Ski-Boat magazine May 2014

R31.00

Other countries: R27.19 excl.

The South African Deep Sea Angler

May/June 2014 Vol. 30 No.3

SRI LANKA SKI-BOAT

FIRST GRANDER FOR 2014

A bucket list destination

Kenya delivers ...

MAY/JUNE 2014

HOW THE WET WAS WON

VOL. 30

The evolution of sportfishing boats in South Africa

NO.3 I S S N

9

0 2 5 8

770258 729008

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7 2 9 7 14005

A RACE TO THE LINE 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic

www.africanangler.com

CONTENTS May/June 2014 Volume 30 Number 3 COVER: “FINEST ISLAND IN THE WORLD” — Marco Polo Dave Lewis with his best fish of a recent trip to Sri Lanka, 40 lb giant trevally — aka GT or giant kingfish — caught on a chartreuse 250g Williamson Abyss jig. See page 58. Photo supplied by the author.

FEATURES 12

A Race to the Line Rampage wins the 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic — by Erwin Bursik

20

How the Wet was Won The evolution of sportfishing boats in South Africa — Part 1 — by Johan Smal

31

First Grander for 2014 Kenya cements its position as a top fishing destination — by SKI-BOAT reporter

32

Redefining Performance Putting Honda’s new BF100 and BF80 through their paces — by Erwin Bursik

45

Maintaining Your Trailer The art of launching and trailering your ski-boat — Part 4 — by Anton Gets

53

12

Knot Savvy A few tips for staying tight — Part 1 — by Paul Borcherds

58

Sri Lanka Species aplenty at another “must visit” destination — by Dave Lewis

65

Gaff or Miss The turning point of the fight ... — by Sean Lange

71

A Whale of a Time 2014 Two Oceans Marlin Challenge — by Johan Smal

83

Cold Comfort Dish up your own delicious smoked fish — by Gary Thompson

88

iSimangaliso Moves Toward Full C&R Old rules to be enforced and new ones introduced — by iSimangaliso PR

93

58

Today’s Specials in the Galley Homemade tuna pie — by Bianca Theunissen

100

Where to Fish in Africa Wildfly puts you on the water ...

DEPARTMENTS 8 9 78 79 80 91

Editorial Comment — by Dave Rorke Postbox Reel Kids Subscribe and WIN! SADSAA News Mercury Junior Anglers

97 99 99 104 105 106

Marketplace Smalls Advertisers’ Index Business Classifieds Charters & Destinations Directory Rapala Lip — Last Word by Johan Smal

32

The official magazine of the South African Deep Sea Angling Association

Managing Editor: Dave Rorke Editor: Sheena Carnie Editorial Assistant: Vahini Pillay Publishing Executive: Erwin Bursik Advertising Executive: Mark Wilson Advertising Consultant: Joan Wilson Administration Executive: Anne Bursik Accountant: Jane Harvey Executive Assistant: Kim Hook Admin Assistant: Sunny Kandaswami Boat Tests: Heinrich Kleyn Contributors: Paul Borcherds, Erwin Bursik, Anton Gets, Sean Lange, Dave Lewis, Bianca Theunissen, Johan Smal, Gary Thompson.

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Reproduction: Hirt & Carter, Durban Printer: Robprint (Pty) Ltd, Durban Full production is done in-house by Angler Publications & Promotions on Apple Macintosh software and hardware for output directly to plate.

SKI-BOAT Magazine, ISSN 0258-7297, is published six times a year by Angler Publications & Promotions cc, Reg. No. CK 88/05863/23, and is distributed by RNA, as well as directly by the publishers to retail stores throughout South Africa.

• Copyright of all material is expressly reserved and nothing may be reproduced in part or whole without the permission of the publishers.

• While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this magazine, the publishers do not accept responsibility for omissions or errors or their consequences.

Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers, the managing editor, editor, editorial staff or the South African Deep Sea Angling Association.

8 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

EDITORIAL COMMENT

A

SHORT article jumped out at me the other day from a trade magazine called Angling International, under the banner “Industry Opinion”. It was headlined “It’s a waste of time trying to attract younger anglers”, and was written by industry veteran Dirk Sowietzki who happens to be Export Sales Manager at German-based Monofil-Technik, a monofilament fishing line manufacturer.

“Those of us hankering for the return to the good old days when father and son used to go fishing together and the sport was a family affair can forget it,” proclaims Mr Sowietzki. “It’s just not going to happen and talk of attracting youngsters early and keeping them interested is just pie-in-the-sky. The younger generation is a lost generation and the fishing industry needs to accept the fact.”

Dave Rorke By association, this also implies that angling structures which control the sport should also accept that the pool they are fishing in for future membership is equally empty. In other words, they too must accept that the younger generation is lost to them.

“Having two children of my own,” continues Mr Sowietzki, “I know that they are just not interested. Once they get to a certain age, fishing for them is boring and holds no attraction at all.”

Then comes his fire and brimstone: “The youth of today are lazy and don’t want to take part in a healthy pursuit. They would rather be in front of a television set or computer. This is the technical age, not one for sitting on a riverbank (or in a boat).”

Dirk Sowietzki surely must have left home with a flea in his ear that morning — or perhaps he woke up grumpy — as he continues in the same vein by saying that most people between the ages of 17 and 39 are lost to the sport because they have other interests to occupy their time, “ ... be it concentrating on their careers, rearing a family or just having fun. Instead of trying to maintain that interest, we should be concentrating on the 40-plus age group and encouraging them to take up the sport again.” Then he justifies his very broad generalisation ...

“This generation is at an age where their life is ready to take a new direction.

Their children are older and have gone their own way. They suddenly have more time on their hands and are ready to return to the sport.

“It would be far better encouraging those people, who have more disposable income and an interest in fishing, than the ‘can’t be bothered’ generation,” Mr Sowietzki concludes.

Whilst one might accept that in Europe they aren’t blessed with the same fishing opportunities we have in South Africa — especially regarding weather — should they choose to ignore the age group he mentions, between 17 and 39, his so-called “lost generation” will surely be lost to the sport of fishing forever. We believe that deep sea angling’s target audience is from five-years-old — for that’s when the seed is sown — to as close to 95 as one can get and still be able to hold a rod.

Imagine the vacuum in our sport if we excluded the age group suggested by Mr Sowietzki. How could our youth possibly be nurtured to become full participants in our sport, both on the water and later managing our sport at committee level in clubs, provincial associations and SADSAA? Indeed, this is what we need right now in our sport as many who have devoted their lives to the management of deep sea angling across the board — voluntarily too — approach a stage in their lives where retirement might be on the horizon. Fortunately, no such vacuum exists within rank and file of our sport, so when the time does come — as it inevitably will — I am sure members with the same high-quality administrative skills will fill the necessary executive positions throughout the three tiers of our sport’s management.

Above all else, however, in South Africa deep sea angling is a family pastime which involves all family members, since it forms such an all-inclusive and integral part of the social and recreational lives of participants. Children become involved because “dad does it”, and it becomes a love for a sport that lasts a lifetime.

Happy reading and good catches.

Dave Rorke

POSTBOX MPA GPS COORDINATES AND UPDATED REGULATIONS: DEPARTMENTAL ACTION REQUIRED Dear Dave It would be appreciated if you would publicise these MPAs with an appeal to the powers-that-be to introduce GPS coordinates and updated regulations for them, as was done with the Amathole MPAs. That would do a lot more good than banning recreational fishermen from fishing for red steenbras and seventyfour, for which recreational fishermen do so much to protect.

The current regulations for the Dwesa/Cwebe and Hluleka Marine Protected Areas only give landmarks.

These are difficult if not impossible to use when out to sea. André Farr has kindly converted these marks into GPS references as attached.

These coordinates are used at your own risk. Neither André Farr nor Border Deep Sea Angling Association accepts any responsibility or liability regarding the accuracy of these figures, so they should be used with discretion.

However, they serve as a much better guideline than the landmarks provided in the regulations.

Anglers fishing the area are asked to please distribute this amongst club members so that these MPAs are publicised as

Letters to the Editor

Threetooth puffer hooked off East London Arthur Kidson wrote: “One of our ELSBC boats ‘foul hooked’ this amazing fish on the bump in 90 metres on Saturday 29th March. It has got the Cape Town University ‘okes’ excited.” Well, not only the UCT scientists, it seems. ORI’s Bruce Mann writes: “Amazing little fella — I have never seen one of these before!”

The threetooth puffer, Triodon macropterus, is a tetraodontiform fish, the only living species in the genus Triodon and family Triodontidae. Other members of the family are known from fossils stretching back to the Eocene (lasting from 56- to 33.9-million years ago). It is native to the Indo-Pacific where it is found at depths of down to 300m. It reaches a maximum length of 54cm and has a distinctive shape, with a huge belly flap which it inflates with seawater when threatened.

DWESA CWEBE MPA: ±19 293ha. The Dwesa-Cwebe Marine Protected Area in the Eastern Cape Province is the area between the high-water mark and a line six (6) nautical miles seawards of the high-water mark, and between, as northern boundary, a straight line (135° true bearing) drawn from the western bank of the mouth of the Suku River in the District of Elliotdale, and, as southern boundary, a similar line drawn from Human’s Rock in the District of Willowvale.

It includes the tidal portion of the Mbashe River upstream as far as a line drawn from the point where the northwestern boundary of the Dwesa Forest Reserve reaches the high-water mark of the river to the point where the southwestern boundary of the Cwebe Forest Reserve reaches the high-water mark of the river. NO FISHING ALLOWED. SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 9

Hluleka MPA: ±4 860 ha. The Hluleka Marine Protected Area in the Eastern Cape province is the area between the high-water mark and a line six nautical miles seaward of the high-water mark, and between, as northern boundary, a straight line (135° true bearing) drawn from a beacon marked H1 situated in the Hluleka Nature Reserve where the game fence near the northern boundary of the nature reserve reaches the high-water mark. As southern boundary, a similar line is drawn from the point where the southern boundary of the nature reserve reaches the high-water mark. NO FISHING ALLOWED. widely as possible and are protected, as we do with our Amathole MPAs. JOHN RANCE Environmental Officer Border Deep Sea Angling Association <jcrance@rancetimber.co.za> No sooner said than done. If anyone at the responsible government department reads this, could we ask you to please either provide the correct coordinates or confirm that André Farr’s marks are accurate, given a margin for error, and are therefore acceptable. — DR SOUHERN CAPE YELLOWTAIL NOT THE BIGGEST EVER Dear Dave My letter in the previous issue on the alleged “biggest-ever” 26.4kg Southern Cape yellowtail caught off Struisbaai earlier this year refers.

I owe SKI-BOAT magazine and especially the readers an apology for sharing incorrect information with them.

Subsequent to the publication of the report, I learned that the charter’s representatives actually provided me with false information. When I initially enquired about the mass of the fish, both confirmed that the fish weighed 26.4kg, but deliberately withheld the fact that the yellowtail was not actually weighed.

The weight was simply approximated from a graph based on a length measurement, unfortunately also using an erroneous total length measurement instead of the specified fork-length 10 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

Jaco Young’s 22kg yellowtail, a good fish for a first-timer nonetheless. which should have been used to obtain a more representative weight.

The lucky angler was Jaco Young who personally had it weighed on an assized scale, and he reported its weight at the time as only 22kg. As a number of yellowtail this size are caught in the area annually, it was not the biggest-ever yellowtail as stated. Still, it was a great catch for a first-timer.

JOHAN SMAL <johansmal@telkomsa.net>

A DREAM COME TRUE Dear Dave I had a look on your website and saw myself with my jobfish on the front cover of the March/April SKI-BOAT magazine, and then saw the real thing.

WOW! My dad and I have been buying your magazine since sometime in the ’nineties, and it’s a dream come true for us.

I just wanted to say thank you very much. I hope they fly off the shelves.

The response from my friends and people on Facebook has also been overwhelming.

Once again, thanks so much.

GERT AND BUKS KRUGELL <gertkrugell@yahoo.com> It makes our job that much more rewarding just to know that using a reader’s photograph on the front cover means so much to him and his family.

It was a pleasure, Gert — but all credit to you and your dad for the photo. — DR.

SOMETHING ON YOUR MIND? Write to: The Editor SKI-BOAT PO Box 20545 Durban North 4016 Fax: (031) 572-7891 E-mail: angler@mags.co.za

COMPETITIONS

by Erwin Bursik

NEW era for SADSAA’s Billfish Classic began in 2014 with a major sponsor taking over the naming rights of this prestigious South African billfishing event. The participants in the SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic, proudly flying the Nissan South Africa banner, took to the ocean off Richards Bay during mid-February.

At 5am on 19th February,Tournament Director Dick Pratt gave the start command over the radio and the 60 sportfishing craft waiting in the channel entrance to the harbour reacted like racehorses out of the starting gates.

With water churning white and spray flying everywhere, the craft dug their propellors deep into saltwater to send this fleet flying out between the port’s two piers as the 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic got underway.

Watching the start from the vantage point on the north breakwater has become a tradition, and those of us fortunate enough to witness the commencement of this event were enthralled by the mix of big sportfishers and large ski-boats that went flying past. They left long streaks of white propwash across the ocean’s surface as the craft fanned out, some heading straight out to sea and others running north in the direction of the hot fishing area of “Dawson’s”.

Although it was a beautiful morning to start with, the weather predictions were for winds from the northeast and a pre-cyclonic swell that heralded a cyclone moving in the Moçambique Channel off lower Madagascar.

The 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic was the sixth running of this event by the South African Deep Sea Angling Association who acquired the rights from the forerunner, the BlackWatch Tournament, which was run for four years. SADSAA are proud that they have been able to continue to stage an event that makes it possible for all boat owners to enter their craft, be they 52ft sportfishers or 20ft ski-boats.

In line with internationally accepted criteria, the target species are billfish only, and these fish are all required to be released after photographic evidence of the catch has been recorded.

In addition, the rules provide that the smaller craft stand an equal chance of winning the substantial prizes on offer, by stipulating that a craft under 7m has to take the second prize if a craft in this class does not win the top prize.

Talking of prizes, in addition to the new primary sponsor, Nissan SA, 4x4 Mega World, a countrywide accessories supplier to motoring enthusiasts and those offshore anglers who tow big boats with powerful 4x4s, came onboard and sponsored a significant number of their electric winches and other products from their impressive display in the marquee.

A large number of other great prizes made up the most impressive giveaway in the history of this event.

SADSAA, as the national association of the sport of offshore angling, is deeply indebted to each and every sponsor of this event and strongly encourages all its members to acknowledge them. Please support our sponsors when you make a decision to buy a new vehicle, fit a bullbar or winch, acquire an axle for a trailer, select a lure or ask for a “cold one” at the bar.

Everyone who’s part of the offshore angling community, especially those taking part in any of the competitions, be they interprovincial, club or bonanza styled events, is fully aware of our sport’s nemesis — weather and fish availability.

Weather plays a huge role in the success or failure of these events and we have all had to accept that organisers can’t predict the weather 12

A

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 15

All the anglers who released billfish at the 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic. ing the four days of the scheduled billfishing of the 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic. We had some nice, flat sea conditions, a few periods of strong northeasterly winds, a blowout on day three caused by a galeforce southwesterly wind and big swells, and then calming seas on the last day. All of which tested the mettle of the anglers and skippers.

As to the fishing, the results indicate that the 2014 event had the fourth worst catch statistics in the ten years the competition has been run. The final tally was 19 billfish released and three fish disqualified for various technical reasons.

months in advance. Weather plays havoc with ocean currents and fish migration patterns which leads to the second aspect affecting competitions — fish availability or whether the available fish are “in the mood” to take lures or bait.

It’s fair to say that the vast majority of deep sea anglers entering any competition do so for the fun of taking part and the camaraderie enjoyed during the social interaction. Of course, succeeding in catching a good fish even if one is not in the prizes or, in the case of this tournament, releasing a billfish, is the cherry on top.

All these aspects were in play durSpecies released

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

Marlin

18

15

29

44

38

21

26

13

25

12

Sailfish

1

1

5

4

4

4

6

1

3

4

S/bill spearfish

0

0

0

5

9

6

8

0

7

0

Total

19

16

34

53

51

31

40

14

35

16

No. of craft

59

69

72

77

81

85

55

46

45

45

Species released 2014

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Total

Blue marlin

3

6

BLOW

3

12

Black marlin

1

2

OUT

1

4

Striped marlin

0

1

BLOW

1

2

Sailfish

1

0

OUT

0

1

Total

5

9

0

5

19

Almost every skipper had a different theory on why the fish weren’t being caught. Unfortunately, the competition records do not make note of the number of strikes and hookups, only the number of releases. Most skippers were talking about the high percentage of strikes and hookup losses. In other words, it was felt that the billfish were around in numbers, but the extremely hot surface layer of water (between 28and 30°C) resulted in billfish not attacking lures with their normal vigorous tenacity. Most participants agreed that it was not a case of billfish not being in the area.

