Buller Bluewater Classic

Westport is gearing up for something big, and not just the fish. After a summer that saw marlin, swordfish, and monster tuna turning up in unprecedented numbers, the community is launching the Buller Bluewater Classic, a month‑long big game fishing competition running throughout February.

Last season changed the conversation on the Coast. Warm currents pushed rare species close to shore, and suddenly blue and striped marlin, yellowfin and bluefin tuna, and even mahi mahi were being hooked just a short run from the harbour. Crews swapped stories of multiple hookups, packed days on the water, and one marlin that came close to breaking records at 154kg.

Local fisherman Garry Anderson says the shift was impossible to ignore. What had once been the odd sighting became a steady stream of serious catches, helped along by visiting YouTuber Jason Anderson (Reel Adventures with Jase), who landed a game fish on his first day filming in Westport. Word spread fast, and soon boats were arriving from across the South Island to try their luck.

With the buzz building, a group of local fishers and businesses created the Buller Bluewater Classic — a competition designed to celebrate the fishery while keeping things sustainable. Instead of a high‑pressure weekend, anglers have the entire month to pick their weather windows, enter once or multiple times, and fish at a pace that protects the resource.

The format is simple:
• Tag‑and‑release encouraged
• Catches logged through a volunteer‑run system
• A live digital leaderboard keeping the excitement rolling

Every Saturday, crews will gather at Shortjaw Brewing to log catches, check the leaderboard, and share stories over a beer. The month wraps up with a combined prizegiving and night market, bringing together food, music, and the wider community.

The Buller Bluewater Classic marks a new chapter for Westport, one that celebrates a world‑class fishery right on our doorstep and invites locals and visitors alike to be part of it.