DEMONSTRATION FOR ANGLERS

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29326, 4 October 1960, Page 17

DEMONSTRATION FOR ANGLERS

Competition Held For Biggest Fish

To mark the opening of the fishing season in Rangtora, a casting demonstration and lecture was given by Mr G. Ferris, author of “Fly Fishing in New Zealand," and a prize was offered for the largest catch. This was the first time activities of this nature had been organised in the district; both were independently arranged by two local firms to stimulate interest in the sport. The demonstration, held at the Ashley bridge on Sunday, was attended by between 200 and 300 persons, and continued for about three hours. Mr Ferris showed methods of casting, described types of tackle and their uses, and the knots best used with various flies. Members of the audience, which included all age groups, were given an opportunity of showing their methods so that faults could be explained to them by Mr Ferris.

Mr Ferris, using a standard eight foot six inch rod, demonstrated on the water for only about half an hour. He spent most of the time casting on the shingle to afford spectators a better view. Heaviest Fish Caught The prize, offered for the first time in the district, will be an annual fixture from now on. One guinea was offered for the heaviest trout caught by a junior fisherman (up to 17 years) and two guineas for the best senior catch. The store offering the prize was open from 5 p.m. to ,6 p.m. on Saturday to weigh the catch, and a large crowd of spectators was present. The heaviest catch by a junior was 11b 8oz; as the runner-up was only an ounce lighter both received a guinea. The senior catch was a fine specimen for the beginning of the seajon weighing 81b loz, taken by Mr Colin Wheeler during the morning.

The organisers said they were disappointed that no women contended, and next year a special invitation will be extended to them with a separate prize. Fishing is one of the most popular pastimes In the district, and it was probable that an anglers' club would be farmed in Rangiora in a short time, according to Mr H. Clark, one of the most experienced anglers in the district.