Species: Kahawai (Arripis trutta)
Location: Kuaotunu River, Kuaotunu, Coromandel, New Zealand
Date: February 25, 2014
After going it alone for weeks, my friend David Clarke and I decided to get a charter. We’d planned to chase tuna and kingfish and marlin off the coast with one of this friends, but when that fell through, we scrambled for a backup plan.
With no cell service (I should’ve paid for it, but I was naive and cheap) and WiFi only available at a per-MB fee in hotels and hostels, I didn’t research it as much as I should have. Now I know that you should buy a SIM Card, but then? Nope.
So what we ended up doing was a ‘Land-Based Charter’ with a gentleman who owned a bait shop in a town near where we were staying in the Coromandel region.
He promised us big snapper, kahawai, and chances at other fish as well.
I paid the bill as a thank-you. I mean, he let me stay with him for weeks and saved me thousands of dollars on hotels, so it was the least I could do.
***
It started out pretty well. We met up at sunset and hiked a windswept batch of grassy foothills to a rock landing. The guide tossed out a bag of burley (that’s Kiwi for chum), and we started fishing.
Biodiversity around New Zealand is low, and this day was no different. We caught almost exclusively Australasian Snapper from about half a pound to the three-pound beast David landed. All great-eating fish, but nothing like the Kingfish (very closely related to the Yellowtail found in California) we were hoping for.
***
The day wore on in the beautiful setting, and though fishing wasn’t great, it was entertaining.
The guide’s burley bag got snagged against the cliff face, and for some reason, he decided to dive down and unsnag it. I think it was for show, but it was still pretty badass. He dove down and freed the bag while avoiding any sharks, so I’d count that as a win.
***
In the last few hours of fishing, a school of tuna-like fish starting aggressively feeding. The guide, who was fishing with us and not handing off fish as guides normally do, hooked up first.
This ferocious beast ripped line off of his reel and fought impossibly hard for its apparent size. After a few minutes, he landed it on the rocks. It was roughly the same shape as a trout and probably only 24-25 inches long, but it fought like a 20-pound salmon. I couldn’t believe it.
His fish had hit on the drop, but he didn’t tell us that. He just kept fishing. After he caught #2, I cut off my weight and hooked a pilchard head onto an unweighted hook tied directly to my mainline.
It sunk very slowly and stayed in the eyeline of the prowling fish, and I hooked up almost immediately. This fish fought like crazy. Nothing I’ve caught before or since pulled like that Kahawai, pound-for-pound. I was using a heavy spinning rod with 25-pound mono, and this five-pound fish stretched it to the absolute limit.
I landed several more beasts that day, each one taking an unweighted pilchard head in the churning surf and putting up a fight for the ages. None of them topped seven pounds, but I was physically sore after fighting the last one.
***
We hiked out at day’s end and were shocked to learn the guide had kept most of the fish for himself. Despite catching maybe 50 pounds of fish and then packing it out on our backs for miles, we took home maybe five pounds.
I didn’t tip, and I left a review detailing all of his antics. He was a nice enough guy, but he’d basically charged us $450 NZD to go out and fish with him. He didn’t really guide us, and apart from cleaning the fish (of which he kept 90%), he didn’t do much else.
It wasn’t the worst guided trip I went on, but it was up there. To make matters worse, the guide sent me an angry response on Facebook after I reviewed his service with an (in my opinion) a very generous 3-out-of-5 stars.
I guess it proves there are jerks everywhere.
#SpeciesQuest // #CaughtOvgard
Read the next entry in #SpeciesQuest here: Species #61 — Widow Rockfish.
It’s difficult to get knowledgeable people with this topic, but the truth is could be seen as do you know what you’re referring to! Thanks
7h4ubd
there are many social issues these days and we have different solutions for different social problems;
lkts0i
5h0zb0
8eg6fc
gqxim3
Accusation in court a few things i wanted. I was not necessarily planning on that I’d get a great deal away from reading your own write up! You’ve merely earned your returning customer
we have different sectional sofas at home, i find them very comfortable and easy to setup“
of the asian foods that i tastes, japanese foods and thai foods are the tastiest stuff“
I want looking at and I think this website got some really useful stuff on it! .
This is a great blog and i want to visit this every day of the week ,
I truly appreciated this gorgeous blog. Make sure you keep up the good work. Best Regards .
