DEEP SEA ANGLERS

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 127, 3 June 1929, Page 12

DEEP SEA ANGLERS

STILL BUSY

Although it is the end of May, writes a Russell correspondent, it has' been proved that big game fish are still plentiful in the fishing grounds .off Cape Brett, and there seems to be no.reason ■why this thrilling sport cannot be indulged in all the year round. Anglers who have frequented the Northern waters during the summer months have hitherto been under the impression that big game fishing is a sport for a few months in the year. only. During the last few days not only have swordfish been observed close alongside Piercy Island, but also thresher sharks, makos, and kingfish. Specimens of the last two kinds of game fish mentioned have been successfully landed on rod and line. Major G. B. Holdsworthj an English sportsman who is visiting New Zealand on business, being a good sailor, ventured out to Pierey Island in weather anything but favourable, and after trolling for the required number of kahawai for bait, proceeded to fish for bigger game. As soon as the line was cast over the .side of the launch a decided tug was felt, and the line was reeled off at a great rate, but, unfortunately, a spring broke in the new reel and the fish evaded capture. Another line was immediately baited and cast over the side,' and in less than half an hour away went the lino at a terrific rate. The "angler struck, and struck hard, and the fight began in earnest. During the struggle, which lasted over an hour, tho strain was so great thafe'the top portion of the rod broke, and Major Holdsworth had to fight Ids prize to a finish with the broken portion of the rod hanging on the line. On the fish being gaffed it was discovered that it had been foul hooked. This inako, when brought into Otehei Bay to be recorded, turned the scales at 1801b. Mr. Stonncx had several encounters with the big fish, but was not successful in landing one, owing to the heavy sea running at the time. Mr. Stonnex had a fight for five hours with a big marlin, but the fish broke away. Mr. Stonnex is 70 years of age, and put up a great effort. • Later, Major Holdsworth landed a huge mako, 3811b. It was brought alongside the launch no fewer than four times, to be gaffed, but off it dashed each time to a distance of 200 yards, and the angler had a great struggle with his prize.. It bit at the launch, slashed about with its big tail, and drenched all on board before it was finally captured.