Auckland Deaf Fishing Club: Crap Fishing of the Year

2000 – J.Anton; 2001 – W.Waitohi; 2002 – D.Croskery; 2003 – L.Jones; 2004 – R.Hay; 2005 – A.D’Este; 2006 – S.Hamilton; 2007 – J.Schischka; 2008 – B.Ryder; 2009 – P.Lessing; 2010 – M.Wi; 2011 – C.Blum; 2012 – N.Pillay; 2013 – P.Arthur; 2014 – M.Granger; 2015 – T.Banks; 2016 – G.M.Granger; 2019 – P.Smith.

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NZSL story – Taonga source: Jonathan Anton

The ‘Crap Fishing’ Winner Who Let the Marlin Go!

Jonathan, proud winner of the ADS ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ award in 2000 (and also the winner of the 'Best Man Angler of the Year' award in 2005!), looks back on his time with the club as full of laughs, good company, and weekend adventures. There were all sorts of fish, plenty of challenges and one unforgettable marlin! It happened on a charter boat where everyone took 30-minute turns on the rod. Jonathan just happened to be up when the marlin struck. Over an hour later, after a wild battle, he finally reeled it in. But seeing the marlin up close, he made the call to tag and release. No need for a trophy on the wall!

NZSL story – Taonga source: Richard Hay

Stranded & Awarded: Richard Hay’s Hilarious ‘Crap Fishing’ Trophy Tale!

Richard took home the infamous ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ toilet trophy in 2004, but not for the reason you’d expect! After a day out with the Women’s Power Fishing crew, Richard’s boat ran aground on a shallow sandbar in the Kaipara Harbour on the way back from Shelly Beach. Despite his best (and very public) efforts to free it, the embarrassing moment earned him the title.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Cecilia Waitohi

Hooked on the Spot!

Cecilia never planned to become a fisher. She just tagged along with her husband, William Waitohi, when the ADS Fishing Club was revived. Armed with a big book and no expectations, she settled in for a relaxing day – until William handed her a rod. One cast later, she was hooked! The book forgotten; the fish biting. The real surprise came when the Coastguard pulled up to their tiny boat and politely informed them they were fishing in a marine reserve. “What’s a marine reserve?” Cecilia asked, mortified.

NZSL story – Taonga source: John Schischka

Fishing Fails: The Infamous ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ Toilet Seat Trophy

Ever wondered about the meaning behind Auckland Deaf Fishing’s infamous ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ toilet seat trophy? John Schischka reveals the story behind the quirky frog addition and hilariously recounts why Susan Hamilton, Doug Croskery, and Jonathan Anton earned the not-so-coveted award. From epic fishing fails to unforgettable moments, watch to find out what went wrong!

NZSL story – Taonga source: Richard Hay

The Ultimate Boat for Deaf Fishers: Richard’s Journey from 5.5m to 43ft!

Richard shares the story of his first 5.5m boat, a favourite among the Auckland Deaf Fishing Club, with trips all over Auckland. But the real upgrade came later – a massive 43-foot ex-Navy longboat, perfect for overnight trips with space to sleep six comfortably. With its panoramic windows offering clear views in every direction, it was an ideal boat for Deaf fishers!