What you can expect when you embark on a fishing charter.
You have booked your charter and are ready to jump onboard the vessel in search for the biggest fish ever caught in this millennium. The first thing you should do is hold that thought! The reality is, there are so many variables that you need to take into consideration before you gear up to take on the big Great White of 2019.
Fish Species.
Before you start comparing catch sizes to an image you see online, it is important to remember what fish species live in the waters you are about to fish. Common fish species found in New Zealand waters are Cod, Kingfish and Snapper, to name a few. Once you know the type of fish in the areas you will visit, take time to research the average size of each species. Otago waters can often find Bluecod, Kahawai and Sea Perch, but did you know? The average Sea Perch is 10-30cm long and that the Kahawai can only reach up to 65cm in length!
Knowing the fish species that habitat the waters you are going to fish in doesn't mean you will only catch those fish types each and every time you hit the open water (click here to see Ezifish Charters fish gallery) but even the most experienced fishermen can't fight the odds sometimes.
Fish species is not the only factor when it comes to landing your big catch out on a charter. Weather conditions play the largest role for any amateur or experienced fishermen alike. From the amount of light in the sky to blustering storms, understanding weather conditions is vital when determining how much or little your may catch.
Water Temperatures.
Fish are controlled by water temperatures, as they cannot regulate their own body temperature. The colder the water, the slower and more lethargic they are. In contrast, the warmer the sea temps the higher the fish' metabolism is; meaning they eat more! Fish will swim to find the best conditions for them to habitat in. On colder days they may move more inshore to warmer shallow waters and on warm days you may find them feeding in the open sea.
Wind Currents.
Fish are predators and as such need food. Wind currents play a large role in where fish go, or more specifically where their food goes. Downwind shorelines bear the brunt of currents, bringing zooplankton and small baitfish, attracting with it larger predator fish...the fish you are hoping to catch!
Swell.
A large swell or heavy sea roll can affect fish species and their habitats. By now you know fish change their environmental conditions (at any given time) to help them survive, this means having a supply of bait to feed from. Waves cause fish to have decreased visibility for feeding, fish will either go to the surface to feed or find water with better clarity.
A lot goes into getting the fishing conditions right for each and every charter. It is important to use experienced fishing experts to ensure you are able to reach your catch potential. When you book your next charter, educate yourself on the waters you will fish in, the fish species in that area and weather conditions leading up to your departure.
If you want to talk with experienced fishing experts for your next charter get in touch with Ezifish Charters today.
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