Do you know this site is suggested by a number of other sites? Great work. Thank you very much!
i love the Bazooka of Megatron, i don’t understand why they did not include it on the movie::
I?ve been exploring for a bit for any high quality articles or blog posts in this kind of house . Exploring in Yahoo I finally stumbled upon this site. Reading this info So i am happy to convey that I have a very just right uncanny feeling I came upon just what I needed. I such a lot definitely will make certain to don?t overlook this web site and provides it a glance regularly.
A growing blog on how to make money online. With the ways to make money online, making money online couldnt be so much easier.
I am frequently to blogging and i also genuinely appreciate your posts. The article has truly peaks my interest. My goal is to bookmark your site and maintain checking choosing details.
Thanks for another magnificent article. The place else may just anyone get that type of info in such a perfect approach of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such info.
The when I just read a blog, I hope so it doesnt disappoint me as much as that one. I am talking about, It was my method to read, but I actually thought youd have something fascinating to express. All I hear is often a bunch of whining about something that you could fix in the event you werent too busy looking for attention.
I would like to point out my love for your generosity supporting persons that should have guidance on in this concept. Your very own dedication to getting the message along was astonishingly functional and has regularly enabled guys and women much like me to achieve their objectives. Your amazing useful guideline denotes so much to me and substantially more to my mates. Best wishes; from everyone of us.
This could be the correct blog for would like to learn about this topic. You already know a great deal of its almost hard to argue together with you (not too I actually would want…HaHa). You certainly put a fresh spin with a topic thats been discussed for some time. Wonderful stuff, just wonderful!
Great articles and great layout. Your blog post deserves all of the positive feedback it’s been getting.
You lost me, friend. Come on, man, I imagine I buy what youre saying. I’m sure what you’re saying, but you just appear to have forgotten that might be a few other folks inside world who view this matter for it is actually and will perhaps not agree with you. You may well be turning away alot of folks that could have been lovers of your respective website.
Im no professional, but I think you just made the best point. You naturally comprehend what youre speaking about, and I can seriously get behind that. Thanks for staying so upfront and so truthful.
When I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox now every time a comment is added I get four emails sticking with the same comment. Will there be by any means you’ll be able to eliminate me from that service? Thanks!
there are many different book genres online but i would really love to read about self help books,.
I would like to get across my admiration for your kindness supporting folks that must have guidance on in this subject matter. Your personal dedication to getting the solution throughout had become particularly advantageous and has encouraged regular people just like me to achieve their pursuits. Your insightful information means a lot to me and substantially more to my fellow workers. Thanks a lot; from all of us.
An fascinating discussion may be worth comment. There’s no doubt that that you simply write read more about this topic, it will not be described as a taboo subject but normally people are insufficient to chat on such topics. An additional. Cheers
Really clear web site , thanks for this post.
Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything like that prior to. So nice to discover somebody by original ideas on this subject. realy appreciate starting this up. this website is one thing that is required on the internet, a person if we do originality. beneficial job for bringing new stuff to the web!
65ldht
I hope you never stop! This is one of the best blogs Ive ever read. Youve got some mad skill here, man. I just hope that you dont lose your style because youre definitely one of the coolest bloggers out there. Please keep it up because the internet needs someone like you spreading the word.
There is apparently a lot to identify about this. I think you made some nice points in features also.
This is novel. If only I possibly could examine every submit, however i will need to go back to perform now… However i’ll come back.
I have really learned some new things through your blog post. Also a thing to I have noticed is that normally, FSBO sellers can reject an individual. Remember, they’d prefer to never use your expert services. But if you maintain a steady, professional romance, offering help and remaining in contact for about four to five weeks, you will usually have the capacity to win a meeting. From there, a listing follows. Thanks
Thank you for the auspicious writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to far added agreeable from you! By the way, how can we communicate?
in business, proper financial planning is very essential and it can make or break a business”
Your blog would increase in ranking if you post more often.—’,
Trusting to make the right decisions can be tough. Many of us develop this ability over the course of our life. Frankly it takes more than just happening to happen.
The the next occasion I read a weblog, Lets hope so it doesnt disappoint me as much as this. I am talking about, I know it was my choice to read, but I personally thought youd have some thing intriguing to say. All I hear is a lot of whining about something you could fix if you werent too busy trying to find attention.
I enjoy what you guys are up too. Such clever work and reporting! Keep up the great works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to my blogroll.
I would really like you to become a guest poster on my blog.*`”-,
You have noted very interesting details! ps decent web site.
Wow! This could be one of the most useful blogs we have ever come across on thesubject. Actually excellent post! I am also an expert in this topic therefore I can understand your effort.
