Bay of Islands Fishing Report: May 2026 Highlights & Tips

May 2026 has brought a promising fishing season in the Bay of Islands! After a persistent spell of southeast winds, anglers seized the opportunity to hit the waters, evident by the bustling boat ramp. Our goal was to target deep-sea snapper, but we stumbled upon a massive bait ball at the 50-meter mark, surrounded by a flock of birds. This led to an exciting slow drift, where we caught sizeable blue mackerel on our jigs. Although most snapper were just shy of size, the thrill of the chase kept our spirits high.

One of the most exhilarating aspects of fishing here is the unpredictability—hooking a Kingfish on a slow jig is truly a challenge. Reports from local fishermen indicate that fishing has been fantastic throughout the Waikare Inlet, with shallow depths producing impressive snapper catches off the rocks. Conditions are perfect for autumn fishing!

Mark your calendars for the International Yellowtail Tournament happening from June 7 to 12. While I won't be fishing this year, I'll be on-site at the Weigh station, eager to witness the excitement.

Don’t forget to visit our shop for the latest fishing gear and supplies! We offer bait, ice, berley, and insider intel to enhance your fishing experience. Our hours have adjusted from May 1 to September 1—we're open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday until 3 PM. Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. If you need supplies outside these hours, just give me a call!

With the water temperatures rising and fish activity picking up, it's a great time to get out on the water. Be sure to bring your best gear!

Happy fishing!