Hooked Up - Issue 3 + AGM Update

HOOKED up ISSUE 3 + AGM UPDATE

Tracking Gamefish Success Another World Record Claim

LegaSea Report

Hiwi the Kiwi Is there life after the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council? www.nzsportfishing.co.nz

New Zealand Sport Fishing Council is the one of the longest serving incorporated organisation representing recreational anglers.

The NZSFC was formed around the IGFA fishing rules and ethics so that a consistent standard could be set when comparing catches. The NZSFC offers additional records classes for NZ records beyond what IGFA offer for juniors and small-fry anglers. We have refined some of the IGFA rules to make them more suitable for our contests.

Our New Zealand based IGFA representatives keep a close liaison between IGFA and NZSFC and have regular input into issues that could affect New Zealand anglers. We have promoted valuable marine research that is internationally respected. This includes the game fish tagging programs for marlin, sharks, tuna and kingfish which now has a history of 17 years of information.

The Council created and continues to support the NZ Marine Research Foundation (NZMRF) for the primary purpose of conducting research on fish species benefiting our membership that could not, or will not be financed by government agencies.

Information from research carried out by the NZMRF has been very valuable when justifying our position in species management. All they have to do is remind themselves, that the majority of what the NZSFC does is for the benefit of individual members rather than equal benefits for each club.

More fish in the sea, better access, water quality, individual legal protection, record recognition, research, advocacy, fishing data collection and dissemination are all individual benefits of belonging to the NZSFC.

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CONTENTS STOP PRESS: NZSFC AGM.......................................4 Editorial..............................................................12 Executive Profile: Phil Appleyard.............................14

EDITOR / Bob Gutsell GROUP EDITOR / Colin Kennedy ART DIRECTOR / Jodi Olsson

Executive Profile: David Lockwood...........................16

CONTENT ENQUIRIES /

Roz Nelson Round-up..............................................18

Phone Bob on 021 750 562 or email

Are you or your club interested in purchasing a line tester?......................................20

bob_gutsell@yahoo.com ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES / Phone Jennifer Liew on 09 522 7257

Weighmasters Round-up.........................................22

or email jenniferl@espiremedia.com

Portrait of a Patron: Colin Buchanan............................24

ADDRESS / NZ Fisher,

From Around the Clubs............................................26

C/- Espire Media, PO Box 137162, Parnell, Auckland 1151, NZ

Hiwi the Kiwi............................................................27

WEBSITE /

Tracking Gamefish Success......................................28

www.NZsportfishing.co.nz

What’s Fishing Worth?.............................................30 NZSFC Annual Photo Competition.........................32 Crowdfunded Research Project will Protect Recreational Fishing...................................40

This is a GREEN MAG, created and distributed without the use of paper so it's environmentally friendly. Please think before you print. Thank you!

NZFSC Fisheries Update..........................................44 RICHARD LIEW Managing Director

021 123 456

Report from the NZSFC Fishing Subcomittee......................................46 www.espiremedia.com richardl@espiremedia.com

STOP PRESS.....................................................48 Jane Rooke Obituary................................................49

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 3

STOP PRESS

NZSFC AGM

Reprinted with Permission Grant Dixon and NZ Fishing News

Sport Fishing Council’s Annual meeting.

Hosted by the Ashley Sport Fishing Club Tag pole length, the use of braid line, minimum line classes for sharks, a new and held in Christchurch last month, kingfish policy, and the definition of what the event was attended by 70 delegates representing affiliated clubs from the constitutes a ‘caught fish’ were among the topics hotly debated at the recent NZ length and breadth of the country.

TAG POLES AND BRAID HOT TOPICS

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Tag pole length, the use of braid line, minimum line classes for sharks, a new kingfish policy, and the definition of what constitutes a ‘caught fish’ were among the topics hotly debated There was an extensive guest speaker list, which included presentations from Rob Southwick (representing Southwick Associates, who are currently undertaking the research into the economic value of recreational fishing); John Holdsworth (Blue Water Marine Research on the tagging programme); MPI’s Dave Turner (Director of Fisheries Management on the review of the Fisheries Act); Matthew Taylor (representing LegaSea, updating members on the Council’s public advocacy work); Cam Speedy (presenting seabird conservation and management); Grant Blair (www.fishing.net.nz on how clubs can incorporate a measured section into their competitions); and Jeff Romeril (NZ Marine Research Foundation report on activities); as well as a video produced by Matt Watson of Tightlines Media, acknowledging the work of this Council and LegaSea.

TAG-AND-RELEASE ISSUES There was a general consensus when tagging billfish and sharks: they are not to be removed from the water. But this did not take into account the scenario where a fish lands in the boat accidentally. The new bylaw states: ‘When billfish or sharks are tagged, they are not to be intentionally removed from the water before they are released’.

The Council will continue to make tags available to clubs to sell to members at cost. Sales of tags to non-members will be double the cost price.

Tag pole length has been set the same as for gaffs – 2.43m or eight feet – with the rationale being that this represents the length of a 90kgplus striped marlin when laid against the fork of the tail to the tip of the lower jaw. It was acknowledged that there was some opposition from the charter-boat fleet in the past, and that different boats needed different length tag poles. www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 5

STOP PRESS Only non-offset circle hooks will be allowed when targeting billfish with baits during the 2016 Nationals.

CIRCLE HOOKS If using live or dead natural bait to target billfish in the 2016 NZSFC’s Nationals tournament, non-offset circle hooks must be used. Essentially, the likes of the ‘Tauranga Killer’ skip bait rig that uses a ‘J’ hook will no longer be part of an angler’s arsenal when fishing for billfish. It is a rule that is likely to be adopted by most clubs for their tournament rules this season.

years previously, on July 20, 2010, in the same area by Epic Charters. The fish then measured 112cm and was estimated at 19kg.

