The Otago Harbour Fishing Competition began at 1am this morning and runs until 3pm tomorrow with $10,000 in prizes.
Run by the Otago branch of the Salmon Anglers Association, the competition enabled anglers from around the region to enjoy the fruits of its programme of returning salmon smolt to Otago Harbour, association chairman Wayne Olsen said.
Despite the "horrible" forecast, ticket sales had been good and it was hoped anglers would be able to better last year's top catch of 9.1kg, he said.
It was the second year in a row the competition had experienced bad weather, but last year it was held in March.
That experience had not deterred Dunedin fisherman Neville Dasler, who this year decided to bring down two pup tents for shelter on the Customhouse Quay to supplement last year's tarpaulin.
"We'll tough it out. The wind is the worst thing. But at the end of it, it's a competition and there's always those mad enough to stay here."
It was not unusual for anglers to bring some shelter with them including tents and campervans, Mr Olsen said. There were about four camps set up around the wharf yesterday afternoon.
"A group from Mataura sets up camp each year down by the Monarch office."
Portable toilets and rubbish bins had been placed around the wharf for anglers to use and he urged people to respect the area.
Given the bad weather, he was urging anglers to take particular care especially if taking a boat out.
"Take lifejackets and wear them. And if it is rough, don't do it."
