Episode 7: One Mistake Is All It Takes: Real Stories from NZ's Deadliest Waters
Send us a textThe West Coast of New Zealand offers world-class fishing but demands extreme respect, with veterans sharing hard-earned wisdom on staying safe in these challenging waters. Five local legends reveal how they've survived decades fishing this untamed coastline while witnessing the sometimes fatal consequences of poor preparation and decision-making.• West Coast fishing described as "second to none" but protected by dangerous conditions• Fishery relatively untapped compared to East Coast due to challenging weather and access• No islands or sheltered harbours to provide safety when conditions deteriorate • Drowning statistics reveal 192 recreational fisher deaths since 1980, with 66% occurring on rocks• Only 26% of rock fishers wear life jackets, while 36% can't swim more than 50 meters• Proper safety gear includes fitted life jackets, appropriate footwear (not gumboots), PLBs• Fishing with mates creates crucial safety network for emergencies• Local fishing clubs provide vital knowledge, assistance and community safety systems• Bar crossings require careful planning around tides, swells and wind conditions• Recovery efforts for drowning victims create lasting trauma for rescuers and familiesIf you're heading out fishing, check weather forecasts, wear appropriate safety gear, tell someone your plans, and remember - no fish is worth your life.Support the showThis Podcast is brought to you by The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council a not for profit, incorporated society funded by its member Clubs. You can find your nearest club herePlease SUBSCRIBE to this podcast to receive new episodes weekly! If you want to hear more episodes like this please consider supporting the podcast here
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Episode 6: Launching Through Surf: West Coast Wisdom and Warnings
Send us a textOur journey takes us to New Zealand's wild west coast, where experienced local fishers share crucial knowledge about surviving the unforgiving surf, beach launches, and bar crossings that make these waters so challenging yet rewarding.• Five west coast legends with decades of frontline experience reveal their hard-earned wisdom• Mark Gill from Manukau Sport Fishing highlights the importance of proper vehicle preparation and weather forecasting• Chris O'Neill and Duncan Clarke from Piha Deep Sea Fishing Club explain why club membership provides essential safety networks• Craig Ross from Muriwai Sports Fishing Club describes his 37 years of beach launching experience and techniques for reading surf conditions• Dr. McKearney from Drowning Prevention Aotearoa emphasizes planning as the foundation of west coast fishing safety• Local knowledge passed through clubs provides crucial information about changing conditions, safe launching spots, and rescue protocols• Proper preparation includes deflating tyres to 10 PSI, carrying spare parts, and always wearing life jackets• Understanding tide, swell, and wind patterns is essential before attempting a west coast launch• The west coast is "self-governing" - its challenging conditions naturally limit fishing pressure and maintain healthy fisheries• Experienced fishers prioritize safety over catching fish, often cancelling trips when conditions appear marginalSupport the showThis Podcast is brought to you by The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council a not for profit, incorporated society funded by its member Clubs. You can find your nearest club herePlease SUBSCRIBE to this podcast to receive new episodes weekly! If you want to hear more episodes like this please consider supporting the podcast here
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Episode 5: The Tragedy Off Gisborne: Lessons from a Fatal Bluefin Expedition
Send us a textThe tragic loss of three fishermen off the Gisborne coast last year sent shockwaves through New Zealand's fishing community. What began as a promising day with a forecast of just five knots of wind quickly deteriorated into a nightmare scenario of 20-knot winds and dangerous sea conditions.Roger Faber, president of the Gisborne-Tatapouri Fishing Club, takes us through that fateful day when experienced club members Elwood Higgins, Taina Sinoti, and Damien McPherson headed offshore to chase bluefin tuna. Despite their experience, the rapidly deteriorating weather caught them in its grip, leading to one of New Zealand sport fishing's darkest chapters.We hear from Henry Van Teel, Hawke's Bay Coast Guard skipper, who provides a gripping account of the rescue attempt amid six-metre swells and 50-knot winds. His team's agonising decision to turn back—despite knowing men were in the water—highlights the brutal risk calculations that sometimes must be made at sea. "There's no point hammering the boat and crew arriving on scene if you can't do anything," Van Teel explains, sharing the Coast Guard's disciplined approach to safety that recreational boaties can learn from.The ripple effects of this tragedy transformed fishing practices nationwide. Hayden Johnson of the Whakatane Sport Fishing Club describes how his members rallied to raise funds for affected families while implementing mandatory safety equipment requirements. Clubs across New Zealand revisited their safety protocols, with increased emphasis on buddy boating, better weather forecasts, and the critical importance of EPIRBs and Personal Locator Beacons.From improved communication systems to fundamental shifts in how fishers approach risk assessment, this powerful episode offers essential lessons for anyone who ventures offshore. As Van Teel poignantly states, "The most important piece of equipment is between your ears." Listen, learn, and ensure you come home safely from your next fishing adventure.Support the showThis Podcast is brought to you by The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council a not for profit, incorporated society funded by its member Clubs. You can find your nearest club herePlease SUBSCRIBE to this podcast to receive new episodes weekly! If you want to hear more episodes like this please consider supporting the podcast here
