Hauraki Gulf

fishing report

Supplied by

Grant Bittle

Fishing Coach Pro

Tackling the December slowdown with shallow water softbaiting
Note: If map is showing it is created by LINZ / New Zealand Hydrographic Authority and made available by Creative Commons 3.0. Maps should not be used for navigation

Tackling the December slowdown with shallow water softbaiting

December traditionally sees a slowdown in snapper feeding around NZ, but this varies. Currently, fishing in the inner shallower channels with softies and micros is recommended. Areas like Rangitoto, Motuhie, Sergeants, north channel Kawau, and the downtown Auckland Tamaki Strait are prime spots. The weedless rig could be particularly useful here.

Big barrels of tuna have been caught off the Bay of Islands, marking the start of the big game season. The 200gm trolling Squidwings is an excellent lure for marlin or tuna, known for its distinctive surface water splash and effectiveness while trolling.

Weedless softbaits

During a presentation last week at KP Marine in Wellington, the evolution of softbaits (SBs) was discussed, highlighting their transformation from 'one-hit-wonders' to advanced, durable designs. The materials used now resist bite-offs far better than those from just a few years ago. Modern SBs feature realistic surface contours and moulding, with a variety of colours, contrasts, shapes, and sizes. The presentation methods have also improved, offering lifelike action and movement, making them effective in deeper waters and for targeting species like bass, hapuka, kingfish, and bluenose. The versatility of softbaiting, adaptable to various fishing conditions and preferences, has led to fewer fishless stories and more rewarding catches.

For those tired of snags when softbaiting, especially in kelpy, weedy areas, the solution is a weedless rig. The Catch LIVIES, for example, have a design feature that helps them glide through such terrain, minimizing snags. The narrow top-slot on the Livies is specifically moulded for this rig, ideal for land-based fishing or in snag-prone areas.

Check out the video on rigging weedless softbaits.

Call out for a Catch Fishing Christmas

As Christmas approaches, it's a great time to browse through the Catch Facebook Catalogue for fishing gear ideas.

Cheers,

Espresso.

Get out there for a low weekly fee!

Awesome adventures on the water start with a new Suzuki outboard and great Fully Fitted offers. Get out there with a low weekly fee and no deposit finance from just $55 a week. Lending criteria, T&Cs & fees apply.

Angler's Planet
Angler's Planet

NZ Fishing World presents Angler's Planet

Buy and sell in the marketplace, post and comment on fishing reports and forums, AI-assisted trip planning. Beta access coming.

Register now!

Previous reports

Drop NZ Fishing World a line!

When we get home and clean the boat we'll get back to you.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.