John Holdsworth of Blue Water Marine Research reported an ‘overall average’ game fishing season, with patchy fishing on the northeast coastline and some good fishing at times on the west coast and in the Far North.

There were 535 striped marlin recorded as tagged and released. In a TAGGING PROGRAMME turnaround from previous years, there Tairua’s Jason Harris won the $1000 were some good-sized yellowfin caught, lucky draw open to anglers recapturing and a marked increase in the capture and reporting a tagged fish. Last of small/medium tuna noted. Numbers February Jason was fishing at the Alderman Pins when he caught a 20.4kg were still not high, with 90 yellowfin kingfish which had been tagged four recorded from the four northern clubs.

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The Council wants to see kingfish become a by-catch only for commercial fishers, and to work towards a ban on set-nets placed on deep reefs and offshore pinnacles A CAUGHT FISH It was proposed that the definition of a ‘caught fish’ be changed to: ‘When landing or boating a fish, the fish will not be deemed caught until the fish is weighed. Once gaffed, it cannot be tagged and released.’

There was discussion around the need to leader a fish, and thus have it under control, before being gaffed.

Problems arose for anglers who were jigging and had minimal leader, or those using wind-on leaders and angling the fish to the gaff without the person ‘bringing it under control’.

The issue was referred back to the Fishing Subcommittee to table a recommendation at next years’ AGM. NEW KINGFISH POLICY A new policy around the abundance of kingfish and the baitfish on which they feed was adopted. This aims to promote the intrinsic value of large kingfish as part of a healthy ecosystem, as well as being a high-

value sport fishery, making the species a high priority for the fisheries managers and decision makers.

This will be done by promoting conservative fishing methods, including catch and release, as well as reducing release mortality by using best fishing practices; specifically the use of non-offset circle hooks.

The Council wants to see kingfish become a by-catch only for commercial fishers, and to work towards a ban on set-nets placed on deep reefs and offshore pinnacles, regardless of the fisher’s stated target species.

The Ministry for Primary Industries will be asked to closely monitor and report the annual kingfish catch by trawlers and purse-seine vessels involved in the jack mackerel fisheries. Hot spots of kingfish catch need to be identified and protected by ensuring the vessels involved avoid those areas, perhaps with the use of time and area closures if necessary. www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 7

STOP PRESS

Making a new braid-fishing class of records has proved contentious, with a wait-and-see approach adopted until after an upcoming IGFA meeting next year deals with the issue first.

Photo: Mark Kitteridge

BRAID DEBATE A motion that sought to adopt a new class of records for use of braid, as per the council’s constitution, where the council can ‘create fishing rules that are outside IGFA rules fundamental to our fishing scenario’, was withdrawn after vigorous debate. IGFA representative John Chibnall said it should be withdrawn, given the subject of braid would likely be on the agenda of an IGFA rules conference scheduled for next year.

In withdrawing the NZSFC Board’s motion, a ‘wait and see’ attitude was adopted. The issue was revisited several times through the course of the meeting and has been referred to the Fishing Subcommittee to rework and present to the clubs for discussion.

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BAY OF PLENTY BAITFISH The NZSFC is to promote management action to reduce commercial purseseine catch in the greater Bay of Plenty region, as this disrupts the availability of food for high-value fish species, seabirds and marine mammals. This aligns with the ecosystem approach promoted in the NZSFC’s policy on FMA1 Fisheries Management.

From left: Roz Nelson, Richard Baker and John Chibnall were among those recognised for their service to the NZSFC.

CONTRIBUTIONS ACKNOWLEDGED Bay of Islands stalwart John Chibnall is standing down as the IGFA/Life Member representative on the Board, a position now filled by Mark Hemingway.

In his President’s Report, Mark Connor congratulated John on being made an IGFA Life Member. “I would like to thank John for his 47 years of service to the Council and his contribution to recreational fishing”, Mark stated.

John will remain as Council Patron, as well as remaining a Life and IGFA Member. Another long serving member of the NZSFC team, Roz Nelson, resigned earlier this year as Secretary/Executive Officer and Treasurer. Roz has had huge input in keeping member clubs up to date. Prior to that, her biggest contribution has been as Tournament Secretary of the Nationals, held each year throughout the country over the third week of February. Pulling the results together has been a massive task, and with participating angler

numbers continuing to grow, keeping track of the results is a record-keeping challenge that Roz handled competently.

Roz has also been responsible for organising the annual meetings in conjunction with the host clubs, as well as producing the yearbook. In replacing Roz, the Council has appointed Dave Lockwood. Dave has a wealth of experience in sports administration, and his role has been expanded to take in promotion and marketing.

Longstanding Wairarapa-based Zone Five representative Ed Beetham also stood down at the meeting. Ed was involved with the Hiwi the Kiwi programme, Water Safety NZ, and promoting member benefits. President Mark Connor acknowledged his contribution over many years. New Life Member, former president Richard Baker, continues to be involved in supporting Council’s work, especially around recreational fisheries advocacy. www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 9

STOP PRESS SERVICE AWARDS IGFA representative Tony Hill’s 30 years of service on Council was acknowledged with the presentation of

a plaque. Houhora’s Don Bellingham’s long involvement with Council was recognised with a 25-year plaque.

