Where It All Began
The NZ Lure Masters Fishing Contest began as a response to a growing demand for a fishing competition that embraced sustainable practices. Traditional fishing contests often focus on landing the biggest catch, but with concerns over environmental impact increasing, a group of passionate anglers came together to create a new kind of event. They wanted something that would not only showcase the skills of New Zealand’s top fishermen but also encourage sustainable fishing techniques.
Since its founding, the NZ Lure Masters has grown exponentially, quickly earning a reputation as a prestigious event in the fishing community. By adopting a Catch, Measure, and Release format, the competition ensures that the fish caught are returned to the water unharmed, preserving the environment while still allowing anglers to test their skills.
What Makes Catch, Measure, and Release Special?
Unlike traditional competitions, where anglers keep their catch to be weighed and measured, the Catch, Measure, and Release format adopted by the NZ Lure Masters is all about conservation. Participants catch their fish, measure it, and then release it back into the water. This not only supports the health of the fish population but also encourages sustainable fishing practices.
This format has become a key factor in the competition’s popularity. It allows participants to enjoy the thrill of the catch while also contributing to the environment. It also levels the playing field, as it requires a different set of skills—such as lure selection, proper handling, and fast measurement techniques—making it a unique challenge for even the most seasoned anglers.
Sponsorship and Prizes
One of the main attractions of the NZ Lure Masters is its impressive prize pool, which totals over $90,000. This year, with Honda Marine New Zealand as the primary sponsor, the stakes are higher than ever. From boats to top-of-the-line fishing gear, the prizes reflect the high caliber of the competition. The winner of the grand prize will take home a brand-new Frewza F15 Fisher boat, a significant draw for participants and fishing enthusiasts alike.
Aside from the grand prize, there are numerous categories and awards to be won, ensuring that even novice anglers have a chance to walk away with something. The range of prizes ensures that the event remains inclusive, encouraging participation from a wide variety of anglers, regardless of skill level.
What to Expect in the 2024 Competition
This year’s competition will be held over two days and is open to anglers across New Zealand. Participants can fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments, which opens up possibilities for targeting different species. The competition rules remain simple but challenging: catch the biggest fish using lures, measure it, and release it back into the water.
The NZ Lure Masters utilises an advanced app system, Fishing Chaos, to log the catches. NZ Lure Masters Fishing Contest: A Premier Catch, Measure & Release CompetitionEach participant must photograph their catch alongside an official measuring board, upload it to the app, and receive real-time updates on the leaderboards. This technological integration has made the competition more efficient and transparent, while also adding an extra layer of excitement as participants can track their progress against others throughout the event.
Participants should expect to see a wide range of species being targeted, including snapper, kingfish, trout, and kahawai. The flexibility of the competition—allowing anglers to fish from either land or boat—ensures a diverse set of entries and keeps the excitement high.
Notable Moments from Past Events
Over the years, the NZ Lure Masters has witnessed some memorable moments. In previous competitions, we’ve seen close finishes where anglers caught fish mere centimeters apart in size, as well as incredible personal stories of triumph. One particularly notable event happened in 2022, when angler, David Cleaver, caught a record-breaking kingfish in the final hours of the competition, securing his victory by just a sliver.
The competition has also consistently attracted top anglers from across New Zealand, making it a highly competitive event. The combination of skill, strategy, and a little bit of luck ensures that no two years are ever the same.
Emerging Trends in Lure Fishing
As the competition has grown, so too has the technology behind lure fishing. The NZ Lure Masters has always been at the forefront of these innovations, with participants utilising cutting-edge lures and fishing techniques to gain an edge. Recent trends have seen an increased focus on biodegradable lures, which not only improve catch rates but also minimise environmental impact.
Anglers are also relying more on data-driven strategies, using apps and electronic devices to track weather patterns, tides, and fish behavior. These technologies provide an extra layer of preparation, giving competitors an advantage when selecting the perfect lure for the conditions they’ll face.
Looking Forward: The Future of the NZ Lure Masters
The NZ Lure Masters has firmly established itself as one of New Zealand’s premier fishing events, and its future looks even brighter. With increasing interest from sponsors and participants alike, the competition is poised for continued growth. Its focus on sustainability and conservation, combined with the excitement of competitive fishing, ensures that it will remain a staple in the fishing calendar for years to come.
Beyond the prizes and the competition itself, the NZ Lure Masters fosters a sense of community. Anglers from all over the country come together, united by their shared passion for fishing. Whether they’re seasoned professionals or first-time participants, everyone who takes part in the NZ Lure Masters leaves with a deeper connection to the sport and the environment.
NZ Lure Masters Is A Must-Experience Event
The NZ Lure Masters is more than just a fishing contest—it’s an experience. The combination of sustainability, high-stakes competition, and community spirit makes it a unique and thrilling event for anglers of all levels. With over $90,000 in prizes and the backing of Honda Marine New Zealand, this year’s contest promises to be one of the most exciting yet. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
