FISHING AT OTAKI.

Otaki Mail, Volume 26, 17 October 1919, Page 3

FISHING AT OTAKI.

COMPANY TO BE FORMED. -4 meeting of residents, convened by Mr A. J, Knocks, was held in the Druids’ Hall, Otaki, last night for the purpose of considering the advisability of securing a boat for fishing purposes off the Otaki beach. Mr Byron Brown presided, and in pointing out the advantages to be derived by entering into such an enterprise, stated that Otaki was favoured with a good beach, a fine fishing ground, and he predicted that big hauls could be made a few hours, which would not only bring down the cost of living, but be a God-scud to lovers of fish and the community in general. While the ocean at Otaki "was teeming with fish residents in the town were practically starving for the want of them, and ho thought if affairs were properly worked ample fish would be caught for local consumption, and many Put on Hie Wellington market. It, was impossible to get off the beach, said Mr Brown, with aUargo boat, and the meeting had been called together to discuss the make most suitable to secure, together with ways and means of purchasing it. He thought a ship’s boat, if manned by a few hefty Maoris, would do the work required. At AVaikanae fisherman were making fortunes, while at Lyall Bay a similar tiling was taking place, therefore why should not Otaki do well? Personally, he would help to supply the capital required, and suggested a company be formed. Mr Knocks said in by-gone days residents used to go out in canoes and come back laden with fish. He assured the meeting that there wore excellent fishing grounds off the beach, and poinfed out that many residents had promised him support. He thought it now advisable to form a committee; and arrange for the purchase of a suitable boat. The Chairman said he was anxious to ree the project a success, and was prepared to find a quarter of the capital if three others would find the remainder. He also suggested that the boat be let out, the owners to have one-third of the catch, and the crew the remaining two-tliirds. Personally he favoured a surf boat.

Mr E. Greathead said lie was willing to contribute £25 towards the proposal. It was proposed by Mr Knocks, seconded by Mr Bowden, that the chairman be appointed to inquire into the cost of a suitable boat, together with equipment. and also the price of a launch, and report at a future. meeting. Air C. Ferry, who has fished from Wanganui to Kapiti, spoke of the ex-' cetleut fishing grounds, and gave useful advice as to the class of boat required. Mr J. R. Bills gave interesting accounts of days of fishing of years ago, and accounts of the Maoris- borrowing the ship’s boats when he was on the Weathersficid. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr Knocks for the trouble he had taken in the matter.