Other service award recipients included: TWO YEAR BADGES

Brenda Saul Pete Saul Jennifer Troup Charlie Lamb Yvette Wells Alan Proctor Ross Lucas Alberto Ramirez Graeme Bee Lewis Avenell Bob Anderson Chris Shuker

Zone 1 Zone 1 Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 4 Zone 5 Zone 5 Zone 6 Zone 6 Zone 7

Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club Bay of Islands Bays Fishing Club Clevedon Game Fishing Club Mercury Bay Mt Maunganui Akitio Hawkes Bay New Plymouth Raglan Canterbury

Zone 1 Zone 1 Zone 3 Zone 3 Zone 3 Zone 4 Zone 6

Whangaroa Bay of Islands Tairua-Pauanui Whangamata Whangamata Te Aroha Kawhia

Zone 1 Zone 1 Zone 1

Hopin Bay of Islands Whangaroa

Zone 2 Zone 2 Zone 3

Piha Deep Sea Fishing Club Warkworth Gamefish Club Mercury Bay

5 YEAR BADGES Jane Rooke Dave Arrell Warren Maher Barney O’Neill Roy Hoskin Phil McCarthy Cecil Hickman

10 YEAR BADGES Annette Hall Jerry Garrett Kelvin Mowat

15 YEAR PLAQUES Graeme Trotman Brett Rathe Warren Harris

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OFFICERS APPOINTED The following were appointed to office: President Phil Appleyard Immediate Past President Mark Connor

Board members: Zone One Kelvin Mowat Zone Two

Paul Batten

Zone Three Warren Harris Zone Four Deryk Nielsen Zone Five Wayne Bicknell

Vice Presidents

Zone Six

Bob Gutsell

Zone Seven Mark Connor

Zone Eight Peter Campbell

and Peter Campbell

Records Officer

Lewis Avenell

Pete Saul

IGFA/Life Member Representative Mark Hemingway

An auditor has yet to be appointed.

Patron

MINIMUM SHARK WEIGHTS A motion from the Fishing Subcommittee that would have seen line weights for sharks restricted to 15kg up to 60kg and the tagging points increased to 250 for the

John Chibnall

Nationals was lost. There was a concern that many of the sharks were being dumped. Several South Island clubs – for whom sharks are a ‘staple’ gamefish – objected, as it would affect their ability to compete.◆

EDITORIAL

ear Members, Following on from the last edition’s news that Roz had decided to retire, has come the reality. Roz left us at the end of July – all the best Roz! I would like introduce our new Secretary, Treasurer and Executive Officer Dave Lockwood. Dave comes to to us from St Johns and before that Water Safety NZ where he has a solid background in administration, communication, funding, developing and implementing programmes to suit a range of organisations.

Dave is keen to build solid communications and relationships with our existing clubs and is already in discussions with prospective 12 ◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz

new members. He has a huge task ahead of him filling Roz’s shoes, as he somehow has to learn the ropes during a very busy time.

The workload in front of him at present must be fairly daunting, as I have given him lists of jobs that need his attention; AGM, Yearbook and Nationals all need immediate action, not to mention all of the other jobs that need to be done as part of our normal day to day operations. I would very much appreciate all your help over the coming months in making Dave’s transition as smooth and painless as possible. Welcome aboard Dave; Phil and I and the rest of the NZSFC look forward to working with you.

Speaking of ends of era’s, I have more news for you on the retirement front. John Chibnall has notified the Board that he

will be standing down as IGFA and Life Member Board representative. I had the pleasure of presenting John with his 45 year service award at the 2013 AGM; an achievement that will be hard to beat.

John has put his life and soul into the NZBGF Council, now renamed NZSFC, and I am sure you will all agree that his lifetime of efforts has ensured that the Council and our Clubs are all the better for it, not to mention our fishery where John has spent many hours battling Commercial and Government to protect our precious resources.

John has been nominated by Doubtless Bay to remain our Patron and I wholeheartedly second this nomination. It is good to have an old wise head to keep us on the straight and narrow. John will be with us at the Christchurch AGM and we look forward to seeing him there. Mark Hemmingway has been nominated for the IGFA/Life member position on the Board.

could be one of the best things to happen for recreational fishing in years to come.

We need the general public to get firmly on board with this. LegaSea has put its hand up to raise the required funds, but no small task here.

I can’t emphasis enough the time and effort your Board members put in and at times this comes at great personal cost financially and personally. Remember these guys are volunteers trying to run businesses, raise families and sometimes even go fishing, but sadly I have found over the last four years that almost every time we attend a meeting it seems like the best day there has been for weeks to actually get out on the water.

Enough from me, you are moving into safe hands with Phil our incoming President and Dave his new Executive Officer and their team including new V.P.S Bob Gutsell and Peter Campbell. I have met a lot of good people and made some very good friends who have taught me a lot, which I will benefit from over the coming years. I would like to thank all of you who have helped me out over my term – it is very much appreciated.

This will be my last editorial because I will stand down at the forthcoming AGM. As I reflect over the last four years, we have been through some fairly rocky roads and there has been a fair bit of adversity to overcome. I firmly believe that Tight lines and see you all in Christchurch. we have overcome the deceptions and distractions and, to coin a phrase, have had a good look in the mirror. I believe we are in a good space going forward, even though this coming year will be a tough President/Zone 7 Board Rep New Zealand Sport Fishing Council Inc one financially.

Mark Connor

The NZMRF Value of Recreational Fishing Survey will be a big project to deliver but

Mobile: 0274 327 485 www.nzsportfishing.co.nz www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 13

EXECUTIVE PROFILE

Phil Appleyard Fishing is ‘in the blood’ of incoming NZ Sport Fishing Council president Phil Appleyard.

By Grant Dixon

Incoming NZSFC president Phil Appleyard assists young customer Jack Neal with the purchase of his first soft-baiting outfit.

t a young age Phil was introduced to fishing through his parents who were commercial cray fishers out of Island Bay, Wellington.

