Just wondering if anyone knows what techniques are used there( Rigs and baits, for instance). I’ve only read about rock fishing in the North Island and I was kind of confused when Alan wrote he uses sinkers…
Hi, it all depends on what you’re targeting as to what rigs/bait to use. Personally I just use the same rigs that I use surfcasting which is just a 2 hook ledger rig, and when fishing off the rocks it pays to use a sinker that isn’t likely to get snagged. If you look at some tackle stores you’ll find a product called “Lead Lifts” which you attach above your sinker and they will move to the top of the water when you wind your trace in.
lead lifts still get snagged and cost a packet, use a weak link on the bottom of your ledger rig to allow the sinker to easily break off and use old nuts and bolts as sinkers.
Yes they still get snagged if you cast right into some weed, but it will prevent getting snagged on the retrieve. Also a lighter section of line to the sinker is always a good idea.
The big female lemons should be moving in shortly to give birth, fishing a crab bait could be worth a try. In saying that, a location like Black Rock would not be my first choice.
You’re allowed to catch crabs at the Pier, but there’s a size limit on the size of the crab catchers I think. Would be easier to do it off a wharf around Lyttleton or maybe diamond harbor.