Golden Snapper (Centroberyx affinis)

Best Spots to Target Them

Golden snapper are commonly found around New Zealand's coastal waters, particularly in areas with rocky structures and deep weed lines. They inhabit waters from depths of about 25 meters and deeper.

• Deep Rocky Reefs and Pinnacles: These areas concentrate currents and baitfish, attracting golden snapper.
• Weed Lines and Drop-offs: Known for their abundance of golden snapper.
• Areas with Strong Currents: Golden snapper often reside in these areas, making them prime spots for spearfishing.

When to Look for Them

Golden snapper can be found year-round, but they are more active and easier to spot during the warmer months, from October to April. During these times, they often come closer to shore, making them more accessible to spearfishers.

Finding Them in the Current 

Golden snapper are often found near the seabed, hiding among rocks and seaweed. When diving, swim close to the bottom and look for them around rocky outcrops and weedy areas.

Size and Legal Limits

Golden snapper are slow-growing reef dwellers, reaching maturity around 30–35cm, with big ones pushing past 60cm. Their golden-red scales and large eyes make them a standout in deeper waters.

You’ll find them hugging the seabed around rocky reefs, drop-offs, and weed lines—usually from 25m and deeper. They’re cautious but curious, often hiding among rocks and seaweed, making stealth your best tool for a clean shot.

They fall under the combined daily bag limit for finfish—usually 20 per person in most regions—and there’s no specific size limit for this species.

Rules can vary by area, so always check the latest MPI regulations before heading out. Keeping to the limits helps protect local stocks for future dives.

For more detailed regulations, visit the  Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) website .

• Stay Low in the Water: Avoid startling them by staying close to the seabed and moving slowly.
• Approach from the Side: Golden snapper are less likely to be spooked if you approach from the side rather than directly above.
• Use the Environment: Utilize rocks and seaweed to conceal your approach.

A longer speargun, like a 100cm or 110cm model, is ideal for hunting golden snapper. These guns provide the range and power needed for the deeper waters where golden snapper are found.

Scientific Name: Centroberyx affinis

Average Length: Up to 60cm, but can grow larger

Habitat: Deep rocky reefs, weed lines, and drop-offs

Diet: Small fish and invertebrates

Fun Fact: Golden snapper have a unique ability to produce sounds by grinding their teeth and vibrating their swim bladders. This behaviour is often used to communicate with other fish and can be heard by divers underwater.

**Be sure to check out the MPI site to see the legal take size for your area.

Golden snapper is prized for its delicate, white flesh. Here's a delicious recipe to try:

Golden Snapper with Herb Crust Ingredients:

• Fresh golden snapper fillets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the golden snapper fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
6. Serve with a wedge of lemon and enjoy!

Hunting golden snapper is a rewarding experience. Remember to respect the ocean and your prey, and always dive within your limits. Check the latest rules and catch limits for golden snapper in your area on the MPI website: MPI Fishing Rules.