Gday George
I am heading to Mana myself in about a week and am also keen for fishing. I was there last year and did the main charter- not great, all trolling with old heavy gear, and pricey. This year however have hooked up with the guy running the charters from the backpackers. He didn't have any popping gear but was very interested in getting started, in fact I am supposed to be bringing gear over for him, so there will be popper fishing on Mana this year for sure!
I'll probably even join your mate. Is he planning on bringing gear with him?