Next year will be better, they say — proof again that hope springs eternal in the human breast — and the hearts of deep sea anglers. If fishing was predictable it would be boring During the first weigh-in Charlie Brown, skippered by Leroy White, was leading the fleet with two black marlin released.

On the second day Paul du Toit of Uli Buli moved into second position with two billfish — in his case blue marlin. Also on that day Rampage’s skipper, Dean Auby, put up a good showing with a striped marlin and a blue marlin.

After two days of fishing there were three big boats all with 200 points — that is 100 points for each marlin released. With the third day being a SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 17

blowout it meant that the final day’s fishing had a lot riding on it. If any of the three leading teams released another billfish the leaderboard could change.

As for the under 7m craft, a number of them had released one billfish, so again if any of those craft was to release a billfish on day four they would be in line to take home the R50 000 second prize. The race was wide open.

Jam-Packed II’s Wayne Holland released a black marlin on the final day and followed this with a blue marlin, thereby clinching his second place spot in the event as no other craft under 7m recorded two billfish.

There was much excitement at the final day’s weigh in because word on the beach was that both Charlie Brown and Rampage had both released marlin. Working on the firstfish-released principle, it was imperative to establish the exact time that these two fish had been released to determine which of the two craft would win the 2014 SADSAA Nissan Billfish Classic.

Rampage’s crew were first at the weigh-in and recorded a blue released at 10.28am. Charlie Brown’s crew, who had lost a third fish early in the morning after a fair period of fighting, managed to release another black marlin at 1.39pm. Leroy had heard the radio reports of Rampage’s achievement and had already accepted that his boat would be relegated to third position.

Thus the final result was Rampage first, followed by Jam-Packed II and Charlie Brown.

In his closing address, Phillip Marx, VicePresident of SADSAA and President of the Zululand Deep Sea Angling Association, warmly acknowledged Nissan and the other major sponsors. He also commended Dick Pratt and his entire committee for staging what was generally accepted as the best SADSAA Billfish Classic ever run by our association.

In addition, he recorded his gratitude to all the participating teams for the impeccable manner in which they played the game and enjoyed the competition, both on and off the field of play. Furthermore, he acknowledged the major role Richards Bay Ski-Boat Club played by providing the venue and backup assistance to ensure the event ran so smoothly.

The dates will soon be set for the 2015 hosting of this extremely popular event, so mark the latter two weeks of February in your diaries to ensure that you’ll be available to enter the 2015 Classic.

18 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

HISTORY The late Joe Mara (left) built his boat in 1947. This is one of the earliest photographs we have on record of a first generation ski-boat, seen here in the water at Vetch’s, Durban. Joe and angling friend Arthur Rodgers await the arrival of the box trailer containing their two outboard motors and other gear.

“Offshore fishing is not a spectator sport and you have to rely on the accuracy of personal experiences shared with you. As you know, sommige vistermanne kan nogal lekker lieg, maar daar is so ’n paar verhale wat redelik waar is en op rekord geplaas kan word.

Sadly, however, it’s actually the largely unspoken and unrecorded aspect that we really should have placed on record, but unfortunately that’s all gone, lost forever.”

Geoff Sonnenberg, 2011.

I

N general the history of sportfishing boats in South Africa remains indistinct to many. It was therefore decided to compile an A-Z account, in chronological order, as best we can, of the birth and evolution of both sportfishers and ski-boats in South African waters since around 1940.

Despite the superior information technology at our disposal, the lack of freely available records on the subject, especially written accounts for the period prior to 1960, remains a major chal-

Part 1

2o • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

lenge. The infinite reservoir of wellstocked memories of those that actually walked the talk is unfortunately also not with us anymore.

Fortunately, however, the accounts contained in previously published articles, the internet to some extent, and most importantly the reminiscences of some helpful pioneers, their descendants and friends came to the rescue.

Due to the abovementioned lack of documented information, authentication is sometimes difficult. Nonethe-

by Johan Smal less, we would like to share the outcome of our research with our readers in this three-part series called “The birth and evolution of sportfishing boats in South Africa”.

BOATING SINCE ANCIENT TIMES “Need is the mother of all invention,” Dave Rorke once wrote, adding a twist to the old proverb. Since the first recorded invention — documented as the construction of a shelter some 500 000 years ago — until this modern era of Nano technology, the progression of the human race fed on this very same principle.

It’s maybe a far-fetched idea, but one of the first discoveries could well have been during the Paleolithic age when someone survived a f lash f lood by clinging to a tree trunk. At the time there certainly could not have been even a thought of any progress, or indeed evolution. But who knows, perhaps therein lies the germination of the seed in the evolution of floating devices which would later be used to conquer the globe’s much feared water masses.

THE EARLIEST BOATS Boats have served as transportation since very early times. Circumstantial evidence, such as the findings in Flores Island near Indonesia — revealing some clues as to life on earth dating back some 900 000 years — suggest that boats have been used since ver y

Africa’s oldest known boat (6 000 BC), the Dufuna canoe, was discovered near the region of the River Yobe in Nigeria.

Various radio-carbon tests conducted indicate that the canoe is over 8 000 years old, thus making it the oldest in Africa and third oldest in the world.

Older than it are the dugouts from Pesse, Netherlands and Noyen-surSeine, France, which are allegedly very primitive in comparison to the modern design — even by our standards — of the Dufuna canoe. ancient times.

The earliest boats are thought to have been “log-boats”, with the oldest recovered sample in the world being the Pesse canoe, a dugout or hollowed tree trunk made from a Pinus sylvestris (Scott’s pine) somewhere between 8200 and 7600 BC. Some 5 000 years ago, the Mesopotamian civilisation was one of the first

Divers in the solent found pieces of the oldest British boats and which have been dated at ±6000 BC. This piece of wood shows signs that Mesolithic man had the ability to “plank” wood down the grain for a boat of around 10m.

In 1787 John Fitch built the world’s first steam-powered vessel, The Steamboat, for the Delaware River and for which he received a USA patent in 1791. kingdoms to flourish. They reportedly invented, inter alia, wheels, cuneiform (the earliest form of writing), and — most importantly for this account — sailboats. Since Mesopotamia was situated between the historical Euphrates and Tigris rivers (the modern day Tigris-

A little innovation equals a lot of comfort. In the early, pioneering days of ski-boating off Durban, it seems crew comfort was paramount. Four car seats bolted to the deck, facing backwards for trolling, and everybody aboard was happy.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 21

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Ski-boating in 1948. Trolling off Durban’s South Pier, where they accounted for a few ’cuda, were Horace Elms, Margaret Hamilton and Phyllis Cooperit (left). For some it might have been comfortable fishing, but not for others (right) who had to work a little harder: a ’cuda is gaffed by the angler while the other two crew feed fuel to a motor.

Euphrates Basin is located in Turkey, Syria and Iraq), they desperately needed water transportation for travel and trade, especially with the civilisation of the Indus valley (current day India and Pakistan).

Their boat designs were simple with hulls made from natural materials, primarily wood, although reed, bark and animal skins were also used. The first sails were square in shape and made of cloth, but the angles and directions could not be changed. Oars were used to steer, and if the wind blew in the direction that the sailboats desired to go, things went well. If that wasn’t the case, they had to wait until the wind was in their favour.

Though the first designs couldn’t accommodate lots of cargo or people, they were state-of-the-art craft of the time that revolutionised water travel and provided the basis for all future sailboats, indeed all sea-going vessels.

Since then boat design evolved steadily with advances in speed, manoeuvrability and cargo load capability reflecting unique aesthetic and technological innovations. The steel age brought with it multiple benefits, especially considering that the forests of Britain and Europe were being over-harvested for fire fuel, the building material of choice and as a source for keels for larger wooden vessels. Later, steel became the material of choice, provid-

ing not only an ultimately cheaper vessel, but also a stronger and larger one.

The industrial revolution probably had the most significant impact on technological advancement. It included the transition from manual production methods to machines, necessitating iron fabrication processes; the change from wood to coal as the fuel to drive industry; and allied to this, the increased use of steam power. Almost every aspect of their daily lives was influenced in some way — and the boat building was probably one of the industries to benefit most from this renaissance.

THE MATERIAL WORLD By the mid-19th century some boats

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 23

Bertie Puttock’s Norwegian pram, S15, on her underslung trailer on the beach at the Durban Ski-Boat Club in the 1950s. Powered by two outboards — a 3.5hp Scott Attwater and a 5hp Evinrude — the pram was highly manoeuvrable at sea and was fairly easy to handle on the soft sand. Soon the underslung trailers were dispensed with, in favour of the overhead version (below). boat fishing was mainly from converted advancement in order to meet their had been built with iron or steel frames yachts and small, open rowing boats needs. This included an urgent post-war but still planked in wood. In 1855 the restricted to False Bay and some proneed for employment, not just for serFrench patented a ferro-cement contected inshore areas. vicemen returning to their former jobs, struction that consisted of a steel wire Deep sea fishing was strictly a combut especially for many now jobless indiframework, covered (trowelled) over mercial venture at the time. Similar viduals seeking opportunities to earn with cement. Reinforced with bulkphenomena manifested in other major some money and feed their families. heads and other internal structures, it harbour cities around South Africa. In The South African coastline, stretchwas heavy but strong, easily repaired Durban, for example, the rowing boats ing more than 2 500km and blessed and, if sealed properly, would not leak were restricted to the Bay of Natal, now with an abundance of both wildlife and or corrode. This design soon faded into Durban Harbour. fish stocks, provided an opportunity for obsolescence as shipyards fine-tuned both sustenance and employment that steel construction. attracted countless individuals.

By the 1930s boats built completely THE BIRTH OF SKI-BOATS An established fishing industry existof steel were starting to replace the largIN SOUTH AFRICA ed in the Cape long before the war. The er wooden boats in most industrial uses, During Easter 1945 a pioneering indiarea was known as one of the better even some fishing fleets. Bigger, faster vidual stood fishing for ’cuda from recreational angling spots in South and more efficient boats and ships — Durban’s West Street Groyne beach, Africa as well, and anglers were taking purposely designed for, inter alia, cargo, dreaming of getting his bait past the fish from the beaches, rocky outcrops passenger, fishing and war requirements backline to where large gamefish were and the breakwater walls of the many — were built and floated from shipyards feeding on huge shoals of baitfish. He harbours in the region. Recreational at an unprecedented rate. had been watching local surfers who in During the Second World War, boating and shipping was considered a key component in manoeuvrability and the deployment of resources to keep the war machine turning. All aquatic transport was dominated by war needs, and even large passenger and fishing fleets were modified accordingly.

It was only fitting then that the final surrender agreements — ending the war on 2nd September 1945 — were signed aboard the deck of a vessel, an American battleship, the USS Missouri.

POST-WAR ERA The menacing war years were devastating in all respects, yet the human race persevered by sustaining their quest for SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 25

those days used a wooden paddleski which they paddled out to sea, then surfed back to the beach.

Challenged by the realities and urged by this need, he decided to build a paddleski large enough to take an outboard motor which would take him through the surf without getting swamped.

This invention ultimately resulted in Hayden Page Grey being acknowledged as the undisputed pioneer of ski-boat fishing in South Africa.

Not knowing how to start the design he drew the plans on his garage floor, with chalk, so that he could rub out any errors and change the design as he progressed. He built a light, fully decked-in boat, 11ft 8in long, 4ft wide and 9in deep, capable of carrying two persons. It consisted of nine watertight compartments and a hatch to hold the fishing tackle.

As marine ply was not available at the time, he used 18⁄ --inch-thick plywood covered by a layer of aeroplane linen and sealed with dope to make it waterproof. His boat had no sides, only a handrail to hold on to in case he was in danger of being washed off. He bolted on an 18” x 1” x 12” piece of oak to the transom to accommodate a 5hp Bendix air-cooled motor.

Two rowlocks and oars were part of his equipment as, due to petrol rationing at the time, he was not allowed to use his car ration for any other purpose.

Haydon and a friend, Jack Bellord, carried the boat, motor and tackle down to the beach and across the dunes at Bell Street, north of Vetch’s Pier and where the Durban SkiBoat Club is presently located — there was no other way down in those days — from where they rowed out to the end of Vetch’s Pier.

“We did some fishing with bay tackle,” recalled 73-year-old Haydon in a 1977 interview. “We got smashed up several times by what, I don’t know.

Returning to the beach I wanted to see what the boat could do in the surf. We didn’t do very well during out first outing — we got turned over very smartly.

“I eventually got permission to use petrol — now the game was on! We discovered how to catch ’cuda which were plentiful around Limestone Reef, running parallel to the coast and northwards, just seaward of Vetch’s Reef.

“Using spoons only, we would catch a dozen before breakfast and get to work on time,” he concluded.

There are two schools of thought on how the ski-boat earned its name.

Some say that it was originally referred to as a “ski-board” — from the marriage of paddleski and surfboard, then becoming “ski-boat” — whilst others believe the name evolved as the motorised paddleski developed into a

False Bay’s first ski-boat was Brian Grobbler’s 18ft marine-ply hull with a fibreglass skin, built by Boris Jameson in Johannesburg. She was launched at Buffels Bay in 1961 and was powered by a 40hp Johnson with a 9hp Johnson auxiliary. The Cape’s first sportfisher, Vic Cohen’s Doreen, had begun fishing False Bay 20 years earlier. fully-f ledged boat. In his book, A Fisherman’s Tale, author Joe Mara only ever referred to it as a “ski-boat”, a name that must have caught on by as early as 1946, the first time he went to sea aboard one.

The ski-boat marked a major turning point for recreational offshore fishing in South Africa. Based on the early successes of this invention, many of these small craft were built, improving design after design as each new model was launched. At this stage boats were transported and launched from underslung trailers which had to be manhandled across about 80 metres of deep, soft sand to get to the water’s edge.

Whilst being launched the crew would unload the boat as a fully laden craft would cause the trailer to bog down.

All heavy equipment would be taken down to the water’s edge by box trailer.

The complete underslung trailer assembly had to be pushed waist-deep into the water to enable the boat to float clear. In calm conditions, with the trailer clear and pulled to beyond the high-water mark, the boat would be loaded and the motor started. Then the boat would driven at full pace to where the fish were.

Later, as ski-boat angling became more popular, the port authorities began to extert more control on the pastime and the Vetch’s Pier Ski-Boat Club was formed. Permission to launch from the beach at Vetch’s Pier had to be obtained from the Port Captain who laid down strict safety requirements, including life jackets, anchor and rope, paddles, flares, compass, first aid kit, fire extinguisher and two outboard motors plus spare fuel. Apart from this, each boat was required to have three watertight compartments. This stipulation WAS already in place in 1947.

Seaworthiness examinations were conducted by the marine surveyor’s office, under the control of the port captain.

So poor was the relationship between ski-boaters and the port captain that he considered ski-boats to be “a menace to shipping”.

So, by 1947 dual motors it was, as skiboats would head out to sea with both motors performing at full speed — in those days often a bigger 5hp motor with a 3hp Seagull auxiliary. Champions, Evinrudes and Johnsons seemed the most popular, together with the everfaithful Seagull.

On the return trip the boat was simply driven to the beach where the loading and carting back to firm footing had to be repeated.

In the early days in heavy sea conditions with pounding waves, however, launching and getting through the surf proved to be extremely challenging. As these boats were underpowered and too slow to outrun the breaking waves, the engines had to be wrapped and held on deck. They would only be fitted to the transom after the boat had been rowed to safety beyond the last breaker.

On the return in heavy conditions, boats were turned bow-on to the swells some 100 metres out and paddled backwards to the beach as fast as possible.

In many instances a cautious skipper would throw out the anchor and ride in on this. The man in the bow slowly paid out rope whilst ensuring that the boat remained head-on to the swells at all times. Needless to say, accidents were plentiful with frequent capsizes and, sadly, the occasional fatality.

Fortunately, launching and especially beaching of ski-boats were made substantially easier with the introduction of overhead trailers and the availability of more powerful motors which subsequently followed. The boats could now go out and come in at speed, irrespective of the condition of the surf.