There are a couple of fascinating points with time on this page but I don’t know if these center to heart. There’s some validity but Let me take hold opinion until I look into it further. Great post , thanks and then we want a lot more! Combined with FeedBurner too
Of course like your website but you need to check the spelling on several of your posts. Several of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very bothersome to tell the truth nevertheless I’ll definitely come back again.
Normally I do not read post on blogs, but I would like to say that this write-up very compelled me to check out and do so! Your writing style has been surprised me. Thanks, very nice article. rent a car kosovo
I’m impressed, I have to admit. Truly rarely do I encounter a weblog that’s both educative and entertaining, and let me tell you, you might have hit the nail on the head. Your thought is outstanding; the thing is something inadequate individuals are speaking intelligently about. We are happy we found this at my seek out some thing in regards to this.
*You made some decent points there. I looked on the internet for the issue and found most individuals will go along with with your website.
I would really love to guest post on your blog.”*”.
Hello! I merely would want to provide a enormous thumbs up for the great info you have here for this post. I will be coming back to your site to get more soon.
I want looking at and I think this website got some really useful stuff on it! .
There are certainly a number of details like that to take into consideration. That is a great level to deliver up. I provide the thoughts above as normal inspiration but clearly there are questions like the one you bring up where a very powerful factor can be working in sincere good faith. I don?t know if greatest practices have emerged around issues like that, however I’m positive that your job is clearly identified as a good game. Both boys and girls really feel the impact of just a second’s pleasure, for the remainder of their lives.
This site is often a walk-through for all of the data it suited you with this and didn’t know who need to. Glimpse here, and you’ll definitely discover it.
uezhoa
Appreciating the time and energy you put into your website and detailed information you present. It’s awesome to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same outdated rehashed material. Wonderful read! I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m including your RSS feeds to my Google account.
cheers for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, could you mind updating your blog with more information? as it is extremely useful for me.
pjd28l
Some really wondrous work on behalf of the owner of this site, perfectly great subject material .
How much of an appealing guide, keep on making better half
This is such an informationrmative post and very clearly written. Every single thought and idea is direct to the point. Perfectly laid out. thank you for taking your time sharing this to you readers.
xiw6ay
1de6hh
Getting started is actually fast and easy as well as needs zero techie knowledge. Search engine Adsense possibly offers code for easy execution along with distinct guidelines.
There is noticeably a bundle to comprehend this. I suppose you’ve made certain nice points in functions also.
Very efficiently written article. It will be useful to anyone who employess it, as well as me. Keep up the good work – can’r wait to read more posts.
Hiya. Very cool site!! Man .. Beautiful .. Wonderful .. I will bookmark your web site and take the feeds additionally…I am happy to find numerous useful information here within the post. Thank you for sharing…
Substantially, the post is really the sweetest on this worthw hile topic. I fit in with your conclusions and will thirstily look forward to your next updates. Saying thanks can not simply just be adequate, for the phenomenal clarity in your writing. I can at once grab your rss feed to stay abreast of any updates. Great work and also much success in your business efforts!
you’ve got an ideal blog here! would you prefer to make some invite posts on my weblog?
I’m not positive the place you are getting your info, but great topic. I must spend a while finding out much more or figuring out more. Thank you for magnificent info I was in search of this information for my mission.
i was just surfing along and came upon your blog. just wanted to say good job and this post really helped me.
it does not take too long to learn good piano playing if you have a good piano lesson,,
Thank you, I’ve recently been searching for info about this subject for ages and yours is the best I’ve came upon so far. However, what in regards to the bottom line? Are you certain about the supply?
He is simply not the same Paul Walker, you may recall from his previous films.
pretty valuable material, overall I believe this is really worth a bookmark, thanks
Really nice style and design and wonderful content , nothing else we require : D.
Pretty nice post, I was doing a google search and your site came up for short sales in Altamonte Springs, FL but anyway, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it, keep it up!
Beyonce, who headlined Glastonbury on Sunday evening, was talked about on social network sites much more compared to various other musician at the festival this particular year, according to Brandwatch
You created some decent points there. I looked on the web for that problem and discovered most people may go as well as with your website.
Regardless of the following, if you will find there’s sole wild hair eventually left about our head I’ll however demand a fashionable coiffure.
I’d ought to seek advice from you here. Which isn’t some thing It’s my job to do! I spend time reading a post that could make people believe. Also, thanks for allowing me to comment!
