From his early days exploring Motuora Island and the Wenderholm Inlet in a little Sea Nymph with a smoky 2-stroke, Wayne Downer has built a lifetime of fishing memories.
In this episode of Get the Net, Wayne shares how those beginnings led to epic trips like the 3 Kings — where he landed a 43kg kingfish — and why his real passion lies in softbaiting the shallows for big, angry snapper.
We talk about the evolution of lure fishing in New Zealand, Wayne’s philosophy on fishing smarter (not harder), and how he’s turned his passion into a platform for others.
As the founder of the Lure Masters competition, Wayne has created one of the country’s most exciting tournaments — one that gives away a boat each year and celebrates innovation in the sport.
This yarn is packed with stories, lessons, and insights from a man who has seen it all — from humble beginnings to monster catches — and who continues to shape New Zealand’s lure fishing community.
✅ Wayne Downer @of2fish (FB, IG, TikTok, YouTube)
✅ @nzluremasters ⏱️
Chapters /Segments
✅ 00:00 – Wayne Downer - Early Days & Influences
✅ 08:00 – New Zealand Snapper Record
✅ 17:30 – Fishing in the shallows ‘Softbaiting Expertise’
✅ 45: 00 – Sustainable fishing & the anglers choice
✅ 107:00 – The Lure Masters Journey + How to win!
✅ 1:25:00 – Quickfire questions
🌟 Links & Socials-
YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@getthenet_nz]- Apple Podcasts: [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/🎣-get-the-net-–-tight-lines-loose-lips🎙️/id1824558692]
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🎵 Music Used
✅ Proctor, Topher Mohr & Alex Elena
✅ Satellites, Swello
✅ Momentum, Zplit
✅ Source (YouTube Audio Library)🎥 Production Notes
✅ Shot on: Sony A7iii + Sennheiser Mics
✅ Edited in: Adobe Premiere Pro
✅ Shot, Edited & Produced by Nick Hoyle