At the tender age of 10 Phil achieved something many snapper anglers still aspire to: catching their first ‘20-pounder’, a feat achieved on his 10th birthday from the family’s home-built boat, while fishing the Makara coast.

says. A butcher’s apprenticeship followed, after which Phil opened his own shop, selling it a year or so after.

A ‘corporate’ position followed, training young staff entering industrial food manufacturing jobs. Some 24 years ago he helped a mate establish a tackle shop, and ended up taking over as sole owner of what was to become The Phil made the most of every opportunity Big Fish Bait and Tackle Company on to get out on the water as he grew up, Cascades Road, Pakuranga, four years and continued this when the family later. As a way initially of developing a moved to Auckland. “I hooked up with solid band of anglers loyal to his shop a local longliner and went out with him Phil established the Big Fish Fishing whenever I could at weekends and school Club, which duly affiliated to NZSFC. holidays. After leaving school I worked the Phil served as club delegate and board member. Four years ago he was deck full time for a couple of years,” Phil 14 ◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz

Incoming NZSFC president Phil Appleyard assists young customer Jack Neal with the purchase of his first soft-baiting outfit.

elected one of two vice-presidents, taking over as head honcho from Mark Connor at last month’s Christchurch AGM, hosted by the Ashley club.

‘Game Fishing’ and replaced it with ‘Sport Fishing’ in its name – “a better indicator of what we are about.”

“Via our organisation we will being Phil aims to continue the ‘modernisation’ working towards offering value to the recreational fishing public.” He says by of council, using the communications supporting a club, anglers go a long technology now available. “Having way towards ensuring they have a voice appointed Dave Lockwood as the in fisheries management. “Through council’s new executive officer, his Council’s advocacy arm – LegaSea – role goes well beyond that of simply we represent recreational fishers in a being a secretary/treasurer. He will be number of forums involving industry, leading the charge in bringing the work the Ministry (for Primary Industries) and of council before a greater number of customary Maori interest, and that is recreational anglers.” something we will continue to build.”

The Council has a nationwide club Bringing ‘strong science’ to those forums structure in place that incorporates is something high on the Council’s around 32,000 affiliated members, but Phil aims to expand on this. He says the agenda, as indicated by the current ‘old’ concept of game fishing clubs being Southwick Associates survey into the value of recreational fishing to the elitist is no longer the case. This is why domestic economy. ◆ several years ago the Council removed www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 15

EXECUTIVE PROFILE

David

Lockwood in his own words Introducing NZSFC’s new Secretary, Treasurer and Executive Officer Dave Lockwood.

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am 52 years old and married IMPRESSIONS SO FAR with two children. We live in There is a hell of a lot to do! The Hunua, south of Auckland. organisation is one of the biggest My background has largely been in incorporated societies in the country the sport and recreation sector. Over and the largest of its kind in the the last 30 years, I have worked in a number of not-for-profit organisations at recreational fishing sector. The Ministry a club, regional and national level. My for Primary Industries has accepted previous role was with Water Safety NZ fishing as the one of the most popular as the national community manager. recreation activities in New Zealand, I have also undertaken consultancy with 900,000 active fishermen (20% of with a number of sport and recreation organisations, reviewing organisational the population). I am keen to work with capability, as well as health and safety.

Sport NZ to see how we can bridge the gap, and encourage ‘casual fishermen’ WHAT ATTRACTED ME TO THE ROLE?

into our family of clubs. We need to grow

I had worked with NZSFC previously when I was at Water Safety NZ, where I got to know key people in the organisation at last years NZSFC AGM in Gisborne and was hugely impressed with the energy and passion they had for the organisation. It has always been an ambition of mine to manage a national sport organisations, and this opportunity was too good to ignore. There has to be a ‘cause’ for me to work for an organisation and the NZSFC has some challenges like fisheries management, a stagnant growth in club membership and alignment to other relevant organisations. Hopefully, I can add some value here.

our membership, particularly with our junior fishermen, as they are going to be the future of the sport.

The NZSFC National Tournament is a true gem in the organisation’s calendar. I am committed to making the tournament the best it can possibly be.

Down the track, I think we can turn this into a truly epic international event. Who wouldn’t want to come down to New Zealand and fish in our nationals? Finally I am really looking forward to getting around the clubs and meeting you all in due course.◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 17

Roz Nelson Update

Is there life after the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council?

Roz Nelson takes a light hearted look at retirement‌.

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“

ell, yes, surprisingly enough, I have found that there is life after Council. Although I am only a couple of weeks into retirement, I can say that life is extremely busy. Being Shelton’s number one farm hand, and with 17 calves born over the last couple of weeks, this has left me with only a little time to miss what used to be. And the gardening is still on the back burner!

That said, of course the Council will always be very dear to my heart and I am always anxious to hear what’s going on – old habits die hard.!Of course I am always thinking of things that I think Dave should be doing, so have probably annoyed him somewhat with my constant reminders. I am doing my best to let go!

The paperwork is still work in progress in that I know it needs tidying a tad more before passing it on. It is always the last thing to be done and I hope in time to get it sorted.

Probably the only advice I can give (if anyone wants any), is that the Council is our clubs and without our clubs there would be no Council. The board is only there to do what the clubs want. I think it is good to remember to look after the clubs and the Council will be fine.

Probably the only advice I can give (if anyone wants any), is that the Council is our clubs and without our clubs there would be no Council.

The only other thing is to work within the Constitution. If you don’t like what is in there, then change it so that you are always working within it along with keeping within the bylaws and policy as well.

I think my ‘goodbyes’ have well and truly been said, along with many thanks to everyone who made my journey a very happy and memorable one. I wish the Council all the very best in the future and hope it continues to go from strength to strength.

