Snapper catches winning fishing moment

A photographer who captured the moment his wife landed a stunning fish has netted the top prize in Fish & Game’s ReWild Snap & Share licence photo competition. 

Radek Baus of Christchurch took the winning image of his wife Lucie Baus with her brown trout at a river on the West Coast. 

The result was decided by a public vote of four monthly winners, all of which showcased what getting out on the water is all about: family, fun and fish.  

Baus takes home a $1,000 Kilwell voucher, and his photo will appear on the 2026/27 Fish & Game fishing licence. 

Lucie Baus recalls the moment the shot was taken: “The day was calm, and the fish was cruising along the edge of a deep pool. I crawled close to the shore, set the trap, and the fly did the job perfectly. The fish weighed perhaps 4-4.5 kg.” 

Fish & Game New Zealand Chief Operating Officer Richie Cosgrove said the result was a great outcome for the organisation. 

“The winning image captures a magic moment and the joy of landing a good fish, and the public clearly agrees. For us, it also provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase women out there on the water, reflecting the growing popularity of angling for women. 

“All four finalists were incredibly strong images, which made the public vote all the more meaningful. Thank you to everyone who entered and voted.” 

Kilwell Director Amanda Wells said her team was excited to be part of the competition. 

It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the outdoors and the incredible talent of photographers who capture those special moments on the water,” Wells said.  

“Supporting initiatives like this is something we’re passionate about, and we love seeing the winning image featured on the licence.”