It has been quite an eye opener to read the threads that have recently appeared on site regarding the interests of the NZACA. Chad, in his threads, has asked for feedback and opinion. I have no time for destructive criticism but constructive ideas are an entirely different matter.

On top of the list must be the question: does the governing body have the support of those if represents? I believe reality suggests it does not.

I would question where surfcasting and fishing from boats has any common ground other than the end result of catching fish. Gear, rigs and the area fished are all totally different so it is difficult to find a comparison. Distance casting. Again there can be a question raised as to where the two; surfcasting/distance have an meaningful relationship with each other. Very frequently a larger fish is caught just behind the breakers, so whilst the ability to cast 200 metres plus is great for one's vanity, this ability has little bearing on fish landed? Surely that is what fishing is all about. To further this point, casting a single lead without any representation of even a simple rig plus a non aero dynamic attachment to imitate a bait again offers no real guide as to the caster's angling prowess.

This has been a complicated lead up to my question: is it possible the NZACA simply has too much on its plate? There can be little doubt from the many comments on this site there are many matters in need of address as they are drawing flack. Would it not make sense to split the work load into an association that represents surfcasting. Another association for those who wish to sail the briny, and then a third body to look after the interest of those attracted to distance casting?

My belief is based on one premise: better to have an association whose work is solely for those who actually go to the shoreline and use our far superior skills (when compared to boaties) to catch our fish. Our needs are different, access for one plus the need to promote surfcasting for what it is, one of New Zealand's leading participant sports.

Reading through the remits Chad has prepared he has not made it clear whether these changes are propositions or simply discussion documents. Speaking only for myself I have a concern: does the NZACA take on too much? If this is food for thought I would take it one step further: would a body solely representing surfcasters do a better job having only one sports code to look after?

If a surfcasting association were to be invoked and promoted as having only those who fish from the shore as it's only interest. Now is there a possibility it may encourage some of the 90% of anglers who don't belong to the NZACA could just be encouraged to join? It must be admitted that at present there is little to attract them and from a post made by Phill, it would seem at present the NZACA financial standing is to say the least on shaky ground.

There is not one hint of criticism in this post, it contains but one idea that is, or could be, of a very constructive nature. As a surfcaster I have no interest in what they are catching from boats because those fish are seldom taken from the shore. I also hold little interest in distance casting unless there is a 4/0 hook with an attendant suicidal anchovy impaled for safe keeping.

Food for thought?