Finally, Shelton and I look forward to catching up with everyone at the AGM. I can’t think of anything better than being able to be there without working! With many thanks to all once again. ◆

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 19

Advertorial

Are You or Your Club Interested in Purchasing a Line Tester?

Last month the Mangawhai Boating & Fishing Club held a ladies night class on the subject of beginning to fish‌

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ver two dozen brave ladies turned up to listen to club weighmaster Darryl Reardon and Tony Orton (Offshore Adventures) talk on setting up your fishing gear, tying knots and a more general ‘let’s get started’.

One aspect of the night was the ability to test your knot once it was tied. NZSFC borrowed a line testing machine which demonstrated that the better tied knots broke at a higher strength (all the knots were tied on the same breaking strain line).

There was a lot of fun and laughter over “who tied the best”, “whose knot was the prettiest” and “my knot is better than yours!”

Some 40 knots later, one was heard to say “I’ve caught marlin winding lesser turns than testing these knots”.

Interestingly the two gentlemen who were teaching the knot tying were

cunning enough to tie their knots poorly so that half of the ladies’ knots tested better than their ones.

The best knot tested out at 98.75 per cent of break strain used; it was tied by outgoing club secretary Isabel Hollis. The best that club Patron/President Buck Buchanan could muster was 87.85 per cent on his second attempt.

He was heard to mutter: “Who uses 10kg line as trace anyway? It’s too bloody thin to see without my glasses”.

If you or your club are interested in purchasing a line tester, which can be certified, used to weigh fish, test drag settings or just test lines or knots, give Phil Appleyard a call on 09 5762764 or 027 2730500; or NZSFC Executive Officer Dave Lockwood on 021 1771705 or email secretary@nzsportfishing.org.nz ◆

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 21

Weighmasters Round-up

Another World Record Claim

for Donna Pascoe & Team Gladiator We left Auckland, made a plan, and in less than 12 hours we had the 80w game fishing reels singing!

Words and photos

by Marcus Hazeldine

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nce the fishing was done a world record nonetheless for this we headed for the weigh species. We also tagged and released a station at Mercury Bay Game second Southern Bluefin tuna.

Fishing Club.

It was a busy morning doing all the necessary measuring and paperwork to Southern Bluefin Tuna

process the world record. All the tuna

• Pending World Record Women’s 60kg line class

is vacuumed packed and not a morsel

• Angler: Donna Pascoe.

We’d like to thank Mercury Bay Game

• Skipper: Ken Pascoe.

Fishing Club for their hospitality and

• Deckhand: Marcus Hazeldine.

• Caught on board ‘Gladiator’.

went to waste.

the great reception we received from the community on arrival at the weigh station. Hopefully we’re back there very soon – but no time to waste, we’re

Not a monster tuna like before, but

go fishing… ◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 23

Portrait of a Patron

Colin Buchanan (Buck): Old Man of the Sea

Colin, whose very popular nickname is ‘Buck’, came to live in Mangawhai with his wife Lynne in 1982, where they raised their two children, Erin and Karl – where he soon joined the local fishing club.

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It wasn’t long before Buck became a committee member at the Otamatea Boating and Fishing Club, as it was called in those days.

He was a committee member for 15 years, spending the last three years as President. He left the committee in 1997 to concentrate on his building business and, of course, fishing.

In 1997 the fishing club had a name change to Mangawhai Boating and Fishing Club for obvious geographical reasons.

In 2000, Buck came back onto the committee to help with the building of the new club rooms. These are a great asset for our club today. They sport brilliant trophy mounts of fish and a lot of important memorabilia.

He is still a committee member, having spent three years as Club Captain and the last two as President. Before the Mangawhai Club, Buck was a member of NZ Big Game Fishing Council (now NZSFC). He was also a member of the Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club at Tutukaka for about 10 years, followed by the Warkworth Game Fish Club for another five years.

Buck first started game fishing in 1985 with his good mate, Warren Neely. They mainly fished around the Cape Brett area, where Buck caught his first marlin in 1986. Together they caught at least one marlin each, every year, for the next

15 years, and often two in one day.

In 1995 their first trip to the Kaipara Coast was in an 18ft Ramco, where they caught and landed a 135kg stripped marlin, which had to be weighed at the Kaiwaka Tavern off the end of a fork lift.

Apparently there weren’t many weigh stations around the area in those days.

In 1999, fishing from Tutukaka in the small boats competition, they won with a 190kg blue marlin fishing from Bucks boat “Seducer” – a 7m Qwest.

Their hunting grounds covered some unforgiving territory, ranging from Great Barrier Island to the Poor Knights to Whangaroa Harbour. In 1994 Buck caught his heaviest marlin to date, a blue, of 204kgs.

These days Buck mostly fishes out of his boat, “Get Reel”, a 9.5m West Coaster, with his son Karl and a few mates. He is always keen to travel in pursuit of the game fishing challenge.

This year Buck helped three of his mates catch their first marlin, including his first tagged and released. This may be a turning point in Bucks fishing career because he is now looking to the future with a couple of keen grandchildren already talking about the big one.

The Mangawhai Boating & Fishing Club would like to thank Buck for all his timeless effort, energy and support for our club and wish him well for his fishing future. ◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 25

From Around the Clubs

It started with a Facebook message…

“If there is someone out there who was given a special lure as a birthday gift and lost it, presumably last season? You will be pleased to know that it was picked up last week by a trawler and the gentleman would very much like to return it to you.

It has been specially inscribed with the words ‘Happy 60th birthday Pete’.

If this belongs to you contact Linda, game base radio.”

And finished with a happy ending…

Pete’s lure will be on its way back to him shortly.

