Brian Murphy, chief organiser of this year’s Mokihinui Fishing
Competition, advises that the competition is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Stalwarts Ron and Helen Bennett will again be volunteering as weighmasters. To mark the occasion, a special draw is being made for all ticket holders, with a first prize of $400 in the senior section and $100 for the junior fishers.
Although the fishing area extends from Granity School to the Old Man Rock, the main area surfcasters use is the Gentle Annie Beach. Signage on the narrow winding De Malmanches Road that accesses Gentle Annie Beach was upgraded last year by the Buller District Council, resulting in much safer driving and minimal mishaps.
You need robust surfcasting gear to successfully fish West Coast beaches and this includes 14 foot rods and wire grip sinkers. Twice daily weigh-ins for the ten-day competition, 26 December 2022 to 4 January 2023, will be at the Mokihinui Pub ‘n’ Grub Hotel, where a newly installed noticeboard will keep you up to date with results.
A lot of volunteers over the past 50 years have provided an enhanced, enjoyable Christmas holiday fishing experience for many fishers and their families. We say, ‘Thank You’ to you all and long may it continue.
