Yellowtail Kingfish Fishing in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
General Information
Yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) is a powerful and prized sport fish found along New Zealand's coasts, including the waters of Hawke's Bay. Known for their speed, strength, and fighting ability, kingfish are a favorite among anglers.
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Seasons
Best Months: December to March (summer through early autumn).
During these months, kingfish are more active and often found closer to shore, feeding on bait schools.
Winter: While less common, kingfish can still be caught around offshore reefs and structures.
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Tackle
Rod: 7-8 ft medium-heavy spinning or overhead rods.
Reel: High-capacity spinning reels (6000–10000 size) or overhead reels with strong drag systems.
Line: 30–80 lb braided line with a fluorocarbon leader of 60–100 lb.
Terminal Tackle: Use strong swivels, split rings, and hooks to withstand their aggressive strikes and fighting power.
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Lures and Baits
Topwater Lures: Popper lures and stickbaits are highly effective. Cast them around reefs, pinnacles, or bait schools.
Jigs: Metal jigs (200–400 g) for vertical jigging near underwater structures.
Live Bait: Kahawai, mackerel, or squid are excellent for live baiting.
Dead Bait: Pilchards and fresh squid.
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Fishing Areas in Hawke's Bay
Inshore Reefs and Structures: Kingfish often patrol the reefs and rocky areas close to the shore.
Pania Reef: A well-known reef near Napier offering excellent opportunities for kingfish.
Deeper Offshore Reefs: Located further out in the bay; ideal for jigging and live baiting.
FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices): If present, these are magnets for kingfish.
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General Tips
1. Use Electronics: A good fish finder (e.g., Lowrance HDS) helps locate bait schools and underwater structures where kingfish congregate.
2. Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon often yields the best results.
3. Drift Fishing: Drift over reef structures to cover more ground with jigs or baits.
4. Tide Movement: Fish during tide changes, when kingfish are actively feeding.
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Coast of Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
Geography: Stretching from Mahia Peninsula to Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay features diverse marine habitats, including sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and deep offshore reefs.
Marine Life: Apart from kingfish, you can encounter snapper, kahawai, gurnard, and tuna species.
Charters: Numerous fishing charters operate out of Napier and other coastal towns, offering tailored trips for kingfish and other species.
Weather: Hawke's Bay can experience strong coastal winds, so monitor forecasts for safety.
