Encircled by two shorelines as well as twin harbours the angling Mecca of Auckland is a fishing enthusiast’s dream come true. With its oceans littered with snappers and hoards of Kahawai this angler’s hub is perfectly geared for fishing fans of varying skill levels as one could grip a snapper at the end of one’s fishing line here in a matter of minutes. A thriving angling epicentre all year round the climatic and fishing conditions of Auckland remains the same throughout the year making it a one-stop fishing Mecca for the masses. Fishing safaris therefore are organized by a number of operators that offer state-of-the-art equipment, local know-how and expert advice to novice and expert fishing enthusiasts on how to make the most of their sea bound expedition.
Setting off on board vessels such as a 57-foot MV Tracker II a typical fishing safari tour encompasses a tank with live bait, top notch fishing tackle, state-of-the-art electronic and Simrad GPS equipment as well as BBQ facilities. Most fishing safaris in Auckland travel around the Waitemata Harbour which is renowned as the country’s premier snapper fishing hotspot. Littered with 25 stunning islets the venue provides idyllic fishing spots for beginners as well as seasoned fishermen.
Other fishing epicentres in Auckland include the Motuihe Channel where a big catch is guaranteed with the early morning tide. The Crusoe Rock-Park Point which lies in the channel nestled between Waiheke Island and Papakohatu on the other hand is perfect for catching Pipers and Kingfish that swim up with the current. The area near the Rangitoto lighthouse, just off Cheltenham Beach and the eastern quarter of Brown Island are also prime venues for trapping schools of marine life while Duders Beach offers fishermen snappers and Kahawais. Musick Point is a great night time fishing spot while the region near Kawakawa Bay is an equally fertile fishing ground.
Travellers can select a casual fishing expedition with a group on weekends or hire a private charter for fishing on an hourly basis. Ranging from four hours to eight the length of the excursion is up to the anglers although the number of anglers on each expedition is at the discretion of the tour operators.
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Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.