THE INTRODUCTION OF SPORTFISHERS IN SOUTH AFRICA The legendar y Cape of Storms was renowned as a place to keep away from, an attitude widely held, even by sailors around the globe. The seas that run in from the ocean — east and west — then build up on the inshore reefs and ledges, had sunk many a boat, big SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 27

In 1948, after selling his first sportfisher to Hymie Policansky, Jimmy Rawbone-Viljoen imported Belinda, a brand-new 32ft V8 petrol-engined Chris Craft directly from the factory in the USA. Specially equipped for sportfishing, she could do 32 knots, and small, often with tragic loss of life.

Similar to Hayden Grey’s pioneering spirit, anglers with less superstition, perhaps clearer heads and certainly the ability to learn quickly and take the lead were soon able to separate fact from fiction. They showed that Cape Point need not be feared, yet it had to be respected, and that fishing in the broad waters beyond was not difficult. On bad days, though — and there are many of those in the Cape — constant vigilance is necessary.

According to records, the first person to acquire a sportfisher in the Cape during the WW2 years was Vic Cohen.

He purchased his first boat, Doreen, a 30ft cabin cruiser of unknown origin, in 1940. Her outings were restricted to False Bay as moving past Cape Point was still considered to be far too dangerous.

Indeed, there was also no reason to

28 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

go beyond False Bay as the target species there were most diverse and the numbers bountiful.

Another sportfishing pioneer, Jimmy Rawbone-Viljoen, acquired his first boat — a second-hand craft around 28ft called Mathilda — in 1945. In 1948 he sold this boat to Hymie Policansky and imported a brand-new 32ft V8 petrolengined Chris Craft directly from the factory in the USA. Specially equipped for sportfishing, she was named Belinda and could do 32 knots, the fastest boat in the fleet at that stage.

In December 1949 Hymie Policansky replaced Mathilda with Poketta which was sailed down from Durban where she was built either by the Fred Nichols Boat Yard or Herby Spradbrow.

Also around at the time and pushing the boundaries of exploiting the waters beyond Cape Point was Bluefin, owned

by Wernly Gilmore. With the famous

Edward “Jock” Dichmont, who normally sailed with him, they were the first to reach the shipping lanes some 40 miles south off Cape Point in 1950.

Today this is a trivial distance for sportfishermen — even on small skiboats — but in those years it was considered a very long way out and an achievement of note.

Unfortunately, it seems that the introduction and subsequent development of sportfishers in other provinces during this period was not as meticulously documented as Charles Horne did with respect to the Cape’s vessels.

When it comes to early sportfishers manufactured in Durban, the few seagoing vessels destined for offshore fishing were, without doubt, custom-made by Fred Nichols Boat Yard.

These craft appear to have been built from the late 1940s to about 1965.

It’s interesting to note that during 1943, a Naval Team commissioned three South African boatbuilders for the local manufacture of a number of the new motor launches required for harbour defence. They were Fred Nichols (nine boats) and Herby Spradbrow (three) in Durban and Thesens at Knysna (two). As the boats were constructed of wood, this experience probably served these boatbuilders ver y well in gaining the required experience to continue to build fine fishing vessels well into the 1960s.

In parts two and three of this series we will deal with the subsequent advancement of ski-boats and sportfishers respectively. We are in the process of correlating information already received from many sources, but if any reader can assist with extra insight into this part of the history of our sport, please contact Johan Smal at <johansmal@telkomsa.net> or (028) 445-9698 or 083 308 0300.

in conjunction with

magazine

invites YOU to join our Learn to target and catch billfish from experienced skippers and crew during Kenya’s prime seasons.

Following the immensely successful billfish universities held since 2010, the following practical course has been organised to assist anglers to learn more about targeting billfish.

25th January to 31st January 2015 Six nights accommodation plus four days of fishing for black-, blue- and striped marlin, as well as sailfish, on four different sportfishers.

Certificates upon completion

!

W O

N K

O O B

• Onboard instruction

• No classroom-style instruction • All tackle will be supplied, but own tackle may be used

For a full itinerary and full syllabus of all aspects that will be covered, contact Erwin Bursik: Tel: (031) 572-2289 • E-mail: bursik@mags.co.za Lyn Adams: Tel/Fax: (011) 425-2052 • E-mail: skiboatgauteng@icon.co.za

• Extra social fishing available on request

TOP CATCHES

by SKI-BOAT reporter

The crew and anglers aboard Ol’ Jogi II celebrate landing the world’s first thousand-pound marlin for 2014.

Kenya cements its position as a top fishing destination

F

RIDAY, 21 March turned out to be a big day for the crew aboard Ol’ Jogi II — a 33ft Bertram with two CAT 3208 engines — fishing out of the Kenyan coastal town of Watamu. They ended the day celebrating the catch of the world’s first

grander for 2014 — a beautiful 1 062 lb blue marlin.

Around 11am, while trolling on the centre Mlima Ledge off Watamu, the skipper, Stuart Simpson, saw the marlin come up to the boat’s port teaser and called it a grander immediately. “I knew when I

first saw it that it was a grander,” said Stuart,“as I had never seen one like it.”

The marlin came to the teaser three times before switching to a 50 lb flat line which the crew — with little time to deliberate — had to frantically wind away from the lunging fish which was SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 31

Stuart Simpson (right) congratulates Roger Sutherland on his achievement.

trying to take it. Then the marlin proceeded to “prop-watch” six feet behind the transom for the next 20 minutes before finally dropping back to take the tag line.

It was hooked on a 14-inch blackand-purple kona rigged with two 7732 Mustad 12/0 hooks.

“It was incredibly tense,” said experienced British angler Roger Sutherland who did a brilliant job on the rod throughout. “There was a flurry as we took the flat line out of the water, then nervous silence as the fish followed us for what felt like hours!”

32 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

When the fish eventually inhaled the lure everyone knew it was well hooked as the rubber band on the tag line didn’t pop until the fish went down. Roger stoically fought the fish for two-and-a-half hours on 100 lb line class on an 80W bent butt. “As the fish was hooked, we came back on the drag immediately,” Stuart said, “but once it had stopped running and settled down we jacked it up to about 60 lb of drag.”

Within an hour the wireman, Sammy Tuva, had the trace double-wrapped and tried to hang on, but the fish was far too strong and ran off another 100

metres of line and sounded.

Roger has caught many marlin, but his memories of this fight, using drag that he did not believe was possible, will remain with him forever.

When the fish reached the gantry at Hemingways and weighed in at 1 062 lb, all present were thrilled to celebrate the second grander caught in the history of Kenyan fishing — and the first grander caught worldwide in 2014.

“I knew we had done it when the scales showed 451kg with its head still on the ground,” said Stuart,“and the celebrations began.”

Asked how he felt to have caught Kenya’s second grander, Stuart said, “This fish is another milestone in Watamu’s fishing history and is very important to reconfirm Kenya’s position as a serious big gamefishing destination. We have incredibly diverse waters here, with five of the billfish species available locally, and now we have proved once again that monster fish are off our coast.”

The first grander caught in Kenya was caught on Neptune, skippered by Angus Paul, eight or nine years ago. It weighed 1 197 lb and its mount still hangs on the wall in Malindi.

Stuart Simpson has been fishing professionally for ten years and in that time has caught over 400 marlin. During that period he has brought fewer than ten back to the gantry. With the exception of this grander, his first, all of the other landed marlin have died during the fight.

Roger Sutherland has come to Hemingways every year for the last 11 years seeking his dream fish. He has certainly accomplished his mission — but that doesn’t mean he won’t be back!

MOTOR SCENE Putting Hondaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new BF100 and BF80 through their paces

by Erwin Bursik

A

S the aircraft that was carrying me to Cape Town banked for its final approach, the magnificent vista of False Bay — filled with sunlight and flat, calm waters — was visible through my cabin window. What luck! I was heading to Cape Town specifically so that I could visit the impressive Harbour Island Marina and test two craft powered by the latest generation Honda 100hp and Honda 80hp motors. Indeed, this job does have some perks.

The curved arms of the Cape Peninsula create and protect False Bay, making it one of the country’s greatest stretches of ocean water on which to play — if the southeaster doesn’t blow!

On frequent calm days it’s an offshore boater’s haven, allowing most facets of watersport, boating and fishing to be

enjoyed. Fortunately for me the weather gods had provided us with one of these “nice”days.

When I arrived at Harbour Island I met up with my support team for the day — Leshzek Lotze of Honda Marine, Jeremy Barnes of Honda Marine Somerset West, Craig Wilson of Honda Marine Durban and Dawie Urtel with his skippers training machine which regularly pounds the waves at Sodwana Bay. Then I was introduced to the craft on which Honda had chosen to launch these new generation motors. First up was the Offshore Point Runner 660, produced for Honda Marine Somerset West, which proudly carried a pair of BF100 Honda motors. The second craft was a Stingray 600 deep-vee semi- rigid inflatable with two BF80 motors on her transom.

These craft, along with a Rascala FM20 powered by a single 100hp Honda motor, were lined up at the head of the marina’s slipway which is in close proximity to the Gordon’s Bay Ski-Boat Club. I was able to fully appreciate their below-water-level design as I walked around and closely inspected parts of the craft I wouldn’t be able to see once they had been slipped into the water. Very interesting indeed, especially the incredible vee of the Stingray’s hard hull which later produced an incredible ride.

Once we were on the water and had exited through the Harbour Island piers and were past the two buoys indicating the channel through the offshore reef, I started concentrating on the primary purpose for my visit. I was there to review these two new Honda SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 37

outboards which fit into the range of craft most often used by ski-boaters off the southern African coast ie: between 60- and 100hp. Honda now has 60-, 80-, 90- and 100hp motors available.

At the time False Bay’s surface was being rippled by a light southeasterly wind and the remnants of a swell from the same direction which had built up during the preceding few days of persistent southeasterlies. My aim was to get the feel of the two twin-powered craft.

I purposely did not even launch the Rascala FM20 as I’d already tested her at St Francis Bay (see SKI-BOAT May/June 2005) and I knew a 100hp motor on her transom would make her fly. As the objective of the exercise was to test the motors’ performance, I decided to work the motors harder on the bigger and heavier boats as I’m far more interested in “torque and grunt” than in high-speed exhibitionism.

I also didn’t bother to study the technical literature supplied by Honda before I got on the water. I prefer to keep my non-technical mind uncluttered so it can be filled with the onwater experiences of motor performance. Afterwards I would compare my experiences on the water with the manufacturers’ technical details.

After all, when one looks at new motors, as I did on the three boats before me, I defy anyone to declare they can see the difference. Obviously, colours and design might change slightly, but even removing the motor cowling shows most people (myself included) very little other than the “whoa” factor. There are a lot of mechanical aspects neatly positioned and hidden away for the majority of us that only a highly trained Honda technician can really appreciate.

So, after a quick glance over them all I was ready to get on the water. The first test was on Dawie Urtel’s Stingray

600 with its centre console helm station. It’s designed for simplicity because, in his words, “Students can break anything!” And through waves and other hairy experiences during skippers’ training, simplicity is best.

Behind the helm station are rows of seats specifically designed for students to sit on and hold on, horse-riding-style.

The power the twin Honda BF80s produced with four-blade props was just incredible, and Dawie eventually persuaded me to drive like a cowboy.

“From an idle start, floor the throttle — and concentrate,” he said.

It’s not what I would normally do, but Dawie told me these motors are programmed to correctly increase speed without hurting the motors. As a result there was none of my usual gradual increasing of speed necessary to attain maximum revs.

I floored the throttle and hung on — just as well, because the deep-vee craft jumped out of the water to full speed in a matter of seconds, and it took all of my strength to hold on and eventually pull back on the throttles.

I was too scared to appreciate what was happening the first time, but the more I did it the more I was able to appreciate how the computer directed this take-off in a controlled manner.

Afterwards, when I watched Dawie doing the same act while I photographed his boat in action, I got an even better perspective of this out-thegate action. Note, I didn’t say “out-thehole”, as there was no hole — just white water and, like a missile, the takeoff was smooth and apparently effortless. Not even the most powerful speedboats I’ve skippered over the years have supplied the same take-off.

“What about in and out of turns in the surf?” you may ask. I wondered the same thing, so I tried it dozens of times.

Provided I worked the throttles properly, I made those manoeuvres extremely

efficiently and fast, in full control of the 160 horses behind me.

At high speed the Stingray 600’s deep-vee and impressive aft chines really came to the fore. With the slight chop and swell, with us doing over 40 knots, the Stingray’s hull sliced through the water, riding on about the aft third of its hull. At this speed there is bound to be lateral movement, but this is corrected by the hull and I didn’t have to correct it via the steering. If we got a hard knock from a broadside chop and the craft momentarily tilted to the opposite side, the aft long extension of the supporting sponson straightened the ride almost immediately.

This truly provided me with a full display of manageable excessive power (remember, I had a crew of three aboard and not the usual skippers’ training load of eight people) and a surprisingly smooth ride.

Despite the great ride I had on the Stingray, it was really the new Point Runner 660 that had captured my attention, because she’s essentially a big gamefishing boat.

It’s a long run from Gordon’s Bay to Cape Point, and further still to the Canyon, but Jayson Gillham, son of a well known WP skipper, has done it many times in the Point Runner 660, albeit powered by the older model 75hp Hondas. Even while carrying a half-ton of ice in his fish hatches and returning with a good load of yellowfin, he says they operate extremely well.

After playing with the craft extensively, including a long run of 30-odd kilometres to Seal Island, I have to concur that Jayson is spot-on with his trust in the Point Runner 660.

My main job was to judge how the new model BF100 Hondas powered this craft. It was a bit of a Catch 22 situation: I couldn’t write about the motor’s performance without being aware of the craft’s hull-over-water performance SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 39

40 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

and vice-versa.

Having just come off the Stingray with its electrifying performance, I was initially a tad disappointed when I tried the same stunts on the Point Runner 660. Then I gave myself a little pep talk.

“Wake up, Bursik! What are you thinking expecting a much larger and heavier craft with six crew aboard to act like a Polaris Missile?” After all, between twin 80s and 100s there’s only a 25% increase in horsepower and much more than a 50-60% increase in gross weight, as well as the vast difference of wetted areas of the two craft’s hulls to consider. We all know that the wetted area is the greatest factor in retardation of a planing hull’s performance over water.

With that sorted out, I revised both trial philosophy and mindset to ensure I was thinking straight and not letting adrenaline and testosterone rule my thinking.

The Point Runner 660’s design incorporates a modified hull design that has proved to be very practical in Cape waters. She also has a redesigned top deck with dodger cabin and walkaround access to the foredeck area — not forgetting the Capetonian fixation with huge fish hatches which had to be added to the mix.

As this was the first Point Runner 660 and she had only been on the water for about six months, Jeremy, Jayson and the other guys fishing on her maintain there is still some tweaking to be done to make her perfect.

However, as she is she still worked extremely well, especially in the big seas out in the deep.

During my time aboard her I found her she provided an extremely soft ride under all conditions and speeds. Above all, she was very dry in the beam sea

chop that got bigger and bigger as the southeaster began to strengthen.

The torque of the two BF100 Hondas was most impressive and provided all the power I needed when throwing her — and the excessive human load aboard — through very tight turns in simulated surf conditions.

Into the turn, bringing her around and especially pulling her out of the turn to jump out of the hole and get on the plane as quickly as possible, the twin Hondas provided everything I asked of them. There was no cavitating and certainly more than enough out-the-hole power which made me careful about not quickly flooring the throttles and thereby repeating the consequence of my action on the Stingray.

One of the optional extras on this new breed of Honda is an incremental trolling speed facility whereby the motor can be programmed to increase engine speeds in 50rpm increments.

This will be a major advantage to those of us who constantly troll for billfish. At the touch of a button one can increase or decrease revs by 50rpm simultaneously on both motors. It will save dramatically on the setting and resetting of throttle levers while scrutinising the rev counter to obtain the speed-overwater required.

As with any rig, fine tuning is essential and the boffs at Honda Somerset West were not blinded by patriotism in this regard. The new 100hp Hondas were only installed a few days prior to my arrival and the “test pilots” at Honda SW had not had a chance to tweak the rig before I tested her. Motor height on transom, propping and alignment all still needed looking at to find what adjustments were necessary to perfect the combination.

Speaking to Jayson, who has skippered the craft a lot with the 75hp Honda combination, was very interesting, especially when it came to discussing performance and fuel consumption. Jayson maintains he found the 75s to be adequate for this craft, but he really enjoyed the substantially increased “grunt” and cruising speeds with the new 100hp motors.

Jayson is a very experienced angler and knows the precise details of his consumption figures for his excursions to the deep with the 75hp motors.

They were more than impressive, to a point where I thought he was trying to pull the wool over my eyes.

Before we left the harbour I checked the fuel on the Point Runner 660, while ostensibly looking through all the hatches on the craft. After about six hours at sea, with a lot of heavy throttle work and the long, sustained cruising run to Seal Island, I estimated we had covered 70-80km.

