Okay, a genuine inquiry. Living in Hastings and enjoying great success on Marine Parade, where would local surfcasters recommend to be the 'hot spot' for red cod.

I appreciate most anglers try to avoid them, well would they kindly share the secret of where they avoid, and I will do my best to lower the local population.

I know I can catch them on a long-line, on Marine Parade, but as yet they have avoided all my best endeavours with the surfcaster. Also may I ask what would be considered as the 'never fail' bait for the little rascals? Whenever I am surfcasting my standard bait is anchovy, well perhaps it's here I am going wrong. Also, would fishing a smaller hook than a 4/0 also help?