Fishing: Rain continues at Doubtless Bay competition

Dark weather over Doubtless Bay put a damper on a recent fishing competition.

Terrible weather resulted in a less than memorable turnout at the most recent Doubtless Bay Light Line and Rod Fishing Club competition.

Club spokeswoman Liz Virgo said the event held earlier this month had again been accompanied by easterly winds and rain, thanks to the La Nina pattern which has been so prevalent this summer.

This meant anglers either did not venture far, or not fish altogether, resulting in few fish brought to the scales, and changed the proposed beach gathering for the prizegiving to be held under the shelter of the local bowling club.

"It's certainly been a trying summer of weather for many so far."

A total of six snapper and one kahawai were eventually weighed in and congratulations went to all those who gave it a go. Results were, Dive Shed Trophy for heaviest snapper: Will Smith 3.38kg 1, Darrell Parker 2.76kg 2; heaviest kahawai: Rick Stacey 2.10kg, and, Richard Fox Memorial Trophy for average weight snapper: Bill Dimento 1.62kg.

Ms Virgo congratulated new member Will Smith for winning one of the two trophies up for grabs in the event.

"You have obviously found some good fishing spots."

She said format for the two trophies were changed a little as one is traditionally held during the season closing Matai Bay weekend camp contest.

However, due to a restriction on fishing in that area at present, the club ran both competitions together, meaning the heaviest snapper won one trophy, while the average weight winner was presented with the other.

She also reminded anglers that even if they didn't have a catch for weigh in, it would still be nice to see as many as possible attend future events for a chat, keep up to date with club activities, meet newbies and contribute to the various raffles where the proceeds all go back in to the club coffers.