Comments: »» “Where was it picked up? Between Mercs and Alderman.” »» “You are a good man Drew Fish and how lucky is Pete?” »» Joanne Armstrong, “you better tell Pete I’ve got his lure back for him thanks to Linda and Drew.” »» “OMG are you kidding haha that fanbloodytastic what are the chances whoop whoop legends.” »» “I’ll have it in the post for you next week Pete, how long has it been in the water for? It doesn’t look like it’s been there for very long.” »» Simon Hopkins “Still looks good. We lost it in January in the Tairua Shimano competition we thought it was gone for good.”

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Hiwi the Kiwi

Growing from Success to Success

The Hiwi the Kiwi Goes Fishing programme has entered its 7th year. Originally NZSFC funded the venture on the promise of performance at 300 schools (90,000 kids).

By March 2016 we will have reached 1000 schools (300,000 kids). That represents awesome reward for the enlightened decision made in 2009. By Mark de Lacy, AKA ‘The Minstrel’

n 2014 the programme expanded into intermediate schools, again with huge success. Every school visited in this category has indicated they want repeat shows every two years with their population change.

The continuing fabulous support from Grant Dixon and NZ Fishing News and the team at Kitwell has done heaps in making the show appealing to schools who are encouraging kids to write stories on sustainability. Perusal of the writing produced by the children demonstrates unequivocally that the messages are getting through.

Chrissy and I were honoured to receive the Water Safety Supreme Champion

of New Zealand last November and we appreciate the efforts of Ed Beetham and others to have gained us this award, as well as funding help for brochures.

The 10,000 books/CDs originally underwritten by Rick Wakelin at Black Magic will have all been placed in schools by November this year. We are delighted that the NZSFC is funding the purchase of 5,000 more.

It’s disappointing that my proposal to create a specialised resource for intermediate schools (to guarantee continuation of the programme post Minstrel) has been knocked back for lack of funding. This will ultimately mean the programme with finish with my retirement. ◆

FIND OUT MORE HERE www.hiwithekiwi.co.nz www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 27

Gamefish News

Tracking Gamefish Success For 58 years the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council has been at the forefront of the conservation of gamefish, and more latterly the management of inshore fisheries and the marine environment.

LegaSea is promoting this vital work to a broad audience, highlighting that the Council is the only organisation in New Zealand that purchases and distributes fish tags to recreational fishers.

There have been 110 swordfish tagged and released over the previous three years with two recaptures to date. One of these was at the same location caught by the same angler who tagged it eight months earlier, the other was 1360 nautical miles north in the fishing zone of Tuvalu.

Marlin fishing on the northeast coast was sporadic this season, but generally on a par with 2013-14. Fishing on the west coast of the North Island was very good at times.

There have been some large yellowtail kingfish tagged this season, up to 50kg, and overall the average size and number The Council is committed to tagging of kingfish appears to be increasing.

50 per cent of striped marlin caught and encourages all anglers to tag and This past season has also been release fish less than 90kg. notable for the return of yellowfin tuna across a range of sizes in modest, but encouraging numbers.

28 â—† www.nzsportfishing.co.nz

Some fishers like to keep the first fish for the boat in a new season and the NZSFC

Figure 1: Distance and direction travelled by tagged striped marlin from New Zealand. Release location for all fish is in the centre, outer circle is 2000 nautical miles, numbers around the circle are compass bearing.

encourages you to tag and release subsequent captures, to conserve them for the future and so we can study their movements.

The distance a direction travelled by striped marlin tagged in New Zealand is shown in the rose plot below. The release location is in the centre and the circles are at 1000 and 2000 nautical miles.

The record displacement distance for our striped marlin is 3180 nautical

miles northeast to the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia in 234 days.

The longest time at liberty for a recaptured striped marlin is 2 years 10 months for a fish tagged at the King Bank and recaptured off Bermagui, Australia.

The New Zealand tagging data supports the theory that striped marlin in the Southwestern Pacific are a separate stock from those in the Eastern and Northern Pacific. â—† www.nzsportfishing.co.nz â—† 29

NZFSC Update

What’s Fishing Worth?

A stack of effort has gone into developing the ‘What’s Fishing Worth?’ campaign to raise funds for the most recent New Zealand Marine Research Foundation project.

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The Foundation has commissioned a full-scale research project to find out how much recreational fishers contribute to our national economy through taxes, job creation and GDP growth.

Last year LegaSea surveyed the online database and asked people if they thought valuing recreational fishing was important. The overwhelming response was yes!

LegaSea is leading the fundraising effort because this research is essential if we want balanced fisheries management decisions that restore abundance to our coastal waters.

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Overall project costs are $400,000, including $250,000 cost for the research. Funds are being raised through grant applications, donations from businesses with a vested interest in recreational fishing, and a public appeal.

It is the first time LegaSea has used a crowdfunding platform to raise money and so far it has been successful.

LegaSea has a fundraising target of $100,000 by 13 September. Funds will continue to be sought until the end of 2015. www.whatsfishingworth.co.nz.

LEGASEA HAWKE’S BAY LegaSea Hawke’s Bay has been actively pursuing solutions to resolved finfish depletion issues in Hawke Bay, particularly near Napier.

Several meetings have been held with Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and industry representatives. MPI is facilitating these meetings, but is not convinced there is a sustainability issue, more a competition for available fish. There is no reliable stock status information for most FMA2 stocks.

The Foundation has commissioned a fullscale research project to find out how much recreational fishers contribute to our national economy through taxes, job creation and GDP growth.

LegaSea Hawke’s Bay is advocating for meaningful commercial catch reductions and a trawl ban within 50m depth contour, until stocks can be restored to a minimum of 40 per cent of unfished biomass.

