I was lucky enough to be invited to help with " safety boat " duties on AWOL.
I arrived at Rockley just before 9:30. My Dad was already there getting AWOL ready.
As I loaded my gear I heard " tea or coffee ".
Now let's think about this - - - - - - Gorgeous morning with hardly any breeze, One of the best club boats and a great skipper offering me a cuppa when I arrive. - - - - - Magic !
We set off through the harbour at a gentle pace. We could just about hear Charlie on the radio. Martin asked about the mackerel and we were reassured that they have finally come in !
As we reached the chain ferry, we spoke to Neal who also confirmed that the mackies were in. He had taken up position on the western side of Swanage bay. We nipped out for a few mackerel before taking up our position on the Eastern side of the bay.
Martin was into the bream straight away. We had a steady stream of bream ( mostly to Martin ) until the tide died away then so did the fish.
We didn't get called upon for any safety duties but Neal was asked a few times to help with stuck anchors.
I heard a young voice shout " Dolphins " Kev's grandson ( Yelo ) was letting us know about our visitors. I have never seen the dolphins around here so I was delighted ! It's a shame they were so far away.
When the bream were having their siesta and we had been " stood down " from safety duties we moved further out to try for a few Rays. No joy there !
Martin asked if I was up for a quick go on Poole patch - - - - - so off we went. We had quite a few bites but only one fish to Martin.
We decided to go home and leave some fish for Chris ( kingfisher )
We took about 35 seconds to reach the chain ferry ( or it seemed like it ) what a great boat ! ! !
Oh yes, Lots of cuppas and sausage and bacon butties.
Glad the Kayak meet went so well and happy to be available to help.
Two sports boats came ploughing through at speed and some of the language used on the radio was a little less than " full of praise "
Thanks for a cracking Day out Martin.
Jim