The two fuel cans which were connected to the motors were almost empty — say 3-4 litres left in each. For safety reasons we changed cans just before we ran back into Harbour Island as the waves on the reef were beginning to stand up a bit. The tally was a maximum of 45 litres in total used. I saw it myself and was very surprised — and impressed!

The entire exercise of reviewing these two craft and the two sets of new generation BF80 and BF100 Honda fourstroke motors on the water off Gordon’s Bay was a very pleasurable experience. To say I was impressed with the smooth running and performance of both sets of motors under every conceivable boating manoeuvre would be an understatement.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 41

HONDA BF80/BF100 TECHINCAL INFORMATION MONG the many innovative technical aspects incorporated in these new generation Honda Marine fourstroke motors I have isolated a few of these for particular mention ...

A

650rpm and 1 000rpm, in a series of eight controlled steps.

Engine speed can be controlled in a downward direction by simply pressing the downward side of the dash-mounted switch. This provides precise slow-speed control, making it ideal for fishing and slow-speed manoeuvres.

• BLASTTM is a unique Honda Intelligent technology where the Engine Command Module provides optimum control of fuel injection and ignition timing during rapid acceleration when the motor’s ignition timing is advanced to its maximum, and it enriches the fuel:air ratio to prevent engine knocking.

• VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) varies the lift and duration of the intake valves’ opening to provide optimum performance at both low- and high RPM. At lower RPM VTEC uses “mild profile” cam lobes to operate the intake valves. At high RPM VTEC engages a “high profile” cam lobe to operate the intake valves. This provides a broader, flatter torque curve with smooth power delivery.

• Trolling/variable speed control allows for accurate control of engine speeds between idle (650rpm) and 1 000rpm. A dash-mounted switch allows the boat user to increase engine speeds in increments of 50rpm from between

42 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

• ECOMO — Economy Controlled Motor — is Honda’s intelligent “lean burn control technology” which is brought into play by a slight pull back on the throttles after the BLAST acceleration to get onto the plane. This slightly lowers the RPM to enter the lean burn control range (cruising mode) resulting in superior fuel economy.

BACK TO BASICS

by Anton Gets

AXLES Trailer manufacturers have come a long way in producing trailers that are wellsuited to particular boats, and if the boat fits properly on the trailer, that will reduce some of the wear and tear.

Most manufacturers are also keeping up with the times and are upgrading when new products are introduced to make parts last longer, which obviously reduces the cost of your maintenance bill.

The advent of the oil-filled axle was a radical change that really extended the life of the axle bearings. In all my years of boating I have never changed bearings on an oil-filled axle. Well, except for the time when the trailer wheel collided with an overgrown coconut palm in Guinjata. It bent the axle and was towed back to the coast askew.

The oil-filled axle has come a long way and I believe it is well worth the

This trailer is well-used and the wheels are often submerged in saltwater during slipway and surf launches. This photo shows the extent to which one has to go to make sure the trailer’s brakes work. This particular brake system and the springs are serviced once a month and are sprayed with the recommended petrol and oil mix after each launch, but notice how quickly rust starts to show. Look carefully at the springs — that’s just two weeks after the wheels were removed and the parts were well oiled.

A trailer disc brake assembly photographed before a few immersions in saltwater.

S

O, you’ve got a boat, you’ve got a trailer and you know how to launch your boat and take care of it, but what about your trailer?

It’s also exposed to sand, sunshine and saltwater, and they take a toll on even the best systems. Then there’s the usual wear and tear to consider.

In this issue we’ll discuss a few aspects of trailer maintenance that you should heed if you want to ensure that your equipment works properly.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 45

Some people swaddle their trailer springs in oil/grease-soaked fabric to help prevent rust after being immersed in saltwater. extra cost of fitting it.

The old, conventional greased bearing axles still work, but they require a lot of maintenance. If you have this type of axle, then before a long trip it’s advisable to replace the wheel-bearings and seals, especially if your trailer’s axle enters the water often — even for freshwater launches. Also remember to pack a full set of spare bearings and seals when you venture on these long journeys.

In addition to grease, there are a number of insoluble high-heat lubricant products that you can use to prolong the life of your axle’s bearings.

Saltwater is relentless, and before you know it moving parts can seize, and the last thing you want to happen is a breakdown on the road, especially if you’re far from home or on the way to your holiday destination.

Whatever kind of axle you have — oil-filled or greased — remember to properly release your trailer’s handbrake before travelling. If you leave the handbrake on, the brakes will overheat and burn the seals, then the oil or grease will leak out and the bearings will run dry, overhead and disintegrate.

SPRINGS Again the choice of springs for a specific trailer depends on the weight of the boat and the type of terrain you will be towing on. I would strongly recommend that you use a heavy-duty spring with at least six blades.

Remember, these are made of spring steel and are susceptible to rust, so they also require maintenance.

I use a mixture of outboard oil (70%) and petrol (30%) to protect the springs.

Each time after the trailer has been washed and rinsed with freshwater, allow it to dry, then use a domestic spray bottle to spray the oil-petrol mixture all over the springs and joints.

Also remember not to overload your trailer — it does not help your springs or wheel-bearings.

BRAKING SYSTEMS There are two types of braking systems — manual and hydraulic. The manual system works mechanically using rods, chains or cables. The trailer’s tow hitch slides into a housing, and when you apply the brakes in the car the trailer rides forward, the slide rod pushes back onto a lever which, in turn, pulls the cable and applies the brakes on the wheels. It all sounds simple, but it’s a

Don’t underestimate the importance of the tow ball, trailer hitch and safety chain.

Not only must the specifications of the coupling be standard, but they must also be regularly maintained. The vehicle’s tow hitch in the picture covers both the “ball” and trailer “ring-style” of coupling.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 47

The hydraulic brake systems of a double-axle trailer. The towing coupling activates the plunger on the hydraulic master cylinder. This results in the fluid being pumped to each caliper on the four wheels. The manual handbrake proves very useful when coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle and when uncoupling again.

48 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

very important part of safe towing.

My advice on which type of braking system to choose goes hand-in-hand with the size of the rigs — the bigger the rig the more sophisticated the braking system must be.

I’ve found that it’s much easier to use the disc-brake system rather than the drum brakes. Not only are they more efficient, but they’re also much easier to maintain. You can get the discbrake system in mechanical or hydraulic, and for the big rigs you should definitely choose the hydraulic system.

Hydraulic brake systems can be fitted with either a mechanical or an electronic hitch. The mechanical hitch slides through the housing and pushes the push rod onto the hydraulic master cylinder. This pushes the fluid through the brake pipes to the brake calipers which close the brake pads onto the disc, thus slowing down the trailer.

The only problem is that hydraulic mechanisms are more refined and are machined with zero tolerances, so they rust up very easily. The fully mechanical systems have bigger tolerances.

When storing your trailer, and after rinsing and oiling the axles and springs, park the trailer with the brakes off, using wheel chocks to ensure it doesn’t move. If you’ll be storing it for a long time, jack and tressle your axle so that

the tyres are rested.

Earlier in the series there was a question regarding whether one should use stainless-steel components for trailers or other non-corrosive components.

I have trolled through the net and there are many options for components out there, but most of them come from the US and are very expensive. In the past we have swapped hi-tensile bolts for stainless-steel bolts, but remember that this weakens the systems.

We have also had stainless-steel sleeves made for calipers, but if they’re not regularly looked after they also corrode. If you are launching a lot into the sea, then you can remove the calipers and discs quite easily to protect them from corrosion, and then refit them when you’re going on long journeys or are travelling a lot in traffic.

I use a lot of the Rutherford QuickSilver or Yamaha Marine grease when fitting bolts and components to my trailer, and that makes it much easier to maintain or repair the trailer parts.

Hopefully our South African trailer manufacturers will also continue working to reduce the high cost of trailer maintenance. In the meantime, before ordering your trailer or axle, make sure that you get the right products for the right job. Ultimately, this will cut down greatly on the maintenance and repairs your trailer requires.

BACK TO BASICS

by Paul Borcherds

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 â&#x20AC;¢ 53

I

S tying a good knot an advanced art form or just another task of an average fishing day? Knot-tying will remain an inescapable topic as long as we rely on the different types of fishing line. The debate will always continue that crimps may offer the most reliable way to secure terminal tackle to heavy monofilament and fluorocarbon leaders, but as far as I’m concerned good anglers will forever be knot savvy.

In the next few issues of SKI-BOAT magazine I’ll be taking a closer look at the best knots to use for particular lines and in particular situations — some basic and some a bit more advanced. In the meantime, here’s an introduction and a few basic things to remember when tying knots.

Knots have a few basic but essential functions: to attach the main line to the reel, to form a double line, to connect the leader to the double line and to attach a hook, lure or swivel to the leader and to the terminal end of the setup. Although hundreds of different knots exist, only a relatively small number of those cover all the bases for most applications and types of lines.

Too many anglers learn new knots to impress their fellow anglers, yet they fail to implement them correctly on the type and diameter of the line used. Knots designed for monofilament may not work as well or may even be totally inadequate on super lines (braid) and fluorocarbon leaders. Braid is notorious for being prone to slipping, and fluorocarbon is extremely hard to seat, so only a few specialised knots will work to make these types slip-proof.

Another problem is that there are many well-designed knots, like the Bimini Twist, which are often poorly executed and end up not working. If I see a fellow angler struggling with the motion of the boat whilst trying to tie a Bimini to form a double line on 10kg line, I often tell him to rather tie a simple Spider Hitch. I have yet to see a fish lost on a Spider Hitch, but have seen my fair share of fish lost due to badly tied Bimini knots.

TURN, TURN, TURN Depending on the line and knot strength, there’s a specific number of turns that should be made with the tag-end around the standing line, and vice-versa, in the knots which will be described in this series of articles. For example, if you’re required to make six turns with the tag-end and you only make five, you may not have made enough turns to keep the knot from slipping. If you make seven turns instead of six, you may have too many turns and you may not be able to draw it tight enough to keep it from slipping. There may be variables in some knots, but most good anglers will agree that it is critical to make the proper number of turns or wraps.

There are also knots that perform well for some diameters and extremely poorly for other diameters. A good example is the popular Improved Clinch Knot which is more suitable for smaller diameter line classes. If you use line thicker than 30kg monofilament, it’s very difficult to close the knot tight enough to provide a secure hold.

Generally, where larger diameters are used and the knots require numerous turns of the tag-end around the main line, they are usually difficult to close. In this series of articles the maximum pound or kilogram test to use will be indicated with each knot.

Another point to remember whilst connecting two very different diameters of lines or line-to-leader with, for example, the Double Uni-knot is to ensure that fewer turns are needed on the heavier of the two lines. It is more difficult to seat the heavier diameter tightly against the smaller diameter, which will result in slippage almost every time.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 55

MINE’S BETTER THAN YOURS Every so often someone will suggest that their knot for the same application is better than the one I suggest and that their grandpa used it and caught this and that, etc. A very simple test to decide which is the best knot — and which does not require any complicated equipment — is the following: Select two identical hooks. Take a short length of monofilament or braid and tie the two different knots to the hooks at both ends of the mono or braid. It is important that both knots have been mastered properly to ensure that there’s no discrepancy later on. Grip each hook with a pair of pliers and begin to slowly move your hands apart until one of the knots fails.

Repeat this test ten times, because some knots are very good on a steady pull but fail when a slight jerk is placed on the knot. Tie another ten samples of the two knots to the hooks and this time hold the pliers firmly and jerk each of them apart.

After testing 20 knots (ten steady pulls and ten jerks), you will have a fair indication as to which knot is best.

The most important thing is to realise that no knot breaks until it slips! This applies equally to knots tied in a hawser rope to hold a large ship at the dock and when you tie 4kg monofilament to a small lure.

KNOT SAVVY TIPS Although knots serve as necessary links, they also represent the most fragile point in a setup. The process of wrapping, twisting and cinching inevitably weakens the line. It is, however, possible to reduce some of the pressure by moistening the line before pulling the knots tight.

Apply the following tips when you next tie a knot: • A little lubricant will reduce monofilament threatening friction. Some detail-oriented anglers have been known to sprinkle talc or graphite on the line, or to dab vegetable oil on the wraps and turns, while most follow a pre-clinch ritual of running knots between their lips to apply a liberal dose of saliva — the universal lubricant.

• Tighten all knots with slow, steady pressure, taking care to keep wraps from getting out of order and climbing atop one another.

• Check your work for untidy wraps, nicks and abrasions, and remember that it is always worth the effort to cut the line and retie a poorly formed knot.

• When attaching terminal tackle, it may help to anchor the hook or swivel on a fixed object to provide a solid pull point for tightening a finished knot.

• Gloves and pliers protect hands, while helping knot-tiers get a firm grip when pulling tight. This is especially important when seating braid, fluorocarbon and heavy monofilament leaders.

• Practise your knots! If you only need three or four different types of knots for your fishing application, then make sure that you can make them well under all circumstances — on land, on the boat and even under low light conditions.

In the next issue of SKI-BOAT we will start off with a few knots that have stood the test of time and are must-know knots for all anglers — the Uni-knot (used to tie lines and leaders to hooks and swivels), the Double Uni-knot or Uni-Uni-knot (used to connect lines of similar and different diameters together), the Gryp or Non-slip Loop Nail knot (used to attach most diameters of line to hooks and swivels), and the Snell (a non-slip shank-wrap to secure lines and leaders to different hook types).

Even if you already know how to tie these knots, read the articles — you may still learn something new.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 57

PLACES

58 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

by Dave Lewis HE stilt fishermen of south west Sri Lanka are an iconic image of this former British colony previously called Ceylon, an idyllic tropical island nation that sits south of the Indian sub-continent, strategically marking the junction of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal.

Sitting gnome-like on a precarious stick platform lashed with vines midway up a bamboo pole that has been hammered into the seabed, these traditional fishermen are a nostalgic glimpse of the fishing of yesteryear.

Well I just had to have a go, and yes before you ask those bamboo poles are a lot stronger than they look!

T

The author tries his hand at traditional Sri Lankan fishing — “up the pole”.

Once in situ, pole in hand, I was actually quite comfortable and soon became transfixed trying to hook the myriad tropical oddities flashing in the clear water beneath me. I soon got into the groove, though I’m not quite sure what the minibus full of hyperexcited camera-toting Chinese tourists made of the scene before them when they stormed the beach, D-Day style, and found “little ol’ me” hard at work!

Simon Powell’s chrome-plated 20kg king mackerel which smashed his suface popper in a show of unbridled agression.

ABUNDANT SPORTFISH I first started hearing rumors of superlative sportfishing in Sri Lanka about ten years ago: “Monster GTs and dogtooth tuna, countless big snapper and grouper, billfish, yellowfin tuna and many other desirable sportfish can be caught in abundance there,” my various sources had temptingly revealed.

Of course, I was keen to visit and check out the action for myself. That opportunity finally materialised in January this year when, along with six other tropical popping and jigging SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 59

enthusiasts, I travelled to the south coast village of Krinda, located just a short distance east of the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka at Matara.

Like most of Sri Lanka’s south and east coast, Krinda was devastated by the 2004 tsunami: tens of thousands of people were killed in the area, 100 000 throughout Sri Lanka. Visit Krinda today and, yes, if you look hard enough you will find evidence of that fateful day, but like me you will also be struck by just how well this coastal community has recovered.

I don’t think I have travelled anywhere in the developing world and found more friendly people, always smiling, never over-hassling tourists, genuinely pleased to welcome visitors to their country.

Even the streets are entirely litter free, always a good barometer of the mood of a nation. By the time we arrived at Krinda Beach Resort, our base

Darius Smukstys boated a fair-size dogtooth tuna whilst jigging — and was given a good run for his money.

for the week, all in our group were enthusing over what a lovely country Sri Lanka is.

BEATING THE MONSOONS Like every other country throughout the vast Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka’s weather is governed by the twin monsoon seasons.

The northeast monsoon typically ends early in January, though this year it was late. Consequently, throughout our trip we were plagued by strong to very strong winds that severely limited where and when we could fish.

Thankfully, Game Fishing Asia, our hosts, operate two fast sportfishing boats, and by getting away first thing in the morning, when the winds were invariably at their lightest, we managed to fish every day.

Located about seven miles south of Krinda harbour stands the Little Basses Lighthouse, warning ships using this busy trade route of the perilous Kuda

Ravana Kotuwa Reef which for some reason the British renamed “Basses Reef”. A sizable reef with a roughly east-west orientation, even on a calm morning the gentlest of ocean swells spill over the many shallow coral heads in a spectacular explosion of foaming white water.

