b'Feature Snapper are generally shy and prefer to keep away from areas with increased boat traffic and noise.So, it makes sense than January and February can generally be the worst times to catch snapper, as this is peak time for people out on the ocean.Winter therefore has its benefits for anglers who are still keen to get out and fish.I like to head off the shore and out of the Tauranga harbour in my hometown, as generally this is still the most popular place to fish as it is close to the boat ramp to save on fuel and offers the most sheltered water for anglers.My drift started at 15m and then as the boat moved in closer to the shoreline about 100m away, the depth Using the Minn Kota toranges from only 2-5m with sneak around and hold quietly in the shallows is keya lot of boulders covered in advantage when softbaiting. kelp for fish to hide.W intertime is a great time to hit the shallows prospecting with softbaits, there is a lot less boat traffic on the water and you can fish shallow.Im talking about under 5m and often as little as just 1-2m and the quieter the spot well away from any other boaties or people, the better.Fish over winter will take up residence in places where there is food, shelter and lack of human intervention.Snapper take advantage of most people hibernating away off the water in winter, as opposed to the busy summer months when Kiwis are allThe Lanza heavy spin rod impressed the writer with its out in mass enjoying their favouritepower to pull the king from water sports. foul in less than 5m of water.14FISHING IN GODZONE MAGAZINE'