Catching Hapuka can be an all-year-round activity. There are various reports as to when the best time is. However, general consensus suggests the best time to catch Hapuka are from winter leading up to spring.

Where can I fish Hapuka?

When it comes to targeting hapuka, areas such as White Island, Ranfurly Banks, Mayor Island and Cook Strait tend to enter everyone's minds. It's from these areas that some very big fish have been caught. All these areas I have mentioned have had numerous 100 pounds plus fish taken from them.

How do you catch Hapuka?

Various hapuku species are most often caught on set-lines ('groper/hapuku droppers') or by rod and line fishing using large fish flesh or squid baits. Livebaits, jigs and large soft plastics also work well, but the tackle and techniques are rather specialised.