As you drift by, firing your poppers out towards the horizon, you can clearly see the bottom in many places, while elsewhere the seabed falls away into deep, dark blue fissures and canyons, a perfect a location for giant trevally and the other species we would be targeting on our trip.

Within a few casts at the start of our first day’s fishing my surface popper raised an aggressive GT. It smacked the noisily chugging lure hard two or three times before turning away right at the boat. Nico Jamin, our excellent French guide, accused me of not setting the hooks either quickly or hard enough, while I argued the fish had not actually

Ray Jennings was bullied by this 25kg-plus GT in rough conditions before bringing it to the boat for the photo then the release. eaten the lure but had knocked it directly towards me and had not come tight on the line so that I could strike.

Whatever, a missed fish so early in a week-long trip is no big deal, or so I thought.

For the rest of that day the four of us fishing aboard Rampageous, Game Fishing Asia’s largest boat, fished hard, sternly battling it out against ever-growing and increasingly confused seas. By lunchtime it was as much as we could do to stand up, let alone cast, then suddenly towards the end of one drift, within the shadow of the lighthouse, Ray Jennings hooked a good fish on a stickbait.

It was not a pretty fight. Ray is a steady man in a boat, but if standing and casting had been problematic, standing while getting bullied by a bronzeflanked near 25kg-plus slab of GT was all but impossible. Nico had his work

cut out keeping the sportfisher off the rocks, while Ray kept quiet and recovered line as and when he could — with Darren holding onto his belt to keep him in the boat. Just how I managed to shoot images without trashing an expensive Nikon, I really don’t know, but eventually the fish was boated, photographed and released.

Species caught included grouper ...

INTO THE DEEP Conditions on the reef by now were bordering on dangerous, so Nico suggested a move out into deeper water a few miles south where conditions would be more favourable. On arrival the boat’s sounder clearly indicated a good head of fish hanging above the jagged pinnacles of rock and coral 60m beneath us. Sure enough, almost immediately my 250g pink Williamson Benthos jig hooked a strong fish.

As I pumped and pulled away at my fish, the crew watched and played the usual game of “guess the fish”. At first the smart money was riding on a dogtooth tuna, based on the powerful initial runs, while others backed a GT. Finally we got our first glimpses of colour beneath us and a positive ID was made: GT. Not a big GT by any stretch of the imagination, 20kg at best, but it was my first decent fish of the trip and I was happy with it.

The next few days followed a similar pattern. In response to the weather we

... then yellowspot trevally ....

... and even a longnose emperor.

62 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

started sailing earlier each morning, usually slipping out of the harbour around six in the morning. This gave us a relatively calm window of opportunity of three or four hours before the wind inevitably started howling by late morning.

Jigging proved to be the most productive technique, though at times with a 3-4 knot wind-blown drift, this was very hard work. Popping inevitably raised a few fish each time we tried, but soon enough conditions would become too rough for even the largest poppers to be effective.

Yes, it was a tough week, a timely reminder that regardless of where in the world you travel you have no control of the weather. Trip highlights included almost all of our crew boating a GT or two, along with some gloriously coloured bluefin trevally and powerful yellowspot trevally, all of which really test your knot-tying skills to the absolute max. Simon Powell boated not one but two big king mackerel on a surface popper, the best a chrome plated 20kg missile that smashed his lure in a display of unbridled aggression that had to be witnessed to be appreciated.

Darius Smukstys boated a fair dogtooth tuna whilst jigging, and all of us added to a mixed haul of little tunny, snapper, grouper and various reef fish.

They were modest results for sure, especially considering that in the weeks previous to our trip Game Fishing Asia clients had boated numerous GTs and dogtooth tuna to 50kg plus. Take a look at their excellent website and you will see why we are going back.

FACT FILE Krinda is located just a few miles from the famous Yala Game Reserve, and returning to harbour by around 2pm most afternoons meant we had time to enjoy an evening game drive, which was included within our package at Krinda Beach Resort.

Yala boasts an abundance of wildlife, especially leopard, which I saw on each of the three game drives I took.

There are plenty of elephant, deer, wild boar, monkeys and many other species of animal, including the elusive sloth bear, while the birdlife is truly spectacular. The proximity of Yala and the many other general tourist attractions throughout Sri Lanka mean this is the perfect tropical popping and jigging destination for a non-fishing partner.

Depending on the season, fishing is based at various locations throughout the country, including at a recently discovered lagoon offering barramundi, featherbacks, mangrove jack and oxeye tarpon.

For further information visit <www. gamefishingasia.com> or <www.davelewisfishing.com>.

MARKETPLACE

New in the shops

A magnificent wahoo caught on the Spinfisher SSV4500.

Penn unveils Spinfisher V reels — versatile and powerful

P

ENN recently introduced the 5th generation of the ever-popular Spinfisher series of spinning reels. The new Penn Spinfisher V reels are designed to meet the rugged requirements of all anglers tackling big fish. The reels boast six seals which are used to create the new “watertight” design that the Spinfisher V series offers. This design means that you don’t have to worry about saltwater getting into the gearbox or drag system. This prolongs the life of your investment through all the harsh South African fishing conditions.

This full-metal bodied series of reels boasts all the same attributes as its brothers. Firstly, the “Superline Spool” design, which means no backing is needed as the braid can be tied directly

to the spool. Secondly, line capacity rings eliminate the question of how much line you have left when fighting a fish. These rings show the anglers when they are full, one-third down or two-thirds down, giving the angler confidence in a tough battle.

Last, but definitely not least, we get the tough and smooth “Slammer Drag” system. This is a truly sealed drag system with three HT-100 drag washers (one on the top of the spool and two underneath the spool).

The Spinfisher V reels offer up to 12kg drag on the SSV4500 size and 20kg drag on the SSV9500.

Another weapon in this arsenal is the “Liveliner Model” in size 4500 which was designed to meet the requirements of our livebait tigerfishermen and light

tackle boat fisherman. Simply pull back the switch and the front drag disengages and runs off the Liveliner drag. The Liveliner drag is a much lighter drag which lets your livebait swim free.

When the fish takes, simply start cranking the handle and the Liveliner drag disengages, the front drag engages, and you’re tight on your fish.

These reels are very versatile and can be used for all aspects of fishing including tiger, inshore, estuary, jigging, popping/plugging, trolling, drifting and rock and surf. Sizes include 3500, 4500, 4500LL, 5500, 6500, 7500, 8500 and 9500.

If you’re looking for the perfect braid to use on these reels, the new Berkley Trilene Braid uses the highest grade of Dyneema, and has a breakthrough radial construction. This 8carrier, high-pickcount radial braid is ultra-round, ultrasmooth and ultrastrong. Available in 300 yard spools in 20 lb, 30 lb, 40 lb, 50 lb and 80 lb, there is a size to match your Spinfisher V reel.

For more information on these and other Pure Fishing products, ask your nearest tackle dealer, or contact Pure Fishing on 0861 527 336.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 63

64 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

TACKLE TALK HE TLD 25 screamed off as we slow trolled over the Hibberdene pinnacles. The Jap Mack was dressed in a light pink skirt, her trace was all made up with seven-strand wire and the hooks were 4x high heels ... a single and two mean trebles. A deadly bait indeed.

The fish headed out to sea and spooled the TLD 25 — a good fish for sure. The sea was flat for a change and we followed the fish carefully, regaining the 350 odd metres of line.

As soon as we got near, it surfaced, and then it emptied the spool again, into the sun. It did that three times against a light drag, but all that line in the water was nerve-wracking. Eventually, half-anhour or so later, we got a glimpse of the fish in the depths. It went into huge circles, but we gained on it each time, by holding our breaths mainly.

It came closer and closer. Justin, our guest Cape tuna fisherman, eagerly grabbed the gaff. It was his first time fishing Natal waters for ’cuda. I got the fish round one more time, coming by the boat half-a-metre underwater, and in the tense silence Justin let the fish swim straight past us!

I screamed inwardly in pain and anxiety and outwardly at Justin — I couldn’t believe my eyes — and my dad was equally dumbfounded, but the fish came round for the last time and Justin neatly put the gaff through the bottom jaw of the huge ’cuda. I.D.B. tuna-style,

by Sean Lange • photos by Sharene Berry umzimkulu@gmail.com would have been beaten and thrown overboard — missing in action!

Over the years, we have seen crews divided, friendships shattered, marriages tested and partnerships destroyed — at the gaff.

A missed gaff is a terrible thing, something you never want to be remembered for. All the effort that goes into deep sea fishing, the tackle, the thousands of miles, the boat and trailer, the vehicle and the hours, days, months and years of preparation, the money, the time, it’s all for that trophy moment at the gaff. To miss that trophy fish, or that big prize-winning catch, or even the fish to braai for the girls waiting at home, is hell.

T

The author and father Brian off Hibberdene with the big 32kg ’cuda, neatly gaffed in the lip by their guest from the Cape, Justin — yellowfin tuna-style. but it was such a stressful palaver for the rest of us.

Although the story had a happy ending, had Justin missed that fish he

GAFFING 101 Starting with the basics, the safer way to gaff is to gaff upwards, midway into the fish on the surface so that gravity lends a hand — and remember to stay clear of the hooks. This holds true for all surface gaffing situations. Just put the gaff in the water under the fish and heave upwards, towards you. This also turns fish upside down which usually calms them.

The other more cowboy style of gaffing is over the head/body of the fish, or even in the tail. This is generally more difficult as the fish can react and, whilst still in the water, find purchase and swim. Many a man has been pulled over by the lanyard holding him to the gaff. At 15 years old my brother, Marc, was pulled overboard by a 50kg-plus sailfish which my dad had been fighting on 6kg line in a wild sea for two hours during a league competition off Shelly

The turning point of the fight ...

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 65

Home and dry — at the Umzimkulu Marina, Port Shepstone.

Beach. Luckily he got the lanyard off and came back to the surface!

Gaffing a fish when it’s way down deep is risky. The error of parallax gives you the first challenge: aiming is difficult, which leads to the next challenge of being attached to an 80kg yellowfin while it is still submerged in its own environment. Hydrodynamics will tell you how powerful a fish like that is.

A few more pointers: • Gaffing the trace or leader by mistake will get you into deep, deep trouble. Gaff in the middle or tail section of the fish, avoiding the head where the hooks are.

• Try to lift as much of the fish up and out of the water straight away.

• Wear the lanyard at your own risk.

Then for the angler whose responsi-

66 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

bility it is to present the fish to the gaff man appropriately: • Move up and down the gunnel to make space for the gaff man. He needs to be in front of you as you pull the fish close enough to reach.

Work together and move around if the fish changes its pattern. Move away from the gunnel in the final moments to bring the fish closer.

• Present the fish side-on and on the surface wherever possible. Lift your rod high to bring the fish closer.

• When the gaff goes in, back off your drag — but be prepared for an escape attempt.

• • • •

And for the crew on board: Balance the boat.

Clear the decks.

Assist the angler.

Open the hatch as soon as the gaff

goes in, and stay away from the teeth and hooks.

Most boats are equipped with two gaffs, one big one small. Smaller gaffs are much more useful than the bigger ones. Often fish barely fit into the hook bend of bigger gaffs, especially dorado which can be big fish, but are very narrow and are better dealt with by the smaller gaff.

Finally, a point to always keep in mind: make it a habit to always keep your gaff’s point sharp, clean and covered. A cork or rubber tube will prevent the most horrific of injuries from occurring. I have been gaffed in the neck by my brother, I have stood on a gaff while fighting a fish, and I’ve seen a gaff go through a fuel line. I can only imagine how many bad gaff stories there must be out there.

Just be aware that if a gaff can penetrate the shoulder of a fish, it can pierce your skin easily — and then one never knows what bacteria your gaff point holds. SKI-BOAT featured a story last year by Ian Wilmot in which he told how his son, David, nearly lost his life after kicking a bare gaff hook off Cape Vidal (see SKI-BOAT May/June 2013, “A brush with death”).

With this caveat and the pointers I’ve given you, gaffing should become second-nature to you. In a nutshell, concentrate, then be quick, efficient and deliberate. QED.

COMPETITIONS

A

T the southernmost tip of Africa the mixing of the icy north-flowing Benguela and warm southflowing Agulhas currents generates one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. On the surface, however, the interrelated turbulence, strong currents and ever-changing weather conditions give the area a fearful reputation amongst sailors the world over.

Known for its abundant nutrients, baitfish prolifera-

tion and associated top marine predators, these unforgiving waters also boast one of the best marlin fishing theatres in South Africa.

Albeit for a very short period — stretching from mid-January to the end of March each year — the abundance of this soughtafter quarry and the zest of a handful of assiduous sportfishermen, led to the formation of the Two Oceans Marlin Challenge (TOMC).

This prestigious event is

hosted annually by the Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club in Struisbaai.

Based on the 2012 and 2013 results — respectively yielding 47 marlin over 100 boat days and 36 marlin over 120 boat days — it was comprehensible that the 2014 event would in all probability be another marlin feast.

OPTIMISM On 15th July 2013, when Paul van Niekerk’s first letter slotted into my inbox, I could literally feel the thrill

by Johan Smal

of the chase igniting. As time progressed incidental discussions with regulars confirmed that the excitement, tightly intertwined with high levels of expectations, was growing at pace.

The prospects were strengthened by large areas of warm Agulhas water, with temperatures substantially higher than normal, being pushed closer inshore.

Coupled with the good weather and sea conditions experienced since the beginning of December, particu-

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 71

Tony Doult, who took the photos of the killer whales and dolphins aboard Dragon, shared their experience: “It is well documented that killer whales consist of several pod types feeding on different prey, with some preferring dolphin meat. We came across a very large pod of dolphins followed by the killer whales some distance further back.

“When we moved into the area they came straight towards us to investigate. The sea conditions were bad with a strong wind fanning a big sea, but even on the boat they were enormous and their agility incredible. I kept the boat moving, but we were very cautious as a nine-ton fish versus a three-ton boat was not a match in any book.

“One large male rolled onto his back and bared his genitals ... no idea what this meant. The pod consisted of six members, including a mother and a calf ,with all the others recognisable by differences in their markings and shapes.

One had a huge hump on his back, and the big male’s dorsal fin was in excess of 1.5m.” battle without proper leadlarly pleasing to the hordes ers now also enjoys a higher of holidaymakers that freposition on our “not to do quent the area, it looked again” lists! even more promising. The Some other telltales conextraordinary catches of yelsisted of numerous sightings lowtail and tuna in the area of very large bait-balls which — yielding up to 150 tons were teaming with predaand beyond on some days tors. Dolphins, seals, humpand considered as the best back whales, sharks, killer catches in decades — added whales, tuna and many bird to the hype. species were observed banRegular reports of marlin queting on the abundance. thieving yellowtail from In one particular bait-ball commercial anglers’ handthree sharks were pushed lines, supported by several entirely out of the water by other highly credible their tightly squeezedaccounts of promising martogether counterparts frantilin activity in the area, furcally feasting on the opulent ther fuelled the fervour. banquet beneath them.

Wriggling high and dry, the BILLFISH MAKE AN trapped sharks had no APPEARANCE option but to exploit their Out on Osprey, working the predicament by taking snapAlphard Banks the weekend shot bites at airborne baitpreceding the event, we also fish jumping around them. had two noteworthy experiIt was a real feast for the ences. Early morning a sailspectator’s eye, but also the fish frolicked in the spread, possibility of a feeding shark only the second known sightsuffering a life-threatening ing of sailfish in Agulhas injury on duty, I thought. waters. Then whilst on anchor that afternoon — preparing to overnight and A MARLIN FEAST whilst catching some botON THE CARDS? toms for dinner as the sun As the theatrical accounts of was setting — two marlin numerous scenes played out were lost after being hooked over time, all indicators on live mackerel. pointed to the most likely Disappointed with the conclusion: the 2014 event results was an understatewas set for a marlin feast of ment, but the incidents connote. Imaginations ran riot firmed the abundance of billand optimistic human spirits fish in the area. The meanmade the anticipation ing of being unprepared, almost palpable. But it was undergunned and going into not to be!

Avanti’s black marlin prior to release. They had difficulty reviving the fish and noticed that there was a huge skipjack wedged in its throat. Once the blockage had been removed, the marlin quickly recovered and was successfully released.

Our Maker’s plans are far beyond our wildest imagination and this year’s event was ordained to play out in a completely different fashion.

We are reminded that “... there is a time for everything, and a season for everything under the sun, a time to be and a time not to be.

Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account” (Ecclesiastes 3).

D-Day weather forecasts created irritating disquiet amongst the 216 participants as Monday 24th February drew nearer.

