My husband's dream in life is to have a house where he can fish from his bedroom. I'm not sure about having writhing, dying fish on my bedroom floor, or the impact of pungent fish odour on my bed linen. Like I said, it is my husband's dream. However, I have no objection to fishing in the sea, river or lake – faraway from my Egyptian cotton sheets.
Fishermen near and far love to take advantage of these balmy months of long evenings to fish. Down in Christchurch we don't have the plethora of fishing spots as those up North. However, we have a most wonderful fish that “runs” in these warmer months – the humble Kahawai.
Once thought of as a “poorman's fish” its reputation has flourished in recent times as people learn how fun it is to catch and delicious when prepared right. Kahawai certainly lives up to its Maori name – Kaha meaning strong and wai, water. Once hooked they put up a good fight, thrashing and jumping up out of the water. Definitely a sight that gets the adrenalin pumping of those with fishing in their blood..
As these “kaha” fish put up a good fight, you will need a good quality reel and very sharp hooks. No messy bait is needed, just a good shiny lure. Kahawai especially like bright blues, yellow and red. Although each fisherman will have his own theories on his most successful colour.
Kahawai are often caught at river mouths, where the river meets the sea. When the schools come in is dependant on tides, food source and weather patterns. It helps to get a bit of local knowledge if you are new to the area or holidaying.
Or you could just grab your rod, head out to a river mouth and have a chat to the anglers out there. When it's a passion they love to share knowledge (or brag!)
'Tis The Season
To Go Fishing
By Laura-Rose
06