Recently got away from the grind here and went down to the New Zealand to visit with friends and to cheer on the Eagles - the USA Rugby team who were playing in the Rugby World Cup. We had a great time at the matches but unfortunately USA is just not in the same league as the more advanced teams. We did beat Russia and I screamed so loud I lost my voice for a few days - my wife and daughter were very happy!
We drove all over the North Island and although it was supposed to be Springtime it sure was cold and raining every day for the first 12 days we were there. It didn't stop us from jumping in the surf and collecting Tuatua's (Pee clams) the first day. I was doing okay collecting at first but my productivity went down - then I realized my feet were numb!!!
This is not the prime fishing season which is actually begins in late October and runs through March. Their summer - some world class bill fish and a great fighting and eating fish - they call a King Fish. Reminds me of a Amber Jack but I am not sure if they are in the same family.
One my buddies now lives in Wellington and he had arranged a fishing trip and the God's smiled on us and produced a gorgeous weather day - clear blue skies and winds less than gale force - which unusual for NZ - this is a country that wrestled the American's Cup away from USA cause they are all sailors. Anyway I digressed a bit there.
We had a fantastic day on the water and hauled up lots of blue cod up to about ten pounds - my hands were so stinky from constantly baiting hooks and removing fish I only took a few pics while fishing.
At the end of the day - the captain donned his scuba gear jumped over and came back with 3 very nice crays and a bunch of spiny sea urchins. We had sea urchin sashimi - which I have to admit was a bit underwhelming and very salty.
So, if you ever have an opportunity - jump at the chance to visit this wonderful place it is a outdoorsmen's delight - and a picture postcard around every corner. Get this the population is only 4 million people - yes the jokes are true -there are more sheep then people.