Enthusiasm turned into apprehension. At the captains’ briefing on the Sunday night nervous participants had to accept — reluctantly, obviously — that they would have to wait it out until the weather improved. Having to sit around for another three days, some participants decided to rather return to the office, probably — under these dreary circumstances — for some much needed

solace. Most, however reverted to sightseeing excursions, coddled their craft and fine-tuned their gear. Many old friendships were also rekindled at the bar, with the club’s funds benefiting greatly from all the slack time. At the evening functions the happy faces resembled the same expressions seen during previous events, making one believe that the prospect of bad weather completely obliterating the 2014 event was not a concern.

These were, however, masquerades. Beneath these face masks one could clearly see mounting frustration and lingering weariness.

On the Wednesday night the weather committee finally announced the long awaited go-ahead for the challenge to officially commence the next morning. The consequence was an instant step-change in attitude as the euphoria exploded and the spring in anglers’ steps immediately returned. The game was on again.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 73

Second place — Aequus.

Third place — Dragon.

Fourth place — Avanti.

Fifth place — Awesome II.

BEHIND THE SCENES Fishing is not a spectator sport as only final outcomes are usually shared in inner circles, mostly over a frosty.

True accounts of actual experiences are rarely spoken about. To obtain a better appreciation and insight into team secrets — strategies, dynamics and camaraderie, for example — one has to infiltrate the sets behind the scenes.

I therefore opted to spend some time on different boats, those that were prepared to accommodate such a spare-wheel.

Although it did not fully materialise as originally envisaged, I can now share some accounts as they played out on the day.

Due to very unpleasant sea conditions most boats opted to try their luck behind the 12 Mile Bank.

Very few went to the Skipskop area, with the remaining handful — the very brave ones — heading for the Alphard Banks some 42 miles over the horizon.

This track took them straight into the teeth of large swells driven by 15-20 knot easterly winds, causing a very obnoxious, short and sharp cross-chop. Indeed, it was the most uncomfortable sea

experienced during this event in a very long time.

Qwaza’s and Makaira’s (un)pleasant experiences, tolerated in a humorous vein, are related in this issue’s back-page Rapala Lip section.

Avanti’s first black marlin was caught against all odds:The crew aboard Kevin Konkol’s 730 Twister, Avanti, made a remarkable catch with some quite interesting fine-print splashed all over the fish.

“Not fully conversant with the requirements of launching a large craft in Struisbaai at spring low-tide, we managed to damage both the props!” said Kevin. “Very concerned about the damage, we were forced to take the boat out of the water which necessitated huge effort and assistance from another vehicle.

“We removed the props and began to enquire about getting a spare set. Johan van der Walt directed us to a commercial fisherman, Andre Waggener, alias Waggies, who piped up and confidently pronounced:‘Ek kan hulle regkap tot 99 persent.’

“Within an hour the props were repaired and more than ready for use.

Kindly, Andre also advised us that due to the prevailing weather conditions, the marlin would be feeding three to four nautical miles south of the 12 Mile Bank.

“We had trolled for approximately two-and-a-half hours when we had the strike, a double-header, with two rods screaming in unison and both losing line at pace.

We were elated about our sudden success — music to our ears! However, due to the ferocity of the strike, the other rod’s line had become entangled with the strike rod’s line.

“Abruptly, this realisation turned the exciting double strike into a more controllable single-header. Gerhard du Toit took the honours of reeling in the fish, and almost an hour later the marlin was alongside the boat.

It took off again and we could not believe our growing misfortune as the line became entangled in the motors!

“Melt Loubser, the leader linesman, ripped off his shirt and jumped into the water to free the line. Despite this perhaps not very clever thing to do in shark-invested waters, he managed to free the line and jumped back on board.

Sixth place — Salti.

“We were very relieved and soon got the marlin alongside the boat, removed the hook and prepared ourselves for a textbook release ... but yet another setback.

We had difficulty reviving the fish and noticed that there was a huge skipjack wedged in its throat. We were able to remove the blockage, after which the marlin hastily recovered and took off splendidly after having been released, fortunately not dying on us.

“During the confusion, knowing that it was not a stripey, we were unable to identify it as a blue or black.

After reporting our catch together with the required evidence, we were thrilled to learn that, despite all the setbacks of the morning, we had managed to land our very first black marlin at Struisbaai, a beauty estimated at around 150kg.

“To crown everything, the fish secured us fourth place in the competition.

Makaira was the top boat of the 2014 Two Oceans Marlin Challenge with three stripeys, all caught at the Alphard Banks.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 75

Avanti’s team received the prize for best dressed pirates, while Mike Riley’s men aboard Catitude were the best dressed team. Singer virtuoso Ted Horne is in the centre.

Makaira’s skipper and owner, Mike Broderick, first mate John Paulsen and Johan Smal (behind) received the trophy on behalf of the 2014 winners. Not present were other team members Shawn Thompson, John Blignaut, Danie Kotze and Andre Veldsman. numerous sharks jumping What a fantastic day of fishon the baits, some boats losing and one which we all ing up to four lures in the cannot wait to repeat again!” process.

Kevin concluded.

“Friday 28th February, coincided with our tax yearFINAL RESULTS end — perhaps the marlin Despite the inclement were busy completing their weather on the Thursday, returns,” was the most fitting nine marlin were boated and explanation given by Paul released consisting of four van Niekerk. stripeys and five blacks, Final results showed indeed the highest number Mike Broderick’s Makaira in of blacks ever to be recordfirst position with three ed in the history of the stripeys, all caught at the event.

Alphard Banks. Second Due to a threatening place went to Hannes strong westerly, Friday saw Wolfaardt’s Aequus with two lines-up at 2pm, but strangefish, a black and a stripey also ly without producing any taken at the Alphard Banks. marlin landings. At least Tony Doult’s Dragon some fun was had with achieved third position with a black marlin, boated near Skipskop, the first marlin to be caught in that area and earning them some bonus points.

Mike Konkol’s Avanti, Constant Marais’ Awesome II and Paul van Niekerk’s Salti each boated a black, all in the 12 Mile Bank area.

76 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

CLOSEOUTS On Friday night the club was packed to the rafters with jubilant anglers and guests, once again proving that the pirate party is an event highlight and an absolute winner. Johan van der Walt, alias “Groot Harder”, and his hard-working ladies had their hands full getting the doors closed in the early hours of the next morning.

At the prize-giving on the Saturday night Ted Horn opened the proceedings with an expert solo performance by entertaining the crowd with the pleasing sounds of the famous folk song,“When you and I were young, Maggie”. Ted was part of Mike Riley’s crew on Catitude who received recognition as the best dressed team, but it cost Mike a fine for bringing the lure manufacturer along.

Jonathan Peach, who enthusiastically identified some seals which turned out to be gannets, also had to fork out some hard-earned cash. So did Jacques van Niekerk for dismounting off the front of the boat and landing in the cold, green wet stuff, forcing an unexpected soft rescue.

CONCLUSION Hearty congratulations and sincere thanks must go to all. Once again we experienced the wonderful hospitality of the small organising team consisting of Paul van Niekerk at the helm, Dr Gawie Bruwer, from whom Paul took over, and ou Groot Harder, Johan van der Walt.

Well known as the most obliging, hardworking cornerstone with the distinction of

always satisfying his customers, Johan deserves a special accolade for the noteworthy contributions he’s made over many years.

Being familiar with the mountain of tasks this trio had to chip away in order to successfully host such a significant and enjoyable event, one must make special mention of their dedication and diligence, but especially the long hours they spent behind the scenes.

Then there is also the generosity of the sponsors, the loyalty of the participants and — most importantly — the unselfish input of the support staff who also worked very long hours behind the scenes.

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all for making this year’s event such a resounding success — despite the weather. It’s a well known fact that events like these simply cannot exist without sponsors and donors, and even small contributions are always welcome,” said Paul.

“I would like to put out a challenge to everyone: let’s make the 2015 event something really special. After all, it’s your event and we need everyone’s support, especially with donations towards the Positioning Satellite Archival Tag (PSAT) project we have on the cards for 2015. We really have to learn more about marlin movement in our area.

“We therefore need to have state-of-the-art technology at our disposal to achieve this successfully.

“We’re looking forward to seeing you again next year!”

Paul concluded.

MY FIRST ’CUDA

by Bryn Brokensha (8)

I

T was Mother’s Day and my dad had promised to take us fishing in the kid’s competition in Durban. My brother Ross and cousin Scott and his dad joined us. We left Pietermaritzburg very early — at 3.45am — so we had to be in bed early the night before. When we got to Durban it was still dark. We lauched my dad’s boat, Brokie, and went to catch our livebait.

We started fishing at the containers but didn’t have much luck and my dad was getting frustrated because he said there were too many boats there. He decided we should up-lines and move somewhere else. We moved to the Umhlanga barge and had lots of fun there because there were lots of baitfish around. We caught mackerel, shad and maasbankers, and my cousin caught a nice little bonnie.

My dad said that we had plenty of good bait by then and should go and fish at Umdloti. When we got there Dad helped us set up the rods and said he had a good feeling about today. It wasn’t long before the rod with the bonnie on it screamed away. Dad gave the rod to Scott because he’d caught the bonnie. When he eventually reeled it in we saw Scott had caught a lovely big 24kg ’cuda. We were all very excited, and also worried because I hadn’t yet caught my first ’cuda. When we were on holiday in January at Cape Vidal I fished with my dad and all my ’cuda were eaten by sharks and dolphins, so I was hoping for better luck.

A few minutes later my brother Ross got a 9kg ’cuda, but I still had nothing. My dad said that now all five rods on the boat were mine and we carried on trolling. A while later a rod screamed off and it was time for me to have a go at landing a fish. My dad helped me a little bit by making me sit between his legs and telling me what to do. After about seven minutes, with very sore arms, I had my first ’cuda at the boat. My dad gaffed it for me and put it in the hatch — I couldn’t stop looking at it for the rest of the morning.

I caught another ’cuda later on and we ended up with seven ’cuda all together. My cousin Scott won the competition with his big fish, I came fifth and my brother Ross came eighth. It was the best day ever!

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E-Zine Subscriptions (Electronic Format): www.zinio.com/SkiBoat SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 79

Geoffrey Wanvig, SADSAA President

I

T has come to my attention that there are many vindictive, false statements being made by some of our affiliate members wherein they state that the updating of SADSAA’s Constitution has already taken place — illegally. This is a blatant lie. For this reason I must allay any fears that our members may have and explain why, how and when this will take place.

WHY: SASACC recently had to rewrite their constitution so that they’re not in conflict with SASCOC. SASACC’s new constitution has now been passed and adopted. As a result thereof, SASACC issued instructions to all of their angling federations, of which SADSAA is one, that before 2015 all of the federations’ constitutions must be brought in line with that of SASACC’s with no conflicts appearing therein.

If this is not done, the respective federations that do not comply will no

longer be eligible for Protea colours, nor for any financial support/sponsorship from SASCOC, SASACC, Sport Councils or Lotto, until such time as they do comply. For the sake of our anglers, SADSAA cannot allow this to happen and we immediately embarked on an action plan to meet the required deadline.

HOW: SADSAA co-opted one of the committee members who is a qualified attorney to draft whatever required changes might be needed in our constitution. This first draft was circulated to all council members for their input and was scheduled for discussion at the February council meeting where a second draft would be created for circulation to the respective SADSAA provincial associations. The provinces would then forward the draft on to their respective member clubs for further input.

Their responses were to have been

returned to our co-opted representative by 31st May 2014 for a third draft to be presented and discussed at our June 2014 meeting.

To accommodate SASACC’s extensive requirements our constitution will have to be handled as an entirely new constitution from beginning to end, adopting the use of the required clauses from the SASACC constitution. It was also found that there were some clauses in our existing constitution which need to be improved, to meet improved future administration requirements within SADSAAA. WHEN: We propose to have the new constitution accepted and adopted at the June council meeting. If there is no consensus after the discussions have taken place, it will have to be finalised no later than our October 2014 council meeting for us to be on track for the 2015 deadline.

SADSAA CONTACTS: Office phone: (012) 996-9007 • Website: www.sadsaa.com

FEATURE

by Gary Thompson

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lucky enough to have a superb view like this itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a pleasure to sit on the patio and watch your fish fillets as they dry in the wind.

Dish up your own delicious smoked fish

C

OLD-smoking and hot-smoking are two different methods for preserving fish. The more common method of smoking fish is hot-smoking.

When hot-smoking, the fish is enclosed in a container with added heat which ignites the aromatic wood shavings. The heat will cook the fish while the smoke penetrates the meat, infusing it with the smoky flavour.

Cold-smoking, as the name implies, is where the meat is cured using cold smoke which results in a far more scented and favourable smoky taste.

The difficulty of this method is to get the smoke into the smoking chamber in a cold state, without cooking the fish with heat. Typically, the smoke is generated in a separate compartment and is led into the smoking chamber through

a long pipe which cools the smoke.

The problem with this method of smoking is that it typically requires a specialised smoking room and large quantities of fish to be smoked at the same time.

The solution to the challenge of getting cold smoke into a small chamber

was discovered over a beer at the Atlantic Boat Club in Hout Bay. There Detlef Klein shared the Namibian coldsmoke method with me. All you need is an old 400g jam tin with two little holes, the diameter of a pencil, punched near the bottom sides of the can. Then, while braaing, take three or four coals

All you need to create the smoke: an old jam tin, a few hot coals and some woodchips.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 83

Before and after: The pink tuna fillets soaking in brine (left) and then a beautiful brown after being cold-smoked (right). from the braai fire and put these into the can. Then cover the coals in the can with about a centimetre of wood shavings.

Place this smoking can into your smoke chamber. The coals will not be hot enough to warm-smoke the fish, but will fill the chamber with a dense, flavourful, aromatic smoke. No more large, messy smoke rooms with distant fires and long pipes running to the chamber ...

Since cold-smoking does not have the heat to cook the fish, it is necessary for the fish to be salted or brined before being cold-smoked. The basic brine is about a handful of coarse salt and a handful of brown sugar dissolved in about 1,5 litres of cold water. If you are brave and like to experiment, you can add other ingredients like soya sauce to the brine to add different flavours to your smoked fish.

The fish fillets are left in the brine

for at least one hour and up to three hours, after which they are drained and left to wind-dry. It is recommended that you wind-dry the fish in a shady area using your cleaned open braai grid.

The fish needs to dry until it becomes slightly sticky to the finger when touched.

At this stage you can slightly spice the fish, the emphasis being on â&#x20AC;&#x153;slightlyâ&#x20AC;?, because cold-smoked fish is more salty than normal. A light chilli spice or

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 85

Delicious fish biltong waiting to be sliced and enjoyed. ground paprika is a good choice and here you can use your imagination.

One can also spice the pieces differently to make the cooking experience more interesting. My favourite is to take some fresh dill from the garden and wrap this around the fish before putting it into the smoking chamber.

The fish fillets should not be too thick or too big — ideally they should be around ten to fifteen centimetres long, five centimetres wide and two centimetres thick.

It is strongly recommended that you remove any of the reddish blood line from the fillets as this tends to go black when smoked and does not look all that appetising. The oilier the fish the better it tends to smoke. Also make sure that the fillets are trimmed ver y nicely because the loose ends tend to curl up in the brine, resulting in a fluffy looking smoked fish that also retains brine and does not dry evenly.

Once the fish has been cut into nice fillets, has been in the brine for at least an hour and has been wind-dried, it is ready for the chamber. My favourite is an old oven with three or four racks and with all escape holes sealed. You can also use an old army trommel, army “stal kas” or even an old wine barrel.

Just make sure that the fish is not too close to the smoking can and that the fish pieces are not touching each other.

Place the fish on racks in the chamber, put the can with coals and wood shavings in the centre of your chamber and close the door, allowing the smoke to billow away.

Leave the can in the chamber until all the smoke subsides, which could take up to two or three hours, depending on the size of the chamber, the airtightness of the chamber, the amount of free oxygen until the coals suffocate, 86 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

the heat of the coals and the amount of wood shavings used.

Once the smoke has subsided completely, open the chamber and reload the can with coals and shavings and repeat the smoking process. This process is repeated at least three times and sometimes for more than a day.

Again, the size of the chamber, the size of the fillets and the amount of fish will dictate the number of times the process needs to be repeated.

The most important factor to remember when cold-smoking compared to warm-smoking is that hotsmoked fish is cooked and is generally safe as is, while cold-smoked fish may be at risk of contamination and hence should be kept refrigerated or vacuumsealed to ensure that your final product stays edible. Although the brine and smoke kill most bacteria, caution is recommended.

