Epic broadbill lands pending women’s record
Seven hours on the rod, one epic result. Helen Horrocks has landed a 279.3kg broadbill swordfish off Northland, now sitting as a pending NZ women’s record.
A monster broadbill swordfish landed off the Northland coast has put determined angler Helen Horrocks firmly in the record books, with a pending New Zealand women’s record now under review following an unforgettable offshore battle.
Fishing during the Cater Marine Opua Small Boats Tournament, Horrocks hooked into the giant swordfish off the Hokianga coast, beginning what would become a gruelling fight lasting more than seven hours on the rod — followed by another hour of hard work to finally secure the fish in the boat.
“It was a pretty epic fight,” Horrocks said. “Seven hours on the rod and probably another hour to get it into the boat.”
Once the broadbill was finally aboard, the challenges were far from over. With the massive fish on deck, the boat was heavily weighted at the stern and unable to get up on the plane for the run home. The crew pushed on regardless, eventually reaching the Hokianga bar entrance around 1am – only to be met by a mid-tide outgoing current and complete darkness.
With safety the priority, the decision was made to drop anchor outside the harbour entrance and wait for daylight before attempting a crossing. At first light the following morning the crew safely crossed the bar and headed in for the official weigh-in, where the swordfish pulled the scales down to an impressive 279.3kg.
The catch now sits as a pending New Zealand women’s record and marks a milestone moment for Horrocks, who has spent years building her experience in offshore fishing and boating.
In an exciting new chapter, Horrocks has also recently launched She’s Got Game, a business dedicated to helping more women gain confidence on the water. The venture offers boating and fishing coaching exclusively for women, aimed at building skills, knowledge and independence in a supportive environment.
“It’s all about getting more women comfortable and capable out on the water,” she said.
For Horrocks, landing a potential national record broadbill is the perfect way to launch the new venture – and a reminder of just how rewarding offshore fishing can be when preparation, perseverance and passion come together.
More information on her coaching and upcoming courses can be found at shesgotgame.co.nz
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