glad we have! The first couple of trips fishing in only six metres produced some whopper gurnard (at least for the harbour) and elephant fish, but lately we have encountered, finally, some great trevally fishing.

Lots of berley and staggered ‘chunking’ of pilchards, circle hooks no larger than a size 4/0 with small strips of squid and or small pieces of pilchard seems to do the trick! As trevally have soft mouths it’s generally a good

idea to use a net to bring them aboard. They really do put up a great fight!

And they are great eating fish! We have made ‘Island style’ raw fish salad, sliced thin raw and eaten with soy sauce and wasabi, pan fried in butter with a squeeze of lemon, and hot and cold smoked! With a good oil content they are also pretty healthy, bonus!

• BEST FRONT COVER • BEST LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE • RUNNER UP BEST HEADLINE

So next time you are out for a fish, try in the shallows, you never know what’s about!

New widescreen LOWRANCE® elite-ti displays Lowrance® has introduced two widescreen displays to the Elite Ti standalone series of fishfinder/ chartplotters: the Elite-12 Ti and Elite-9 Ti touchscreen, which include the same exciting features as the Elite-Ti series — but on bigger 12- and 9-inch highresolution, widescreen displays.

Premium features include: easy-to-use touchscreen interface, Bluetooth® and wireless connectivity, proven Lowrance navigation technology, and highperformance sonar – including CHIRP, Broadband Sounder™ and StructureScan® HD with SideScan and DownScan Imaging™.

CHIRP sonar offers improved fish-target separation and screen clarity, while the StructureScan HD delivers photo-like images of fish-holding structure on both sides and directly beneath the boat.

With integrated wireless connectivity, the Elite-12 Ti and Elite-9 Ti operate directly through the GoFree® Shop for downloads of mapping and software updates. Elite Ti also works seamlessly with the Insight Genesis™ map-creation service, which allows users to make custom, high-resolution contour maps from recorded sonar logs, with bottomhardness and vegetation overlays. Insight

WINNER OF THREE AWARDS AT THIS YEAR’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS AWARDS CEREMONY.

THE DIRECTORY DIRECTORY THE How to to advertise? advertise?

How Simple.Choose Choosethe thesize sizeof ofadvert advertyou youwish wishand andthen then Simple. giveus usaacall callor oremail emailus uson onthe theaddress addressbelow. below. give

10cmxx6cm 6cm.................................... ....................................$175 $175  10cm The smart lines of the Elite-9 Ti.

Genesis Social Map also allows users to share or access a database of other user’s maps.

Bluetooth and wireless connectivity also provide control of single or dual Power-Pole® shallow water anchor installations, as well as access to the GoFree Link App, which allows anglers to view and control the display from an iPad® or Android® tablet.

Protected by the Lowrance Advantage Service program, the Elite-12 and Elite-9 Ti can be purchased from authorised Lowrance dealers and distributors, and are still available at an affordable price.

Both the Elite-12 Ti and Elite-9 Ti will be available in March 2017. For more information visit www.lowrance.com

8cmxx6cm 6cm...................................... ......................................$145 $145  8cm 6cmxx6cm 6cm...................................... ......................................$115 $115  6cm 4cmxx6cm 6cm.........................................$85 .........................................$85  4cm Allprices pricesexclude excludeGST GSTand andare aresubject subjecttotoaa12 12month monthbooking. booking.

All

Callus uson on03 03544 5447020 7020or oremail: email: Call sarah@coastalmedia.co.nz desiree@coastalmedia.co.nz

39 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

THE ACCOMODATION

DIRECTORY HELICOPTER HUNTS

EYECARE

Harrington Eyecare offer

HUNT

backcountry

Marlborough

20% OFF The ideal Motel to stay at in Greymouth when traveling on the TranzAlpine Express, free transfers offered.

Outboard Covers & Accessories

prescription & non-prescription polarised sunglasses on presentation of this ad!

Custom made outboard covers to suit each motor shape model & size.

Excluding package deals.

Come and explore: • West Coast Wilderness Bike Trail • Trout Fishing

Warm West Coast welcome from Murray & Wendy Torrens.

14 Smith St, Greymouth | Freephone 0800 080 859 www.sundowner.co.nz

CALL US ON 0800 4 CHOPPER OR 029 201 3269

Ph: 03 544 9160

www.harringtoneyecare.co.nz

OUTBOARD COVERS

e: info@tasmanhelicopters.co.nz

• Splash Covers are designed to be left on when the motor is running.

• Full covers for towing & storage.

• Mooring covers for boats left in the water

HOLIDAY PARK

BAIT

DISCOUNT BAIT SQUID MACKEREL BARRACOUTA Plus heaps more instore!