The cold-smoked fish can be used on sandwiches, in a salad, and just as is, or with a little mayonnaise. The options are endless, just use your imagination.

FISH BILTONG The other alternative is to make fish biltong. The same procedure is followed: cut the fish fillets, place them in the salt and sugar brine, wind-dry and spice lightly. Then hang the fish fillets in one of the home model biltong makers. I find it is better not to use a light bulb in the dryer which is normally used to make meat biltong.

Also, do not dry the fish too much, rather remove it from the dryer when the fillet is fairly firm but slightly soft in the centre. I normally use the tail-ends of the fish which have more sinews, especially the tail-end pieces of tuna fillets which make perfect, delicious fish biltong.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 â&#x20AC;¢ 87

INFORMATION

iSIMANGALISO MOVES TOWARD FULL CATCH-AND-RELEASE Old rules to be enforced, new ones introduced ISIMANGALISO, the management authority at iSimangaliso Wetland Park, incorporating Kosi Bay, Sodwana Bay, St Lucia, Cape Vidal and Maphelane recently issued a press release detailing their future plans for fishing in the waters under their care. We have reproduced it here for the benefit of anglers who fish at those venues.

B

OAT fishing in iSimangaliso is split into billfishing, gamefishing, bottomfishing and spearfishing at itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four official launch sites: Maphelane (maximum 40 launches per day of which no more than three may be personal watercraft); St Lucia (maximum 40 launches per day of which no more than five may be personal watercraft); Cape Vidal (maximum 40 launches per day of which no more than four may be personal watercraft); and Sodwana Bay (maximum 100 launches per day of which no more than five may be personal watercraft).

Various legislation exists around fishing, including the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998 & Regulations and the World Heritage Convention Act & Regulations. As the managing authority, iSimangaliso also adds internal park rules as required, including: 1. Banning of vertical jigging (rule no 3/2009).

2. Regulation of personal watercraft (rule no 1/2012).

3. Prohibition on killing bottomfish (rule no 6/2011).

The last rule above, initially delayed in implementation, will be rigorously enforced from 1st May 2014.

Going forward the park also intends to pass a ruling in respect of gamefish which include billfish and kingfish, dorado, etc. Ultimately the park will become a tag-and-release destination in line with global best practice. Time frames have not been set for this.

Sodwana Bay is not only a renowned scuba diving destination, it is also one of the busiest launch sites in the southern hemisphere and a very popular destination for deep sea fishing.

The coastline of the world heritage site has always been incredibly popular with anglers from all over the world, including commercial boats venturing into our waters from other parts of the world, and there has been a heavy price to pay. As international fish stocks decline and, in some cases, overfishing has reached critical levels, conservation bodies have taken cognisance of the need to address the issue before it is too late. If we are to ensure that future generations of park users, as well as marine species, are able to experience a similar environment to the current one, strict measures must be applied and adhered to.

88 â&#x20AC;˘ SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

from iSimangaliso PR PERMIT SYSTEM Numerous fishing clubs have enjoyed the bounty of the warm Indian Ocean, and indeed some of them have been hosting their competitions at the park for decades. Of these, some 20 events per year are large, boat-based events, with the remainder being shore-based. All competitions held in the park are now run only on a catch-and-release basis.

In recent years the park authority has implemented control measures to manage and streamline the activities of the largest groups. Competitions such as the Myn-Manne, Billfish 15 000, OET and Nationals — all longstanding and significant — have been in the permit system since 2012. iSimangaliso Tourism Operations Manager Sizo Sibiya says there has been remarkable progress with compliance since iSimangaliso started working with fishing competition organisers. “In the first phase, we began issuing permits to the four biggest competitions mentioned above. Going forward we intend to issue the same conditions to all competitions taking place inside the park, irrespective of their size. We have found that most anglers understand and support the importance of long-term conservation of our resources and are more than willing to comply.”

Participating anglers currently contribute R20 per angler to the iSimangaliso Rare and Endangered Species Fund (RESF) where every single cent raised in this way is injected directly into conservation for these species, resulting in very visible and tangible benefits.

In 2013 this money was put towards the following projects: the introduction of 15 oribi into the 66 000ha Ozabeni section of iSimangaliso (12 of which were fitted with tracking collars), the purchase of four lion satellite collars for the newly introduced population into iSimangaliso’s uMkhuze section, and rhino foot collars and horn transmitters. Since implementation of the fishing permit system last year, about R20 620 has been donated by anglers to the RESF, part of the overall R239 590 raised to date. iSimangaliso CEO Andrew Zaloumis thanked the fishing fraternity for the part they played in this fund raising effort, noting that “anglers form a huge and important sector of the visitor base within iSimangaliso, and it is greatly encouraging to see the positive approach taken by competition organisers in adapting to the new permit system, as well as their significant contributions to the park’s fund”.

For more information visit <www.isimangaliso.com>.

Standard minimum regulations regarding fishing competitions in iSimangaliso 1. All anglers must have in their possession valid fishing licences and iSimangaliso entrance permits.

2. No angling in sanctuaries or closed areas, including Two Mile Reef.

3. Participants must comply with all legislation and park rules.

4. All sharks and rays are to be returned alive to the water.

5. No structures and/or fires are to be erected or lit outside designated areas and no boats are to be left on the beach.

6. Anglers are open to inspection by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife during and after the competition.

7. Turtles may not be approached or interfered with in any way and the use of lights/torches is to be minimised (and preferably with red filters) particularly during turtle breeding (October – March).

8. All fish (even dead ones) are to be released after measurement in league shore fishing competitions.

9. No gaffs or stainless-steel hooks are allowed; slide bait hooks must be squashed in league shore fishing competitions.

10. Accommodation used within the park must be at legitimate/authorised facilities.

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 89

MARKETPLACE

LOWRANCE LAUNCHES ELITE CHIRP SERIES

E

XCITING news from Lowrance is the launch of the next-generation of Elite fishfinder/chartplotters, the Elite-7 and Elite-5 CHIRP series. Setting the standard for cutting-edge performance and easy-touse fishfinding, the new, affordable series adds CHIRP sonar to its awardwinning, built-in Broadband Sounder and DownScan Imaging fishfinder technologies. Providing anglers with the best possible view of the water column, CHIRP sonar produces greater sensitivity, improved target resolution and superior noise rejection for clearer, easy-tosee baitfish and gamefish targets.

The Elite CHIRP lineup includes 5inch and widescreen 7-inch fishfinder/chartplotter models as well as standalone fishfinders with CHIRP sonar performance using affordable Lowrance HDI Skimmer transducer options — including the capabilities to produce low, medium and high CHIRP sonar ranges and display two userselected ranges simultaneously. With these CHIRP sonar advantages, the new Elite series can more easily distinguish between baitfish and gamefish targets, provide better target separation at greater depths and mark fish clearly at faster boat speeds.

Elite CHIRP models also feature DownScan Imaging that provides easyto-understand, picture-like views of structure and bottom detail, as well as selectable, single-frequency Broadband Sounder capability.

With the exclusive Lowrance DownScan Overlay feature, boaters can layer DownScan Imaging views onto CHIRP sonar or Broadband Sounder displays for a stunning presentation that separates and clearly exposes fish targets from surrounding structure. To maximise fishing time on the water, Lowrance’s exclusive Advanced Signal 90 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

Processing (ASP) reduces the need to manually adjust settings to see fish, structure and bottom detail more clearly; and TrackBack allows anglers to scroll back in recorded sonar history to review structure, transitions and fish targets. When used on Elite CHIRP fishfinder/chartplotter models, users can also TrackBack and pinpoint locations with a waypoint — reducing the time required to search for productive fishing areas.

“The Elite CHIRP series includes all the proven, high-performance features found in the highly successful Lowrance Elite Hybrid Dual Imaging (HDI) line and adds powerful CHIRP sonar technology for an even better view beneath your boat,” said Leif Ottosson, CEO of Navico. “Packed with three proven sonar technologies at an affordable price, the new Elite CHIRP series continues our commitment to provide real benefits for anglers — helping them catch more fish and make the most of their time on the water.”

Model options include Elite CHIRP displays packed with an 83/200/ 455/800kHz or 50/200/455/800kHz Hybrid Dual Imaging (HDI) transducer with depth capabilities to 1 000 and 3 000 feet, respectively. Optional accessories include a series of bronze thruhull HDI transducers, a trolling-motor transducer adapter kit and flush-mount kit. The Elite-7 CHIRP, featuring NMEA 2000 capability, can also be paired with the Lowrance Point-1 external GPS antenna with built-in electronics compass, while the Elite-5 CHIRP, with NMEA 0183 connectivity, is compatible with the LGC-16W external GPS antenna.

For further information or to find your nearest dealer, phone Lowrance SA on (031) 368-6649, email <sales@ lowrance.co.za or visit their website <www.lowrance.co.za>.

MARKETPLACE

Advertorial

Only the best is good enough for your boat — and Vetus has it

V

ETUS V-Quipment is an exciting new range of boating accessories which are backed by the original creators of pleasure boating.

When Vetus started in 1964, everything took time — meals were cooked with love and care, and mail was still sent in an envelope.

Even boats were made by hand and boating equipment was the next big thing. If you wanted to go faster, you didn’t build lighter,

92 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

you added horsepower — and probably a few cylinders too.

Boating gear was good back then, so good, in fact, that lots of the original Vetus gear is still being made today!

Then in 2012 Vetus launched V-Quipment. It’s a range of Vetus gear aimed at the end-user, but it’s now a whole lot better than before.

The idea behind V-Quipment is simple: boats are part of our lifestyle.

It’s important that your boat looks good, and unless your boat’s varnished, your car’s got wings, or you wear a safari-suit, choosing V-Quipment means fitting good-looking gear at competitive prices. Just like all our quality equipment, it’s backed worldwide by the Vetus 3-year warranty.

Talk to your local dealer about getting you some V-Quipment, and the latest Vetus catalogue. For further information contact Neil on 082 781 7578, phone Nathan on (021) 552-4275 or visit <www.vetus.com>.

Homemade Tuna Pie

by Bianca Theunissen

INGREDIENTS — PASTRY 250ml flour 60g margarine Iced lemon water (enough to just bind dough) INGREDIENTS — FILLING White sauce: 125ml milk 15ml flour 12.5ml margarine 700g fillet of fresh tuna (cooked) 1 potato (cooked & cubed) 10ml chopped parsley 1 tsp fish spice 1 sprig of fresh thyme egg for glazing METHOD FOR PASTRY 1. Rub the margarine into the flour until it resembles bread crumbs.

2. Add iced lemon water tablespoon by tablespoon while using a knife to fold it into the dough. It should clean the edges of the bowl but not be sticky to the touch.

3. Refrigerate until needed.

METHOD FOR FILLING 1. Cook fish and flake it.

2. Cook potato (in microwave ±4 minutes), peel and cube.

3. Make white sauce: Melt margarine in small saucepan. Once margarine is melted, stir in the flour until you can’t see any flour at all. Remove from heat. Slowly, bit by bit, stir in milk until paste is smooth. Return to heat and stir until thick.

4. Place fish,potato and spices all into white sauce.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER 1. Preheat oven to 200°C. 2. Roll out pastry into a square.

3. Transfer onto a greased baking tray.

4. Place fish mixture in the centre. Fold up corners of pastry and press edges closed using a fork.

5. Cut pastry leaves/shapes from the leftover pastry.

6. Glaze with egg and bake for 20-30 mins in a 200°C oven.

7. Garnish and serve.

MARKETPLACE

YAMAHA AND PENNINGTON — A WINNING COMBINATION

N

ATAL Caravans and Marine, together with Yamaha Distributors, once again sponsored the annual Pennington SkiBoat Club competition. This relationship goes back at least 20 years with good support for Yamaha and the dealership from this fishing fraternity.

Pictured above are Greg Bennet,GM of Yamaha Marine division, who congratulated Rob Gemmel, the winner of the event, as he took possession of the prize of his choice — a Yamaha XTZ125 motorcycle. Bill Harrison, sales manager at Natal Caravans and Marine, looks on.

SUPERIOR AUTOPILOT PERFORMANCE FROM RAYMARINE

R

AYMARINE is pleased to announce the addition of new Hydro-Balance technology to its multiple award-winning Evolution autopilot line. This new technology brings an even higher level of autopilot steering performance to boats with hydraulic steering systems. Specifically designed for hydraulic steering systems which have no rudder reference fitted, Hydro-Balance is particularly effective on boats with outboard engines.

Evolution Hydro-Balance technology adapts to your boat’s steering system and actively compensates for hydraulic system elasticity caused by air bubbles trapped in the steering system, flex in hose and piping, and variable valve performance. Elasticity is a variable factor that can degrade autopilot performance over time.

Experienced skippers instinctively feel and compensate for system elasticity when steering by hand, but an autopilot needs to learn how to detect and compensate for it when it is in control of the boat. Until now, conventional marine autopilots without rudder angle sensors were unable to detect this condition.

Left unchecked, an autopilot steering a boat with excessive steering system elasticity will show symptoms of hunting and oscillation, the boat’s heading may swing through a few degrees or the outboard motors may hunt as the pilot struggles to keep the boat on course.

With autopilot hunting, the pilot drives the outboards back and forth over a few degrees, trying to sense why the boat’s heading is falling off. Often it’s just not possible to correct the condition as conventional autopilot systems do not have the precision heading reference or smart sensor built-in to exclude hydraulic system elasticity.

Raymarine’s Evolution autopilots with Hydro-Balance technology adjust for elasticity in the system and compensate automatically to prevent steering oscillation. Under autopilot control, the result is precise course-keeping and no drive-unit hunting.

Another common issue with high-powered outboard engine vessels is asymmetrical torque steer, commonly known as “prop walk”.

Essentially, the torque of the turning propellers creates a minor side-force that acts like a tyre gripping the road. In addition to propelling the boat forward or aft, the side force causes the boat’s bow to veer off to port or starboard — depending on the direction of rotation of the propellers. Asymmetry also causes boats to turn more tightly in one direction than the other.

At low autopilot speeds, asymmetry can impact the natural motion of baits and jigs while trolling. During rapid acceleration, asymmetry can cause the boat’s heading to pull to one side even though the helm is straight.

Hydro-Balance technology detects asymmetry and then teaches the Evolution autopilot to eliminate it through smart adaptive algorithms.

The result is straight-as-an-arrow course keeping at all speeds.

Best of all, it’s easy to add Hydro-Balance technology to any existing Evolution autopilot system via a simple software upgrade.

For more information on these and other Raymarine products, contact MDM Marine Services on (021) 671-6751 or email them at <info@mdmservices.co.za>.

PURE FISHING BUYS CUTTING EDGE LURES

P

URE Fishing Inc., a leading global provider of fishing tackle, announced in March that it has acquired substantially all of the assets of the Cutting Edge Lures business, an Australian provider of tropical and freshwater fishing lures marketed under the Rob Gaden brand name.

“We are excited to add Cutting Edge Lures to our offering, as they provide a strong complement to our current product lines,” commented Phillip Coles, Managing Director of Pure Fishing, Australia. “Cutting Edge Lures’ innovative products and strong design capabilities, paired with our global distribution network, create a compelling combination. We look forward to working with Robert Gaden to ensure that Pure Fishing stays at the forefront of delivering innovation to anglers around the globe.”

Cutting Edge Lures is a provider of hardbodied fishing lures. Products are designed for all predator species catering to tropical and freshwater needs. For more information on these and other Pure Fishing products speak to your local tackle dealer or contact Pure Fishing on (011) 023-5100.

Items of interest

CORROSION BLOCK TAKES NAMIBIA BY STORM

T

HE groundbreaking anti-corrosion formula, Corrosion Block, which has been making news in the South African marine industry since its launch in 2013, has branched out into the Namibian market.

After conducting tests with Corrosion Block and comparing the results to a few other products, Duneworx Motors in Swakopmund (pictured above) have eagerly requested and become the authorised dealers of Corrosion Block and ACF-50 — the aviation and motorcycle counterpart of Corrosion Block — in Namibia.

Since the beginning of 2014, Duneworx Motors have been promoting Corrosion Block in the marine, mining and industrial sectors of Namibia and the products are growing in popularity, not only among the corporate clients, but also among the general public who have seen the results when using the products as part of their preventative maintenance schedule.

Yamaha Skeleton Coast Marine Services have also joined the group of Corrosion Block distribution outlets in Namibia and will help you keep your marine vessels, equipment and fishing tackle looking good and free of corrosion, so that you can have a hassle-free day out on the ocean.

