COMPETITION
MAKAIRA
claims bragging rights
2022 Rosebowl Tournament By Craig Smith
F
OR the competitive angler, the epitome of fishing is that first morning 4am wake up and the excitement that lies ahead. This year’s Rosebowl had “excitement” in abundance, as the initial proposed launch from Mapelane was cancelled a week before the event which was fished 25 to 29 April. The exceptionally heavy rains in KwaZulu-Natal had caused the Umfolozi River to flood and breach the Lake St Lucia estuary mouth, so launching was shifted to the estuary mouth. This, the 42nd Rosebowl competition was hosted by Albatross Ski-Boat Club and coincided with our 50th Jubilee. Although the competition is all about friendships and cameraderie, it really comes down to the bragging rights given to the club that wins the sought-after Rosebowl Trophy. It was a well-attended event with 32 boats and 132 anglers participating.The weather prediction looked grim, with only a possible two days of fishable weather, but our “local” fisherman (Mr Hit It) assured us of a full week on the water, albeit in some not-so-pleasant conditions. The fishing started off slow with the lead being juggled between the clubs, and excitement built up to what would be an absolutely superb last day.
There was plenty of fun all round with the weigh-in abuzz each day, thanks to St Lucia SBC supplying delicious burgers and boerie rolls along with cold beverages. As usual, Wednesday was the “Spirit” evening and karaoke was on the cards.Voices were soon well lubricated, and Makaira took the singing to new heights. By dawn on the last day, the teams were lined up at the river mouth eager to make the most of the day. At that stage the clubs were relatively close to each other in the point standings. A strong north-easter was predicted and most teams either headed straight out or to the north. Before long the billfish strikes were being reported! Having only had one black marlin release on the Wednesday by TSC’s Fin Rider and a sailfish release by ERBFC’s Predator on the Thursday, expectations were high for the final day. Team Makaira did not disappoint, as the call ups on strikes were coming in thick and fast. Fishaholic (the original) released two blue marlin, while Salt Life (37kg) and Bucket List (10kg) each had a sailfish release and Woep Wap released a black marlin. SKI-BOAT July/August 2022 • 45