In the absence of any meaningful commercial catch reductions, a trawl ban within the 100m depth contour will be sought. The next joint meeting is expected in the week starting 24 August. ◆

CALL US 0800 LEGASEA or EMAIL US pieter@legasea.co.nz

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 31

NZSFC Annual Photo Competition

Bosca #19

Bosca in32the â—† water www.nzsportfishing.co.nz shot #18

Bosca shot #20

Charlie Johnson #4 Justin Brien #1

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz â—† 33

Justin Tombleson #5

Kyle Ridling #12

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Micky Thomson #3

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz â—† 35

Murray Jordan #13-17

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Murray Muir #11 Peter Gatley # 2

Shona Keoghan #10

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38 â—† www.nzsportfishing.co.nz Shona Keoghan #9

Toni Peck #6

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Toni Peck #7

NZ Marine Research Foundation Report

Crowdfunded Research Project will Protect Recreational Fishing All our effort is currently focused on a successful completion of the economic value of recreational fishing project. Quite frankly this could be the single most important and powerful thing recreational fishers could do to have our interest served, now and for the long term future.

40 â—† www.nzsportfishing.co.nz

urpassing our huge project on satellite tagging of striped marlin, the historic kahawai legal case by the NZSFC and the recent newsworthy outcry over the reduction of catch bag limits of snapper in SNA1. I say this with confidence because similar studies done elsewhere have had a rapid and dramatic rethink on how fisheries were managed, and to enhance the benefits currently being gained.

Some cases in point:

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Mexico No go commercial fishing zones remained closed after being threatened with opening to commercial fishing.

Greater recognition given to low–impact and sustainable sport fishing tourism.

The commercial fishing industry has advocated for decades that recreational fishers should be constrained to a fixed allocation in all the species we compete for. This will only see diminishing returns in time to the individual fishers. And that will happen if the decision makers continue to believe we offer little or nothing to the economy.

Panama now has political recognition of the importance of sports fishing to the economy and citizens wellbeing when previously there was no recognition of sports fishing and the fishery managed only for commercial fishing.

Now, I can see an opposing argument Costa Rica now has a National developing that NZ fisheries are already Sportfishing Commission to advise and managed for recreational fishers. Far monitor all issues related to sports from it, we live in a system called the fishing. Prior to that, they only managed Quota Management System that was for commercial harvest. designed as a commercial fishing management system to generate the NSW Australia has just completed maximum sustainable yield from the a similar study and found that resource for them. recreational fishers contributes an estimated AU$3.4 billion to the NSW economy and generated over 14,000 jobs. This is staggering and more importantly, Aussies have a similar lifestyle to our own where one in five people fish.

The commercial fishing industry has advocated for decades that recreational fishers should be constrained to a fixed allocation in all the species we compete. This will only see diminishing returns in time to the individual fishers. www.nzsportfishing.co.nz â—† 41

And that will happen if the decision makers continue to believe we offer little or nothing to the economy.

New Zealand lifestyle, birth right and the Fisheries Act “the minister shall allow for” in determining allocation of the fisheries resource to recreational fishers have been the main stay of our current arguments.

While this is hugely important, it doesn’t give us the traction we need to have the fisheries managed in a way that actually benefits us. The decision makers understand jobs, tax take, GDP, foreign dollars and tourism both domestic and international.

These are the powerful levers that will make a difference and why the NZMRF thinks it is so important to find those numbers.

The foundation doesn’t have sufficient money to go this alone. The project itself is $250,000 and initial scoping work, phase 1, fundraising and sharing the results will cost another $150,000 of which a large sum has already been spent.

So we are seeking the support of individual fishers through crowd funding. With a target of $100,000 started on the 10th August (deadline 30 September), and fundraising due to continue until the end of the year.

If you value your fishing and want to leave a better quality fishing experience for the future for yourself and generations to come then I urge you to get behind this project. All donations are tax deductible with a tax receipt returned to you within minutes. ◆

FIND OUT MORE HERE www.whatsfishingworth.co.nz 42 ◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz

WE CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT YOUR SUPPORT

PROMOTING F IS H IN G R E S E A R C H FOR FU T U R E A N G L IN G . www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 43

NZFSC Fisheries Update

Mixed News for Inshore and Pelagic Species

Combined submission effort

n important milestone was achieved with the joint submission on the Marlborough Sounds blue cod regulation review.

There was unprecedented cooperation between the NZSFC, the Marlborough Recreational Fishers Association, the Coalition of the Combined Clubs of Wellington and the New Zealand Angling and Casting Association.

soon as any outcome will be applied from 20 December, the opening day of the new blue cod season. http:// nzsportfishing.org.nz/index.cfm/ pageid/449/ViewPage/MarlboroughSounds-Blue-cod

The submission was delivered to the Ministry for Primary Industries on June 30th. We expect a Ministerial decision

No other submissions are anticipated prior to the start of the new fishing year, on 1 October.

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These groups have committed to working together as much as possible in the future to achieve restored abundance in our coastal fisheries.

MANAGEMENT INPUT After 18 months a draft Snapper 1 Strategic Plan is underway. The NZSFC has been the most proactive participant in providing a range of discussion documents to the Planning Group.

The most recent offering was “The feasibility of avoiding small snapper and reducing release mortality in the amateur catch”. This will be discussed at the next group meeting on 25 August. It is unclear when the Minister will release the plan for public discussion; the NZSFC is keen to get the public involved as soon as possible.

If we are to constrain snapper catch to restore abundance on the northeast coast then we need to make sure that effort does not shift from snapper to more vulnerable species such as gurnard, tarakihi or trevally, which have suffered from local depletion in many areas. Commercial catch levels for such species may need to be reset to more realistic levels. Rebuilding our snapper and other inshore stocks is a priority.

