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
--------
55:31
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
--------
35:07
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
--------
27:07
Episode 1 : An Unplanned Swim Part 1
Send us a textWhat happens when a tranquil fishing trip turns into a life-and-death struggle against the elements? This episode brings you the gripping tale of Will Fransen and his ill-fated solo fishing adventure. Will's love for the sea, which began in his childhood, drove him to purchase his dream boat, Betty G. However, a seemingly perfect summer holiday quickly transformed into a nightmare when he unexpectedly fell overboard while trying to release a marlin. Find out how a day filled with excitement and anticipation morphed into a desperate fight for survival.Will's story is more than just harrowing—it’s a testament to human resilience and the sheer will to survive. Dressed in a simple hat, t-shirt, and sandals, Will recounts how he struggled to stay afloat for 23 and a half hours. Despite losing his jandals and watch, he managed to keep his hat on throughout the ordeal. Listen as he shares the critical moments of his experience: from the initial panic to the strategic decisions he made to stay alive, like draining water with a watch buckle and using his gear for buoyancy.As the night drew on, Will faced physical exhaustion, shivering, and the eerie glow of bioluminescent plankton, all while clinging to the hope of rescue with the sunrise. Morning brought not just sunlight but also wind and waves, adding another layer of challenge to his already dire situation. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness for anyone who ventures out to sea alone. Tune in next week for part two, where we’ll explore the dramatic moments of Will's rescue and his emotional return to land.https://www.buzzsprout.com/2360073/supporters/newhttps://www.nzsportfishing.co.nz/https://saferboating.org.nz/https://www.tpsfc.co.nz/https://www.coastguard.nz/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
--------
26:22
Episode 2: An Unplanned Swim Part 2
Send us a textWhat if a simple wristwatch and the will to survive were all that stood between you and the endless sea? This week, we unravel the gripping story of Will Franson, who fought against hallucinations and the elements while stranded off the coast of New Zealand. His tale of despair turns to hope with the unexpected arrival of Skipper Max White and his friends, James MacDonald and Tyler Tafts, whose quick actions transformed a life-threatening situation into a remarkable rescue.Our journey doesn’t end with Will's rescue. We shift focus to the arduous mission to recover the Betty G, the vessel from which Will fell. With days of aerial searches and maritime alerts, the suspense builds until the boat is finally located ashore near Waihau Bay. The operation to bring Betty G back is fraught with challenges, but the tenacity of the crew and the emotional bond with the boat’s original builder, Russell, shine through. This segment captures the essence of resilience and the deep connections we form with our seafaring crafts.Finally, we reflect on the critical lessons drawn from these harrowing experiences. From the indispensable use of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) to the importance of logging trip reports and ensuring everyone aboard knows basic boat operations, this episode is a powerful reminder of the need for boating safety. Next week get ready for our next adventure, where we explore a new fishery for southern bluefin tuna and catch up with Tony Walker from TK offshore fishing, and Elroy Thomson and Christine Almiger, who were involved in the recovery Betty G.https://www.nzsportfishing.co.nz/https://saferboating.org.nz/https://www.tpsfc.co.nz/https://www.coastguard.nz/https://www.hutchwilco.co.nz/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
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.
Australia