SEA ANGLER’S PARADISE

Hokitika Guardian, 5 January 1926, Page 4

SEA ANGLER’S PARADISE

SWORDFISH AND SHARKS. AUCKLAND, Jan. 2. If there is anything that makes Now Zealand a popular holiday resort it is the lure of fishing. The many lakes and streams and the waters off the coastline afford some of the most exhilarating sport the world can offer. The fishing attractions are a national asset, for hundreds of visitors yearly come from overseas to enjoy them, and consequently a large amount of money is circulated. Furthermore, the Dominion is, advertised, greatly overseas on account of , its fishing resources. It is only during the past few years that New Zealand has come to he known overseas as tho fisherman’s "paradise. It is also only within recent times that New Zealand sportsmen themselves have come to realise that they have, right at their very doors, sports of a kind that cannot be excelled anywhere. Every year sees a greater number of visitors from overseas, and this season is expected to he a record one.

With regard to deep-sea fishing for swordfish and mako shark, Russell is already almost fully hooked for January and succeeding months. All the launches have lieen reserved for some time ahead and, provided the weather is suitable, fish should he plentiful. Tauranga and Mercury Bay should also attract large numbers of sportsmen.

It is interesting to note that since last season Mercury Bay has been established as a. deep-sea fishing centre ;i a. proper basis. A club known a,s the Mercury Bay Swordfish and Mako Shark Club has been formed, and tho sport is being controlled as in other centres. Launches can he hired and arrangements have been made tor the weighing of fish. Speaking of sword-fishing, ail experienced sportsman stated that innuineiablc grounds on the blast Coast had yet to be discovered. A. school of swordfish had lieen seen the other day off Opotiki. As far as the number, .of sportsmen who will visit Now Zealand from overseas is concerned, the Tourist Department is in tho dark. Except in a few oases, visitors from overseas do not herald their arrival, and until • they make inquiries about accommodation their mission here is not known. However, Mr Zanc Grov, the famous American novelist, is due in New Zealand early in February and will proceed to Russell for deep-sea sport. The American yacht Kaimiloa, with the owner, Mr M. R. Kcllum. and party, will also visit Russell. _____