In the heart of picturesque Fiordland, the excitement is palpable as anglers gear up for the 2023 Stabicraft Te Anau Manapouri Fishing Classic this Labour Weekend (20-22 Oct).

LISTEN TO DON MCFARLANE TALK ABOUT THE COMPETITION

Now into its 16th year, the premier fishing event promises a weekend of thrilling experiences and up to $150,000 in prizes, including a fully equipped 1850 Fisher Stabicraft boat worth over $100,000.

The competition has a unique history, stemming from its origins in Bluff, before moving to its current home in Fiordland.

Event spokesman Don McFarlane said concerns about safety and the challenges of Foveaux Strait lead to the competitions eventual move to Fiordland in 2008.

One of the significant changes over the years has been the integration of technology culminating last year, with the introduction of the Track My Fish app.

The app allows anglers the ability to catch and release their fish, while still being part of the competition.

This aligns with the event’s focus on sustainable fishing, McFarlane said.

However the event is not just for seasoned anglers, and actively encourages the participation of younger generations who have their own "Take a Kid Fishing" competition at McGregor's Pond.

This year the pond has been specially stocked, under the supervision of Fish and Game, with up to 200 rainbow trout, McFarlane said.

A Fish & Game ranger releases up to 200 rainbow trout into McGregors Pond, ahead of the 2023 Cruise Milford Take a Kid Fishing competition. Photo: Supplied

Children can experience the joy of catching a fish, fostering a love for the sport from an early age, he said.

McFarlane said entries were now over 1000, with that number expected to double by the weekend.

He also encouraged children under 12 who wished to enter the Take a Kid Fishing competition to not delay, as numbers were strictly limited to just 200.

McFarlane expressed his gratitude to the competition's long-standing major sponsor, Stabicraft, as well as the overwhelming support from the local community.

For those interested in participating, registration can be made online or at the Te Anau Rugby Club until 2pm on Saturday (21 Oct).

CLICK HERE for more information.