How & where to catch Snapper

Its everyone's favorite and here's how you hook em!

Snapper is the most popular sport and table fish in New Zealand, and the Hauraki Gulf is one of the best places to catch them. Snapper can be caught in the Hauraki Gulf year-round, but the best time to fish for them is in spring and early summer, when they migrate close inshore to feed before and after spawning.

Where to fish

Snapper can be found all over the Hauraki Gulf, but some of the best spots to fish for them include:

• Rangitoto and Motuihe Channels

• Firth of Thames

• Coromandel Peninsula

• Great Barrier Island

• Waiheke Island

When to fish

The best time to fish for snapper in the Hauraki Gulf is at dawn and dusk, when the light is low and the fish are more active. However, snapper can be caught at any time of day, especially if you are using berley to attract them.

How to fish

There are a variety of ways to catch snapper in the Hauraki Gulf, including:

• Slow-jigging: Slow-jigging is a popular technique for catching snapper in the Hauraki Gulf, especially in depths of 20-60m. To slow-jig, simply drop your jig to the bottom and then slowly wind it up, giving it a few twitches and drops along the way.

• Soft-baiting: Soft-baiting is another effective way to catch snapper in the Hauraki Gulf, especially in shallower water (less than 20m). To soft-bait, simply cast your soft-bait ahead of your drift and then slowly retrieve it with a few twitches and drops.

• Stray-lining: Stray-lining is a traditional way to catch large snapper in the Hauraki Gulf. To stray-line, simply cast a large bait away from the boat or shore and allow it to sink slowly towards the bottom.

Tips for catching snapper in the Hauraki Gulf

Here are a few tips for catching snapper in the Hauraki Gulf:

• Use the right gear: Snapper are a strong fish, so you need to use gear that is up to the job. A medium- to heavy-action rod and reel with braided line is ideal.

• Use fresh bait: Snapper are attracted to fresh bait, such as squid, mussels, and pilchards.

• Use berley: Berley is a great way to attract snapper to your fishing spot. Berley can be made from a variety of things, such as fish scraps, bread crumbs, and shellfish.

• Be patient: Snapper can be fickle feeders, so it is important to be patient and persistent.

The Hauraki Gulf is a great place to catch snapper year-round. With a little local knowledge and effort, you can enjoy some great fishing and catch some delicious snapper to take home.