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Episode 4 : Southern Blue Fin Tuna Part 2
Send us a textUnlock the secrets of top-quality southern bluefin tuna preservation as we explore Japanese techniques with Tony Walker, aka TK from TK's Offshore Fishing. Discover the meticulous ikijime method and the critical steps for rapidly cooling the tuna's core temperature to avoid internal cooking. Learn why handling the fish on foam mattresses and using ice slurries can mean the difference between a premium catch and a wasted effort. We also discuss the high standards set by Japanese buyers and the financial benefits of maintaining these quality practices.Get expert tips from Toby Barkla and Christine Elminger on preserving and processing tuna to ensure it remains in prime condition. We delve into the importance of using ample ice and proper bleeding techniques, as well as the benefits of vacuum packing. Learn why joining local fishing clubs can support marine research and conservation efforts while offering a platform for competitions. We also highlight practical and safety considerations for weighing and gutting fish in tournaments, stressing the importance of careful handling to avoid accidents.Celebrate the success of Southern Bluefin tuna fishing tournaments with us. Hear about the unique cooperation between commercial and recreational fishers and the diverse tactics used in bluefin fishing. John Holdsworth shares insights on sustainable practices, including tagging and releasing fish, to ensure future populations. Finally, we examine the unexpected high turnout at the Whakatane winter tuna tournament and how a creative eating competition led to a surge in club membership. Don't miss these innovative ideas and valuable insights—subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes!Find out more on looking after your Bluefin Tuna catch hereSupport the showThis Podcast is brought to you by The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council a not for profit, incorporated society funded by its member Clubs. You can find your nearest club herePlease SUBSCRIBE to this podcast to receive new episodes weekly! If you want to hear more episodes like this please consider supporting the podcast here
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Episode 3 Southern Bluefin Tuna Revival in Waihau Bay Pt 1
Send us a textSUBSCRIBE for weekly episodes.Experience the thrill of the southern bluefin tuna fishery's resurgence in New Zealand since 2017. When large tuna were first spotted near Cape Runaway, the word spread like wildfire, attracting hundreds of boats and turning Waihau Bay into a bustling hub of activity. Reminisce about those chaotic early days of record-breaking catches and extended seasons, while also considering the logistical challenges faced by local communities. This episode celebrates the monumental impact of a revitalised fishery and the ongoing efforts to balance enthusiasm with practical solutions.This episode starts with Christine Elminger, who relives the moment she heard of the adrift vessel Betty G, and rushed to inform Elroy Thompson. Alongside Tony Walker (TK), Elroy shares the challenges of fishing at Waihau Bay amid treacherous tides and currents. Safety is paramount, and the episode underscores the crucial lessons for anglers, with insights from Toby Barkla of the Whakatane Sport Fishing Club on prudence and preparation for those chasing the elusive bluefin tuna.Finally, we turn to the vital topic of conservation and sustainable sport fishing practices. Advocating for barbless hooks and highlighting the collaborative efforts between recreational and commercial fishers, the episode delves into measures like quota cuts and improved fish handling. Learn how the adoption of techniques from Japan is fostering a sustainable fishing community in New Zealand. As we wrap up, Elroy Thompson shares a compelling story that sets the stage for next week's focus on preserving southern bluefin tuna and the burgeoning interest in high-stakes tournaments. Join us for another week of fascinating insights from the world of New Zealand sport fishing. nzsportfishing.co.nzhttp://fishcare.co.nz/fishcare-southern-bluefin-tuna-guide/http://saferboating.org.nzhttp://facebook.com/tkoffshorefishwaihaubayfishingclub.co.nzwhakatanesportfishingclub.co.nzSupport the showThis Podcast is brought to you by The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council a not for profit, incorporated society funded by its member Clubs. You can find your nearest club herePlease SUBSCRIBE to this podcast to receive new episodes weekly! If you want to hear more episodes like this please consider supporting the podcast here
Welcome to the Pod and Reel podcast, presented by the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, a national body with over 50 affiliated clubs across New Zealand, and over 37,000 members. Since 1957, NZSFC has focussed on setting standards for responsible fishing practices, collating records, organising events like the Nationals, and supporting its affiliated fishing clubs. This podcast dives deep into the history, the people, and the clubs that make up our fishing community. We'll explore the highs and lows of fishing and learn from mistakes made, striving to be better, safer, and smarter when we interact with the water. With 15,000 kilometres of coastline, New Zealand's fishing history is rich with stories of the tussle between us and the sea.Join Mike Plant as we delve into these topics and more on the Pod and Reel podcast, your gateway to the world of all things fishing in New Zealand.
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