Available at

38 Grove Rd, Blenheim - 03 578 9960

www.hendersons.co.nz CHARTERS

GUIDED FISHING

Fly Fishing Tuition

www.outboardcovers.co.nz PAINT

Mentoring and guidance in all aspects of fly fishing Phone Grant 03 341 8886 or 027 2068751 grnvlhlms@hotmail.com

HOMEKILL

Fish filleting & smoking HOMEKILL - WILDGAME

PaintCo

Specialised staff - Years of experience in the marine and automotive paint industry - Pleasure and commercial needs - Marine paint - Antifoul products CALL US NOW OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TO VIEW OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE

36A Vickerman Street, Nelson E: paintco@xtra.co.nz • Ph: 0800 546 666

Salamis & small goods our speciality

GUIDED FISHING

TROUT & SALMON FISHING CHARTERS

FISH

with Neil Goldie

HARD!

book

CHRISTCHURCH

NOW

M: 027 210 2438 E: ngoldie@mail.com

guidedfishingnewzealand.com

Ph Lindsay 03 544 6880 or 027 240 4979

PLUMBING

MARINE MAINTENANCE

Steve Dawson

MOBILE MARINE MAINTENANCE NELSON • • • •

Outboard servicing and repairs All brands Trailer repairs Genuine or aftermarket parts

Phone

027 319 9941

HARDWARE

Let us fix your plumbing problem so you have more time for fishing.

SCALLOP DREDGES

KEV’S SUPER DREDGE

MOTOR OIL

NOT ONLY THE LEADING HARDWARE

supplier in Nelson.

WE DO

GUIDED FISHING YOUR ADVERTISEMENT

HERE 4cm by 6cm

$85

plus GST.

OIL TCW3 4 litre & 1 litre Check out our wide range of oils at

38 Grove Rd, Blenheim - 03 578 9960

www.hendersons.co.nz

BATHROOMS

KITCHENS HEATING, PAINT

& EVEN FISHING GEAR. 52 Saxton Road, Stoke | Phone: 03 547 9111 Port Nelson | Phone: 547 9111 88 High St, Motueka | Phone: 03 528 8164

QUALITY STAINLESS STEEL SCALLOP DREDGE Scalloping made easy

OUTDOORS SHOP

Southern Alps

OUTDOORS Open

7 Days

 FISHING  HUNTING  CAMPING  HABERDASHERY  FISHING LICENCES

8 Market Place, Twizel - Ph 03 435 0002 andyz899@hotmail.com

BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

Ph 03 576 5067 www.kevssuperdredge.co.nz

TAXIDERMY

Plum Taxidermy Specializing In Head Mounts Of New Zealand Game Animals.

Based in Nelson with 26 years experience.

Professional service, 4 month turn around on your trophy and a competitive price.

Contact Warren Plum at plumstone@xtra.co.nz or phone (03) 547 9143 for a quote, chance to discuss options and see examples of work.

40 THE FISHING PAPER - JANUARY 2017

www.thefishingpaper.co.nz

A mess in the mesh

STORY

Dylan Booth

One Sunday in early December, Matt and I rose at 4:30am for a quick hearty feed of jam on toast and then left Otematata, where we were staying, and ventured to the well known Mackenzie Basin, where we’d planned a fishing mission on the hydro canals. On went some classic music to listen to while on the way to ‘Spot X’, and talk centred around the monster fish that lurked there.

Arriving at Ohau C canal near change of light, we set up the rods quickly to make the most of the morning bite. I first put on a 1/32 jig head with a soft plastic and quickly landed a small salmon but nothing else.

Throughout the day I caught fish, including a 13lb rainbow trout on a favourite lure of mine.

Later in the day, I went to a spot where, in previous trips, I’ve been broken off by big fish.

On went the favourite lure and within minutes

- BANG - I was in! Little did I know, I’d hooked into a freight train. The fish went ‘loco’, turning on big surging runs under the pens, wrapping me in line and other obstructions under the salmon nets. It seemed I was destined for another bust off, but I felt something give.

Somehow, I managed to coax this monster fish out from under the mesh and avoid a right mess!

Once it was clear, I increased the pressure and quickly guided it onto the bank. I was shocked and said very little. Matt and I quickly weighed the beast, scarcely daring to wonder at the weight. Unbelievably, it came in at 37lb 13oz new personal best for me!

I sat with this fish in the water until it swam off. still silent but deep in thought.

Now to crack the 40lb mark and hopefully break that world record!

WTF You’re kidding me!

Scan here

You mention my size again weakling and I’m going to tail slap you!

On ya marks, get set....

...go!

SUPER SUMMER SPECIAL!

Yamaha 2 stroke outboards

$

FROM

699

BOATING MADE EASY...

BRINGING TOGETHER QUALITY PEOPLE QUALITY PRODUCTS & QUALITY SERVICE YAMAHA SUMMER OUTBOARD CASHBACK OFFER

With 14,000km of coastline, over 180,000km of rivers, and 3,820 lakes, there’s more to the land of the long white cloud than land. This summer getting out there on the water is easier than ever with up to $500 cashback on selected Yamaha four stroke outboards.

Visit Marlborough Watercraft for more information.

701 SH1 Koromiko, Blenheim 03 573 7736 • www.marlboroughmarine.co.nz

72 Grove Road, Blenheim 03 578 0569 • www.mwcraft.co.nz

SAME PLANET. DIFFERENT WORLD. *Terms and conditions apply