In general terms, fishing is the process of extracting fish from the water for human consumption. Fishing must be regulated through some national and international rules that each stakeholder must follow. Besides, there is general etiquette that guides this economic activity.
These include factors such as leaving no trace after fishing. That is, you should ensure that no littering is left behind or anything that can cause damage to the waters and other creatures. Moreover, you should always ensure that you are a conscientious launcher. You should also pay attention to swimming people and others in recreational spots. Also, avoid being a “bent rod” angler. Give other anglers a relatively wide berth to enjoy their activities too.
Apart from fishing etiquette, you should also observe the boating etiquette where you should show courtesy on the water. If you come across someone who needs help, do not hesitate. Help them out because the same thing can happen to you anytime. Besides, if you realize that your wake might cause a problem to another boater, you should try to slow down even when you thought you did not have to. This courtesy is mostly pragmatic and logical; that is, there are no distinct rules that define it, but logic tells us that it is the best thing to do.
Fishing in New Zealand
New Zealand is considered to be one of the world’s leading countries in fishing. There are several fish species in the nation. They include Albacore tuna, Alfonsino, Arroq squid, black orea, blue cod, blue moki, bluenose, blue warehou, bluff (dredge) oysters, broadbill, swordfish, clams, cockles, flounder, gem fish, gropper, hoki, hake, and Jack mackerel among many others.
Since the majority of fishing in New Zealand is done in fresh water, freshwater fish are common in the country. Furthermore, the most common fishing types utilized are fly fishing, angler fishing, boat fishing and line fishing. Each of these is discussed below.
Fly fishing
In fly fishing, an artificial ‘fly’ is utilized to catch the fish. This fly is normally cast by the use of a rod, reel and another specialized weighted line. You need to have advanced casting techniques because to cast a weightless fly; hence, the method used is quite different from the rest. Mostly, the fishermen use hand tied flies which look like a natural invertebrate, baitfish or other that can easily provoke the fish to strike first through biting them. Even though fly fishing can be done anywhere, it is more applicable to fresh water.
Angler fishing
This is a method of fishing commonly utilized in New Zealand where a fish hook is used. This hook is normally attached to a fishing line which is tied to a rod. The fishing rods are normally fitted with a reel which operates as a mechanism for the storage and retrieval of the line. You can strategically place bait on the hook or a lure. Even though it is mostly used in sports fishing, angling is also used for commercial fishing in still waters. There are several species of fish that can be caught by this method of fishing include salmon, cod, and bass. Other targets include the European perch, tench, and catfish.
Boat Fishing
Boat fishing is a method that has been used for a long time by fishermen. Fishing is done from a boat or another similar vessel where nets are cast into the water or other fish traps. Besides, angling can be integrated to catch more fish because of its accuracy. Boat fishing is more effective that other methods used on the land because it is possible to access more fishing grounds in the water. Subsequently, more varieties of fish species are caught. Boat fishing can either be classified as inshore or offshore.
Regarding the former, water below the boat is approximately thirty meters deep. This means that it is just near the shore. In offshore fishing, the boat is taken to the deeper ends of the sea or lake where more fish can be found and caught. This is why it is also referred to as deep sea or open water fishing. Before you chose to perform offshore fishing, make sure to get enough information concerning the weather patterns and other safety and navigation precautions because it is riskier than inshore fishing.
Major Fishing Regions in New Zealand
North Island fishing region
The North Island is one of the most common fishing regions in New Zealand. It has a plentiful supply of endless greenery, the colossal Lake Taupo, and a rainbow trout. It has several snow-capped volcanoes which have given birth to relatively large lakes and other numerous streams that are lightly fished. This makes the North Island a paradise of the fisherman. The overall climate of the area is temperate that allows for retention of water in the sources.
Lower South Island
The Lower South Island of New Zealand is considered one of the most common locations for conduction fly fishing. Queenstown, found in the region, is a fundamental hub where fishermen visit. There are numerous rivers and other water sources where different varieties of fish can be found and caught. There is also fishing mecca of Omarama which is the home of the popular Ahuriri River.
Upper South Island
This is another region that is rich in natural resources suitable for the fishing activities. Several rivers such as Maruia, Motueka, Buller and the Wairau flow in this region. It has top class restaurants and lodges that can host people interested in learning fishing in the region.
Accommodation/Fishing Lodges in New Zealand
The country has modern lodges and hotels that reach the international standards; for example, Cedar Lodge, Fiordland Lodge, among others. Therefore, as a visitor, you can enjoy sporty fishing and excellent resting places.
Fishing news and Events in New Zealand
If you want to acquire some of the fishing news in New Zealand, you can purchase the NZ Fishing News magazine that provides its readers with updates in the industry. There are several fishing clubs which hold annual events, such as the Salmon Anglers Association and the NZFFA.
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