Early start and fine weather make for great fishing

Former WHS student Jamie Newell with the winning 4.6kg cray and another at 4.2kg.
PHOTO / Bevan Conley

Fine weather and good conditions made for a successful weekend of fishing at the 29th annual Whanganui Manawatu fishing competition.

A total of 273 anglers across 81 boats dropped their rods in the hope of reeling in the big one over the long weekend.

"We had an awesome weekend and were able to get in two days of great fishing, with some big fish being weighed in over all the prize categories," Wanganui Manawatu Sea Fishing Club secretary Jane Laugesen said.

"The committee would really like to thank our sponsors for their support. Without them we wouldn't be able to put on such a great event. We really appreciate everything they do for us."

The weather was favourable for fishing both days. The competitors were out of bed early, as the competition had a new start time of 5.30am.

The new two day format was an "absolute success", Laugesen said, with an increase in the number of boats and competitors.

Paul Laugesen, Jane's father, said he has been in every competition since it began 29 years ago.

He competed again this year and said it was an excellent weekend.

"We got away both days and it was run very well this year.

"It's gradually becoming more popular every year, I'll be back next year."

The total number of fish weighed in over the two days was 471.

Laugesen said the club would really like to put an emphasis on how much they appreciate their sponsors.

Result for Trevally winner - Kane Waktin 4.085kg (another former WHS stduent).

By Charlotte Carter
Wanganui Chronicle 24/1/18