339 entrants but only 6 fish caught

Only six fish were caught in the Ninety Mile Beach Surfcasting Club’s mini contest which 339 people entered on Sunday. The total prize money was $400.

“Conditions were wicked,” said the club president, Mr. D. M. Walters, later.

“Both the sweep and undercurrent were terrific. Many people only came down to the ramp, took one look and went away.”

Winner of the $200 first prize was Mr. Hec Busby, of Ahipara, with a 13lb. 6oz snapper. The second prize of $100 went to Northland rugby wing Mr. Dennis Panther, of Awanui. His catch weighed 10lb. 3oz.

The third prize of $50 went to Mr. F. Hindmarsh with a catch of 9lb. 10oz. The fourth prize of $30 went to Mr. D. Manuel with a catch of 8lb. 9oz.

“The conditions were dead against good fishing,” said Mr. Walters.

“It’s a pity because some will go away with only that impression of the Ninety Mile Beach.” Many of the entrants were tourists.

However, Mr. Walters has received many letters from people who entered the club’s $2500 contest on December 28. More than 2500 fishermen took part.

All praised the contest and said they would be back next year — on January 3, 1970 — to fish for the $7,000 prize money that the club is offering.

— January 14, 1969