The fullness of an epic summer is upon us, with hot humid days and hot humid nights.

The water temperature is sitting well into the 20s, and the warm water arrived in a hurry this year, possibly influencing the tropical weather conditions we are experiencing in our region.

There’s lots of swell - great for those of us that surf and fish, but not so good for bar crossings.

As it stands, two boats have flipped on the Kaituna Cut trying to cross the bar in less than ideal conditions.

Both crossings were on days when the swell was around 1 to 2m.

If you have the experience as a skipper to deal with that kind of sea state (and it’s understood one of them was hugely experienced), go for it.

If you don’t, don’t.

Fish are not worth being declared dead for! There are so many places to check the weather and sea conditions, and learning about swell and swell periods is very important when attempting to cross any river bar situation.

Contact the Coast Guard or attend one of their bar crossing training courses they do.

Putting yourself, your family, your mates and those that will come and help you at risk is just dumb boating.

The Bay and our harbour is over flowing with fish.

The game fishing is in full swing, with some fantastic catches being recorded by the local clubs.

An early run of yellow fin tuna saw the weigh stations busy for a few weeks at the beginning of the year as anglers chased down these epic fish.

Marlin are also showing in better numbers.

Some of the weather recently has limited opportunities, but anglers that have chased them down have been rewarded with some memorable captures.

Good showing of short bill spearfish and mahimahi make for an excellent catch.

The king fish have been very active in the harbour and in close along the beaches as well as the outer reefs that dot our area.

Snapper fishing in Tauranga Harbour is very good, with some solid fish showing up and good bins to keep the fridge full.

Long may it continue! Tight lines.