I am glad to be one of the visitors on this great site (:, appreciate it for posting.
You produced some decent points there. I looked on the internet for the problem and discovered most people may go along with along with your web site.
This was novel. I wish I could read every post, but i have to go back to work now… But I’ll return.
Thanks, I’ve recently been looking for info approximately this subject for a long time and yours is the best I have found out so far. But, what about the conclusion? Are you certain in regards to the source?
when taking your watch for a repair, always look for a reputable and experienced watch repairman;;
Hey dude. what kind of wordpress theme are you using? i want it to use on my blog too ,
This site is my aspiration , really great layout and perfect subject matter.
Great guide plus easy so that you can comprehend description. Exactly how can I actually approach getting authorization so that you can post part of your guide at my upcoming newsletter? Providing proper consumer credit back a article writer plus website to your web-site wouldn’t often be a problem.
Vi ringrazio, ho trovato che quanto scritto non sia completamente corretto
Some truly nice stuff on this internet site , I like it.
It’s actually a great and useful piece of info. I am glad that you shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
There are incredibly plenty of details this way to take into consideration. Which is a wonderful examine mention. I supply the thoughts above as general inspiration but clearly you’ll find questions like the one you retrieve the spot that the most critical thing is going to be doing work in honest excellent faith. I don?t determine if recommendations have emerged about such things as that, but Most likely that the job is clearly recognized as a reasonable game. Both girls and boys feel the impact of simply a moment’s pleasure, through-out their lives.
I’ve looked all around for this details. You have been actually beneficial. Thanks so significantly. Download Pokemon Black and Pokemon White Rom Leaked!
A very informative film that helps me understand how complex the world financial landscape has become.
Your blog has the same post as another author but i like your better.”`,`
I’m curious to find out what blog system you happen to be utilizing? I’m having some small security issues with my latest site and I would like to find something more safe. Do you have any recommendations?
eye care should always be our top priority since the eye is a very delicate and irreplaceable organ’
When I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and today when a comment is added I recieve four emails with the same comment. Perhaps there is by any means you’ll be able to get rid of me from that service? Thanks!
Hi for super synopsis, but then I am glad for totally howling the Zune, and moreover pray such a, together with very good ratings some other type of a lot more made, beneficial analyse if is it doesn’t right choice for you.
Usually I don’t read post on blogs, but I wish to say that this write-up very forced me to try and do so! Your writing style has been surprised me. Thanks, very nice post.
Generally I don’t read post on blogs, but I wish to say that this write-up very forced me to check out and do it! Your writing style has been amazed me. Thanks, very great post.
i would always love to hear those christmas music with a very happy tune’
Hello there! This is type of off subject but I need to have some guidance from an established website. Is it difficult to set up your private website? I’m not really techincal but I can figure issues out pretty rapid. I’m contemplating about generating my own but I’m not sure exactly where to start. Do you have any points or ideas? Numerous many thanks
oh well, American Dad is a nice tv series. my sixteen year old daughter just loves watching it**
Excellent website. Lots of helpful info here. I’m sending it to several buddies ans additionally sharing in delicious. And naturally, thank you to your effort!
Wonderful blog! I found it while searching on Yahoo News. Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in Yahoo News? I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there! Cheers
mobile devices are always great because they always come in a handy package;
power tools can really save you from a lot of headache, specially when the job is very hard-
Fantastic goods from you, man. I have understand your stuff previous to and you’re just too excellent. I really like what you’ve acquired here, certainly like what you are stating and the way in which you say it. You make it entertaining and you still take care of to keep it wise. I can’t wait to read much more from you. This is actually a wonderful web site.
Good day, it’s it will be absent from study even so any kind of, i have been previously surfing within your websites and seeks clearly in fact organized. I’m just building a unique web page and thus under pressure to get it look good, whenever my partner work on element my spouse and i screw it up. By what method really tough provides the actual to develop your site? May possibly some criminal much like me without any subsequent have achieve it, as well offer family renovation pages of content devoid of having destroying it again all the time?
Really Interested site this is.. I really Enjoy a lot reading your Blog.. I will Bookmark your site for more reference.
I conceive other website proprietors should take this internet site as an model, very clean and superb user friendly design and style.
I have been gone for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thanks, I will try and check back more often. How often do you update your web site?
I adore foregathering useful information , this post has got me even more info! .
What platform and theme are you using if I may ask? Where can I buy them? .
lr6jm1
Merely interested, exactly what wp theme are you using since it seems awesome?