Visit <www.corrosionblock.co.za> to read more about this remarkable range of products and to see the growing list of stores already stocking it. To become a stockist of Corrosion Block, contact Henri Alant (South Africa) on 072 684 6983, or email <sales@corrosionblock.co.za>. To become a stockist in Namibia, contact Mario Prinsloo on +264 64 40 10 81 or email <info@duneworx.com>.

BOOST YOUR CATCH OF THE DAY

T

HE Furuno NavNet TZtouch sets the benchmark for innovation in integrated marine electronics. Utilising a revolutionary multi-touch interface, NavNet TZTouch provides you with fast, intuitive control of the entire system, fulfilling virtually every desire you may have for a navigation system.

The Furuno DFF1, DFF3, BBDS1 and DFF1UHD can turn any NavNet TZtouch display into a powerful, dual frequency fishfinder with the most advanced features such as Accu-Fish, Bottom Discrimination Sounder, Furuno Digital Filter and TruEcho Chirp technology.

Furuno Digital Filter (FDF) fishfinders feature advanced filtering capabilities and digital auto tuning, which eliminates noise while delivering the ability to spot individual fish with clarity, accuracy and detail. Whether they

SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 97

are used in shallow or deep water, FDF fishfinders give you what you would expect from a fishfinder at all times.

Designed to operate over a broadband range of frequencies utilising a broadband transducer, the TruEcho CHIRP fishfinder DFF1UHD delivers significant advancements in signal clarity and target definition. The clear presentation of the sounder marks individual gamefish and baitfish, even when tightly schooled together.

Furuno’s award winning Network fishfinders offer a unique fish size analyser function — Accu-Fish. The Accu-Fish algorithm analyses echo returns to compute individual fish size and display it on the screen.

Utilising input from the Network fishfinders BBDS1 or DFF1-UHD, the bottom discrimination display will be shown in the following four categories: rocks, gravel, sand and mud, either in dedicated graphics or colours with corresponding probability. This information is helpful in spotting rich fishing grounds where you can boost your catch of the day.

If you have Maxsea software you will also be able to import weather and tidal information. With the award-winning TimeZero technology, the complete package of all the charts you would need worldwide is also now also at your fingertips.

For more information on these products or to locate a dealer near you, please contact Imtech Marine South Africa on 0861 123 555 or email <info.za@imtechmarine.com>.

LOWRANCE INCREASES MARKET SHARE

E

FLAGS ALOFT

I

F you need marlin release flags for your boat consider buying this set of six from Tig Andrin at a cost of R250 per set.

For further information contact Tig or Alta Andrin on (032) 947-2044, email <tig@oceantrading.co.za> or visit their website <www.ocean-trading.co.za>.

RIVIERA 33 HITS THE TUNA GROUNDS LWAYS ready to jump at the opportunity to go fishing, Boating World’s Greg Alice (pictured below, left) was first in the queue to join a tuna expedition with one of his clients on a beautiful Riviera 33 sportfishers. Reports of good catches off The Canyons spurred the party of five into action and the race was on to get out there as soon as possible. The weekend was just too far away, so Riviera 33 owner, Ismail Bhorat, along with Chris “Bos” Gerber, Mario Oberhozer, Sherwin Liang and Greg left Gordon’s Bay at first light on a clear Wednesday morning.

All eyes were peeled as they edged closer to the 40-mile offshore mark, scanning the horizon for signs of telltale bird-life. A couple of Rapala lures were thrown out and the reels were soon screaming in a double-up and Greg and Sherwin lost no time in landing two small longfin tuna.

When they arrived at their destination the Riviera crew focused on chumming, and with three baits in the calm blue waters it was not long before they got a pickup.

As it was Sherwin’s first time tuna fishing he was given control of the first rod. Strapping on a bucket, the enthusiastic “teachers” talked him through fighting a fish. After a 15 minute battle with nerves, excitement, muscle fatigue and tears of pain and laughter, they decided to reward him with a Black Magic harness to help him out. Just seven minutes later he was absolutely delighted to land a respectable tuna of around 50kg.

After the fish was safely boated they continued chumming and quickly got their baits back into the water. It didn’t take long before the Shimano Tiagra 50 started screaming again. This time it was Greg’s turn next and he caught another tuna around the same size as Sherwin’s one.

Ismail then showed them all how it’s done and hooked and landed his tuna within ten minutes.

There’s no doubt that many hours spent enjoying his favourite pastime on his sportfisher have paid off.

Mario was up next, followed by skipper Chris. A total of nine big yellowfin tuna were successfully landed, despite some blue sharks following the chum line and stealing a couple of baits.

In between the frenzy of activity, the anglers took time out to enjoy the food and refreshments to keep energy levels at a premium. The luxurious but fishingpractical Riviera 33 proved once again that she’s the perfect craft for a long day on the water, with loads of power, comfort and fuel capacity which allows easy travel for longer distances offshore.

After the great day’s fishing the group headed back to the marina at Gordon’s Bay where Riviera’s IPS (Inboard Performance System) with joystick precision control was put to good use, making for painless docking. IPS has been recorded to be up to 30% more fuel efficient. Other benefits of IPS are that there are no diesel fumes emitted above the water and the engines are able to be pushed further aft, allowing for more space in the cabins and a quiet and comfortable ride for everyone aboard.

For further information on Riviera craft contact the South African agents, Boating World, on 0861 324 754, email <info@boatingworld.co.za> or visit <www.boatingworld.co.za>.

A

98 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

LECTRONICS giant Navico is rapidly gaining market share as exciting new trends and products continue to surprise and attract anglers around the world. Breakthrough technology and the introduction of more innovative products every year have pushed sales figures further up the global ladder, giving the company a growing lead over competitors.

Speaking at Lowrance SA’s dealer evenings held in Cape Town and Durban recently, Simon Claxton, International Sales Director for Navico EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa), reported a first quarter growth of 8.2% for 2014 compared to the same period last year.

This upward movement in sales shows that Navico is clearly doing everything right and the proof is in the figures which also reflect a 4.2% lead over the competition since September 2011. This comes on the back of the news late last year that Lowrance (Navico’s top brand), has overtaken Garmin as the world’s largest electronics manufacturer in the leisure market and is firmly positioned as the Number One electronics fishing brand. Navico reported a 15% growth for 2013 with a market share of 33%.

Simon attributes this ongoing success to constant investment and the release of innovative products. A new product is expected to be released every 20 days in 2014. Several exciting items have debuted since January, including the newest addition to the family of compact fishfinder and chartplotter products, the Elite-4 and Mark-4 HDI (Hybrid Dual Imaging) series.

The new units feature built-in GPS antennae and high-definition mapping options. The HDI technology combines Broadband Sounder and Downscan Imaging for the best possible views beneath your boat.

More good news is that the new software upgrade for Elite-7 HDI and Elite-5 HDI includes the Afrikaans language option. The brand-new Elite-4 HDI series units also come standard with the Afrikaans language option.

Another recent relese is the Lowrance SonarHub for coastal and inland water users which is now available from dealers countrywide. The compact sounder module allows for CHIRP Technology, StructureScan HD with DownScan imaging as well as the new Lowrance SpotlightScan bow-mounted solution for HDS Gen2 models.

Insight Genesis is an online tool which allows you to create custom contour maps of your favourite fishing and boating grounds based on your own sonar log recordings. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art mapping features such as bottom hardness, vegetation layer overlays, trend analysis tools, online storage and backup of your maps.

In another surprise announcement from Lowrance SA’s managing director Lisbeth Plotz, pricing has actually gone down on Lowrance units purchased from recognised SA dealers.

She added that each unit also carries a threeyear warranty from Lowrance SA compared to a one-year warranty offered overseas.

Other new releases include Lowrance’s SpotlightScan Sonar Trolling Motor Transducer with DownScan Imaging and Broadband Sounder technology which targets key fishing areas, providing cr ystal-clear picture-like images.

For more information on these and other Lowrance products, contact Lowrance South Africa on (031) 368-6649 or visit your nearest dealer.

SMALLS

ADVERTISERS’

BOAT FOR SALE

SKIPPERS’TRAINING

OBTAIN your SAMSA skipper’s certificate of competence. Theoretical, practical and surf launch training by an experienced commercial skipper.

Phone Kobus on 082 891 3652, (012) 348-9078 or (012) 361-2617, e-mail <skippers@twobar.co.za> or visit their website <www.twobar.co.za>.

COBRA CAT 700 (2008 model) with 2 x 175hp Suzuki motors and double-axle trailer. Extras include sun canopy, safety equipment, two-way radio, fighting chair, luna tube,deckwash and more.

Price: R550 000 excl VAT. Tax invoice will be provided Contact: Chris on 082 657 5001

PONTA HOUSE FOR SALE BOAT FOR SALE

PONTA DO OURA — Large house for sale. Split into two to accommodate two families. Sleeps 30 people in seven bedrooms. House boasts four bathrooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi, air conditioning, very large boat house and servants squarters. Sold fully furnished. Cobra Cat 900 also available.

Price: $400 000 Contact: Kelvin on 060 5277 989 or email <kelvindoust00@gmail.com>.

ACE GLIDER 630 (2010 model) with 150hp Mercury Optimax motors (counter rotating) with beach kits.

Includes sound system, nav lights, Lowrance HDS7 f/finder, fridge, front and back canopies, outriggers, luna tubes,livewell and double axle trailer.

Price: R550 000 Contact: Paul at Boating International Edenvale on (011) 452-8280 or email <paul@boatinginternational.co.za>.

BOAT FOR SALE

DEADLINE for the July/August 2014 issue of SKI-BOAT magazine is 14th May 2014.

ACE GLIDER 630 (2013 model) with 150hp Mercury EFI 4-strokes, SmartCraft gauges and hydraulic steering. Only done 67 hours. Includes outriggers, Lowrance HDS 9 touchscreen unit, Structure Scan, deckwash system, sound system, plastic clears, boat and motor covers and double-axle trailer.

Price: R895 000 Contact: Paul at Boating International Edenvale on (011) 452-8280 or email <paul@boatinginternational.co.za>.

BOOK YOUR SPACE

NOW! Phone Joan on (031) 572-2289 or Lyn on (011) 425-2052 <adverts@mags.co.za>

INDEX

Aceyewear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Atlantic Suzuki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Billfish University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Bluewater Boats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Boating International . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Boating World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Boating World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Bom Bom Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Club Marine Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Corrosion Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Durban Boat Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 Durban Yamaha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 East Coast Fishing Expo . . . . . . . . . .40 Evinrude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Fishtube.tv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 Garmin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Grant Thompson Replicas . . . . . . . .80 Honda Knysna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Honda Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Imtech/Furuno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Jo'burg Boat Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96 Jonsson Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Kenya Grand Challenge . . . . . . . . . .33 LA Axles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Landrover Umhlanga . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Leecat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Lowrance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Lucky's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Matoya Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 McCrystal Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . .36 MDM Raymarine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 MDM Raymarine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Meerensee Ski-Boat Club . . . . . . . . .66 Mozambique Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Mr Winch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Natal Caravans & Marine . . . . . . . . . .2 Natal Powerboats . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 Nautitech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Nissan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Pure Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Rutherford Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . .108 SADSAA Classic Sponsors . . . . . . . .19 Shelly Beach Ski-Boat Club . . . . . . . .81 Shimano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Shimano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Ski-Port Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 SMD Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Supercat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Suzuki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 The Kingfisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 TOPS @ Spar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Turboformance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 Twister Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Two Oceans Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Vanguard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Vetus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92 Volvo Penta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Wildfly Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100 Yamaha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Yamaha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Z-Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 • 99

BUSINESS CLASSIFIEDS

Advertise your business here for just R860! (incl. VAT)

Contact Joan (031) 572 2289 or Lynette (011) 425 2052

to book your space now!

Booking DEADLINE for the July/August issue of

is 14 May 2014

104 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

DIRECTORY

KENYA DEADLINE FOR SKI-BOAT JULY/A UGUST 2014 ISSUE:

For the best results!

Phone Erwin Bursik Tel: (031) 572-2289

14 MAY 2014 BOOK YOUR SPACE SPACE NOW!

ONLY R480 PER BLOCK! PHONE JOAN ON (031) 572-2289 NOW! SKI-BOAT May/June 2014 â&#x20AC;¢ 105

RAPALA LIP

Last Word by Johan Smal

appease the crew’s lamented spirits.

“This is what makes Cabo das Agulhas fishing so unique. One really enjoys a good day at sea, as they are in very in short supply. Maybe next time!”

Andrew concluded!

at Alphard Banks ...

D

URING the recent 2014 Two Oceans Marlin Challenge hosted by Suidpunt Deep Sea Angling Club at Struisbaai, because of very unpleasant sea conditions most boats opted to try their luck behind the 12 Mile Bank. Very few boats went to the Skipskop area, with the remaining handful — the very brave ones — heading for the Alphard Banks some 42 miles over the horizon.

This track took them straight into the teeth of large swells driven by 15-20 knot easterly winds causing a ver y obnoxious short and sharp cross-chop, the most uncomfortable seas experienced during this event in a very long time.

GWAZA With an important ego to defend, Andrew van Zyl’s Gwaza instinctively became one of the brave. Unfortunately, only a short distance from shore, the team’s illustrious praise singer, James Taylor, suffered a back injury and had to be taken back to shore for some care.

As the prestigious winners of the 2013 event and determined to defend their title, the remaining crew proceeded forthwith. Some 20 miles out, eventually reaching the Halfway House, they (reluctantly) decided to spend some time there, trusting to make some valu-

Taking on water in the heat of the moment as a wave breaks over Gwaza’s stern. Unique fishing indeed at Cabo das Agulhas. able catches, as was the case last year, which subsequently won them the competition.

However, it was not to be. Some time later — spurred on by a steady flow of marlin activity reports from other areas — they decided to move to more productive grounds. Continuing the remaining slow 20 mile Groot Trek to the Alphard’s, they eventually arrived there at 3pm, just in time to commence the return journey.

Despondent, weather-beaten and with more than the odd wave breaking over their stern, they headed home.

Without a single marlin to soothe the lingering pains of their dreadfully difficult day at sea, James Taylor — flat on his back in bed at home and even more downhearted — reverted to poetry to

Ode to Two Oceans Marlin Tournament 2014 At sacred point where oceans meet a tournament of old not for riches or reward in spirit of camaraderie taming marlin — dragons of the sea and so they came those gallant knights of rod and reel.

Four days they gather in clubhouse libations to Auster and Neptune appeasing gods of wind and sea blessings for their quest to put fishing talents to the test and so they drank those legless knights of rod and reel.

At last the weather wizards speak the long awaited call rings out drink-dazed knights board chariots that hundreds of thirsty horses propel onto a crazed and windswept hell

106 • SKI-BOAT May/June 2014

and so they jousted those intrepid knights of rod and reel.

On bucking craft they battled on trolling aft their gaudy baits to lure great dragons from the deep returning with stories of many that came but in final tally only nine are tamed and so they fished those canny knights of rod and reel.

When dance nor drink can still the wind the tournament is ended three of the nine and all honour to them upon whose bow was blazoned Makaira and so they parted those undaunted knights of rod and reel.

James Taylor Knight of the good boat Gwaza <james@cdra.org.za>

MAKAIRA Mike Broderick, the skipper and owner of the 34ft Gecat, also took the courageous decision to head for the Alphard Banks. Being a shrewd strategist, however, and well aware that the journey would take more than five hours in a very uncomfortable sea — mostly in the dark — he decided to leave port at 3.30am.

However, if you want to put anyone off deep sea fishing for life, all you need to do is simply invite him along on a day like this. Mother Nature will take care of the rest.

Hugging a bucket for dear life — tightly squeezed against his chest most of the time, even whilst visiting the loo, he’ll suffer in silence whilst trying to take comfort from the sympathetic gazes of his deeply concerned fellow crew members.

Danie Kotze, a well-seasoned outdoor and fitness fanatic, mountain biker, kite-surfer and Trans-Agulhas participant, can vouch for this. This was his first time on an offshore fishing trip, so he came prepared with advanced psychological counselling. He was also well-equipped with various anti-motionsickness medications and the inimitable neatly-strapped wrist-bands — purposely designed to combat the dreaded mal de mer phenomenon.

Halfway through his 151⁄2-hour ordeal, Danie Kotze begs for mercy.

Having coped successfully with only the first ten minutes of his harrowing 1512⁄ hour ordeal, he began impersonated a chameleon as the colour of his face varied between see-through white and ashen green. Then his sound effects hurt everyone’s ears as he shouted for “Hooey” whilst unsuccessfully trying to get rid of whatever was still left in his desiccated body.

“On more than one occasion I was convinced that this would be my last day on Earth, but fortunately I survived and didn’t succumb in the arms of the crew whilst being resuscitated,” Danie proudly concluded.