Not a lot of action on the forum, so I thought I would post a short report. Went out this morning for a couple of hours off the rocks. Got there and the water was looking fantastic. Clear with a bit of movement from the slight swell. A wash was running out between the underwater reefs, so I baited up and cast out, only a rod length from shore. Got hit immediately and was onto a good fish. Washed him in with the swell and into the keeper net he went. Got another two in quick succession and knew it was going to be a great session if the wind stayed away. They were hitting the bait like steam trains - no timid bites today. Really fat, strong fish, getting ready for spawning. They kept coming hard and fast, but unbelieveably, I lost 8 fish at my feet, despite having washed them up ready to pick up. The fish were biting my hooks off, having taken them down into their throat. Eight hooks - unheard of!!! Dropped another two during the fight, making for 10 fish lost. The wind did change to a NE and the water chopped up and changed dramatically. Bite slowed right down, but I had seven fish in the bag and that was more than enough for several meals. A great session which lasted just under 2 hours. The fish are a tad early this year, but I am not complaining. Four others fishing nearby, didn't raise a scale and left in disgust.
I really love fishing for niggers off the rocks and when they are bled, filleted and skinned, rate amongst the best fare in my opinion. Tasted one from a fish shop once and it was vomit material in comparison. Preparation and correct handling etc are essential with any fish caught. Don't know how often I have seen boats come in with fish that have been sitting in plastic tubs in the sun and still have guts and gills. When I take my boat out, it is an esky with ice slurry for the fish I am keeping.
Blackies are kept alive in a keeper net, placed in a pool which is refreshed with water every time a wave rolls in. Good fun......