The Annual Review Meeting of the Highly Migratory Species Fisheries Plan was held in Auckland in May. This Fisheries Plan is five years old and due for review.

Purse seining will be included in the revised Plan. The HMS plan will not be reviewed until MPI has completed a review of Fisheries 2030 this year.

Overall 2015 was an average season for striped marlin recreational catches, particularly on the northeast coast. More swordfish have been caught due to the increase in daytime targeting with deep baits.

Commercially, skipjack and albacore tuna fishing was poor this season.

A survey to estimate amateur harvest of blue cod and snapper in FMA7, at the top of the South Island, is due to start on 1 September. The NZSFC has been monitoring the development of the survey and we await the preliminary results with interest.

Prominent regional issues include purse seining in the Bay of Plenty, especially during the Dec/Jan period, finfish depletion in Hawke’s Bay and the CRA 3 concession debate.

All of these issues are ongoing and the NZSFC is committing resources to help local efforts to restore these areas to abundance.

There are some interesting statistics in the most recent Yellowtail Kingfish Monitoring Report. Members are encouraged to download the report and read the good news about kingfish abundance in the north. http:// nzsportfishing.org.nz/userfiles/file/ Kingfish-monitoring-report-2015.pdf ◆ www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 45

Report from the NZSFC Fishing Subcommittee

JOINING TWO LINES COMES UNDER REVIEW

The changes mentioned are:

By John Chibnall Outgoing Chairman of the Fishing Sub-committee

• Section 3 – NZ Champion Line Weight Anglers – will now be for weighed fish only • New Section: There will be a new section – NZ Champion Line Weight Anglers – tagged fish with the winner being the angler who tags and releases the most fish in each line weight in the following species: blue and black marlin, broadbill, and striped marlin.

• Equal number of tagged fish: In the event of an equal number of fish being tagged the winner will be the one who tags their last fish first.

Starting with the Nationals, there are a few planned changes to the 1916 tournament – plus a couple to be voted on at the AGM – but the major change is that there will be a new convener, as Roz Nelson after 30 odd great years of service has retired from her position on the Council. The new Executive Officer–Secretary of the Council, Dave Lockwood, will be responsible for operation of this event.

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• Shark tagged points have increased to 250 points – this to be decided at the AGM • Shark will be on line weights 15 to 60 kg only – this to be decided at the AGM • Minimum weights: For skipjack, snapper, kahawai and trevally – fish on 1, 2 and 3kg must exceed 1kg and fish on 4, 6, 8 and 10kg must exceed 2kg

More information will be available from the AGM. Also at the AGM, the members will be voting on whether

world record rules and regulations which were set by the IGFA in the late 1930s.

I believe the proposed NZ fishing rule For some years now the NZSFC has change that is part of the AGM agenda been trying to persuade the IGFA to and that everyone has received should change the rules when using two lines be shelved until we see what comes out which are joined together forming the of the IGFA review. Trying to influence top shoting method. what may come out of this review by passing something in NZ beforehand Presently the stronger of the two lines could quite easily go against us because used is considered by the IGFA as of the world wide backing, then when These days attendance at claiming a record they the Council this meeting. state the stronger of the two lines is the only breaking strain they recognise when claiming the record. We believe this rule is wrong as the weaker of the two lines will always break first.

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is involved in the future sustainability of our fishery and is important to recreational fishing which is still our core business.

There is a proposal to change this rule for New Zealand record claims outside the IGFA rules that has gone out to our membership for their consideration at the AGM. Since writing to IGFA they have invited a representative from the NZSFC along with other world fishing bodies to attend a review of their IGFA worldwide fishing rules and regulations next year. The joining of two lines together is one of the many items they intend to discuss in the review. This is the first time representatives from around the globe have been invited to a review of their

If you agree with this approach, member clubs should direct their delegates how they should vote if this proposal is not shelved by the board until after the IGFA review.

The NZSFC was built around IGFA fishing rules and regulations starting back in 1957, when before that the way we fished was far from being ethical or without any consideration given to conservation. These days the Council is involved in the future sustainability of our fishery and is important to recreational fishing which is still our core business. Our fishing rules and regulations are the back bone of the Council that has served us well for the last 58 years. â—† www.nzsportfishing.co.nz â—† 47

STOP PRESS

IONS PETE, T A L U T A R G N O C RESENTATIVE NOW IGFA REP r and council e c ffi o s rd o c re ing NZSFC long serv , Pete Saul, has rs e tt a m ry e h s fi t l say adviser on mos tative. Most wil n e s re p re A F IG been made an is well overdue. t n e tm in o p p a the ’s h New Zealand it w d e lv o v in n r the Pete has bee life, working fo is h f o t s o m r fisheries fo now the owner d n a s e ri e h is F f then Ministr y o at “Lady Jess”. o b r e rt a h c a f at and operator o arine research m in d e lv o v in Pete is also great earch with his s e R e n ri a M r Blue Wate ldsworth. friend John Ho ery, dge of local fish le w o n k t a re g a Pete has his is renowned for d n a , in rl a m y ll rs. especia all fishing matte to h c a ro p p a e common sens

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OBITUARY

Jane

Rooke

t is with great sadness we announce the passing of Jane Rooke, after a long hard battle with illness. Jane was a valued member of the Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club, and had just completed five years’ service as a Delegate.

Our sympathy goes out to her family, friends, and to the Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club. ◆

www.nzsportfishing.co.nz ◆ 49

Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me.

Going to bed at night saying we’ve done something wonderful, that’s what matters to me.

- Steve Jobs

If you’d like to receive future copies of Hooked Up directly to your inbox, you can sign up here

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