The Southport Boat Angling Club, in association with the Angling Trust and the National Boat Angling Club, is a renowned fishing club located in Southport, New Zealand. Established in 1979, the club has gained significant momentum over the years, attracting a diverse membership of fishing enthusiasts.
To ensure the smooth running of the club, an Executive Committee was formed to oversee its operations. Club rules were also established, and a compound specifically allocated by Sefton Council for tractor storage. The lifespan of the tractors used by the club depends on the level of corrosion they encounter from the sea, as they are stored in an open compound at Ainsdale.
Safety is a top priority for the club, and regulations such as the availability of a reserve tractor in case of emergencies were put in place to ensure a safe launch and recovery of the boats and crew. Beach Safety Rules were also introduced to ensure the safety of members on the foreshore and at sea.
As a way to encourage participation from youngsters and individuals with disabilities, the club is actively working on creating opportunities for them to engage in boat angling. Juveniles over 12 years old are welcomed, but parental permission is required for them to attend a day of familiarisation before going out to sea. The club aims to provide early exposure, teach safety measures, introduce management and methodology of launching and fishing, and allow them to meet experienced members who oversee their fishing experience.
The Southport Boat Angling Club also prioritises communication and member support. They have a dedicated stewarding rota in place, with members taking turns being beach stewards during the months of April to September. This ensures that there is always someone available to assist and guide members. In addition, a Beach Cabin has been set up with permission from the council, where boats can be booked in and out.
A VHF radio has also been incorporated into the Beach Cabin to maintain contact with the launched boats.
The club prides itself on its close association with the Angling Trust and the National Boat Angling Club, ensuring that members have access to valuable resources and a wider fishing community. For inquiries and further information, interested individuals can contact the club via email, phone, or visit their location at Ainsdale Beach in Southport.