Snapper Fishing

Snapper 
The Snapper or "Tamure" as it is called in Maori is not only the most commercially caught species in New Zealand but also one of New Zealand's most popular and sought after fish by recreational fishermen.
The Snappers popularity owes much to the fact that not only are they a good fighting fish, which makes for exciting fishing, but they are also an excellent table fish

Snapper will eat just about anything. They feed on shellfish, sea eggs (kina), crustaceans, jellyfish, and small fish species such as pilchards and sprats. The best baits to use apart from shellfish are the commercially  packaged frozen bait, such as trevally, squid, or pilchards. Many New Zealand fishermen prefer bonito, with its potent, oily smell.
Snapper can be caught with bait or by jigging small lures but in the Bay of Islands the most common method of snapper fishing is with bait.
Snapper fishing is a popular, almost traditional New Zealand holiday pastime for all the family. Many children remember a snapper as their first catch while for adults, and the more experienced fishermen, there is always the chance of catching the big, old, 12 to 14 kilo fish.

Good catch of  snapper on Skipper Jim

New Zealand's snapper fishing is managed by a strict quota system, which allow only a set amount of snapper to be taken commercially each year. For the recreational fishermen there is a maximum daily limit of nine fish per person and a minimum size of 27cm.

Snapper caught on the middle reef in the Bay of Islands

If you are planning a New Zealand fishing holiday in the Bay of Islands and need our advice on the best times to come, where to stay or any other local information please don't hesitate to contact us. If you want to talk fishing, we can do that all day.