The fish that are mainly targeted around Niue are Wahoo, Tuna and Mahimahi ultimately because of their excellent eating quality. The Wahoo, or Paala as its known locally, are the speedsters of the sea and have been timed at 78km per hour when striking the bait. Their jaws are very tough with teeth forward mounted and razor sharp. They mesh in such a way that they are almost identical to pinking shears so wire traces are essential.
From an “anglers” point of view, hookups must be instantaneous as the wahoo have the ability to both cut down and then reject a bait or lure in a split second so hooks must be very sharp to cut into the hard tissue of the mouth. Pusher lures trolled fast or flying fish baits are very effective during the new moon and lead-up to the full moon periods.
Tuna are often caught just on daybreak but can be enticed to strike at anytime of day when they are on the bite. Mahimahi are delicious eating fish but can be difficult to land and control in the boat. They usually hunt in pairs of male and female or in small schools around floating objects such as FAD’s.
Geoff Thomas’ Personal experience on Fishing Niue
“Best wahoo fishing I found anywhere in the Pacific! You are fishing within 50 metres as there is no reef, and I love the undeveloped, natural charm of the place and the people. As well as wahoo there are yellowfin, mahimahi and the odd marlin. The diving is hugely popular, and when not fishing you can swim in the hidden grottos and caves. And check out the burgers at the Washaway Bar!”
Geoff Thomas
