Ski-Boat January 2017

CONTENTS

January/February 2017 Volume 33 Number 1 COVER: GOTCHA! A 300 lb black marlin recently tagged, photographed and released by Bobby du Plessis of Soolyman Sportfishing Charters off Bazaruto Island, Moçambique.

Photo supplied by Bobby du Plessis.

FEATURES

10

It’s a Certainty!

2016 Mercury OET Bill- & Gamefish Tournament — by Erwin Bursik

19

Gamefish Galore It’s summertime and the fishing is easy — by Shane Dennis

29

Buying Pre-Owned Boats Part 4: Electronics and extras — by Nick Landzanakis

36

Something Old, Something New Z-Craft’s new owners promise old-fashioned top quality service

43

50

Flipped!

Sooner or later we all have a turn — by Sean Lange

46

Get Ready to Rumble What’s new at the 2017 Durban Ski-Boat Club Festival

50

Solid & Stylish Boat Review: The Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher — by Erwin Bursik

57

Play by the Rules Guidelines for responsible angling — by Bruce Mann, Jade Maggs & Stuart Dunlop

64

19

Big Tigers in Trying Conditions 2016 Tigerfish Bonanza — by Mark Wilson

75

Good Weather, Good Crowds & Good Business 2016 Cape Town Boat Show

DEPARTMENTS 8 9 39 40 41 71

Editorial — by Erwin Bursik Postbox Subscribe and WIN! Kingfisher Award Rules Kingfisher Award Winners Reel Kids

57 73 83 87 88 89 90

Mercury Junior Anglers Marketplace Ad Index Business Classifieds Charters & Destinations Directory Rapala Lip — Last Word from the Ladies

The official magazine of the South African Deep Sea Angling Association

Publisher: Erwin Bursik Editor: Sheena Carnie Advertising Executive: Mark Wilson Editorial Assistant: Vahini Pillay Advertising Consultant: Joan Wilson Accountant: Jane Harvey Executive Assistant: Kim Hook Boat Tests: Heinrich Kleyn Contributors: Erwin Bursik, Shane Dennis, Stuart Dunlop, Nick Landzanakis, Sean Lange, Jade Maggs, Bruce Mann and Mark Wilson, ADVERTISING – NATIONAL SALES: Angler Publications Mark Wilson cell: 073 748 6107 Joan Wilson (031) 572-2280/89/97/98 ADVERTISING – Gauteng & Mpumalanga: Paul Borcherds — 082 652 5659 Publishers: Angler Publications cc PO Box 20545, Durban North 4016 Telephone: (031) 572-2280/89/97/98 Fax: (031) 572-7891 e-mail: angler@mags.co.za Subscriptions to SKI-BOAT: R160 per annum (six issues).

New subscriptions and renewals: SKI-BOAT Subscriptions Department, PO Box 20545, Durban North 4016.

Telephone: (031) 572-2280/89/97/98 Fax: (031) 572-7891 • e-mail: safety@mags.co.za • Through www.africanangler.com, or • E-zine digital subscriptions — visit www.africanangler.com > SKIBOAT > SUBSCRIBE, then choose your option.

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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 January/February 2017

EDITORIAL

2017 LOOKS TO BE A YEAR OF PROMISE

W

ITH the South African summer season now in full swing, we welcome the arrival of the predatory pelagic gamefish which are, of course, the primary reason we go fishing and own boats.

Despite the late arrival of warmer spring weather, the recent billfish catches off northern KwaZulu-Natal and the massive yellowfish tuna that have been caught off the Cape coast have revived anglers’ enthusiasm and excitement following the lethargy of winter.

Erwin Bursik I experienced the buzz of excitement recentPublisher ly during the start of the Sodwana billfish season. Seeing a number of these magnificent fish coming into the spread behind the craft on which I was fishing, along with photos and stories of the big yellowfish tuna off Cape Point reminded me why I have an offshore fishing craft and why I hanker to go fishing so often.

With so many signs pointing to a good fishing season in the new year, there is little more we as deep sea anglers could wish for, both for Christmas and the new year, than for the summer season to maintain its momentum and provide all us recreational anglers with reasons to go to sea and catch a few fish. Well, yes, we could also wish for some new tackle, permission to go fishing as often as we’d like and funds to pay for more exotic fishing trips, but you know what I mean ....

2016 was a tough year for most South Africans for a number of reasons, and the impact was felt in the recreational marine industry here in South Africa. However, indications shown during the three major boat shows held in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town during 2016 promise a revitalisation in the industry and a continuing belief in the long term future of this industry and the sport of recreational fishing.

A day on the ocean, the thrill of a strike and the excitement of the tussle between angler and fish is, I maintain, the primary reason we go fishing — and what keeps many of us going during the long weeks of work. Take fish out of the equation and, with respect, most of our lives would fall apart, not to mention that boating and fishing equipment would become redundant. And thus my excitement at the fantastic beginning to the 2017 fishing season and my fervent hope that the year ahead will continue to give us all the incentive to go to sea and fish.

One truly outstanding catch we heard about just before we went to print was made by South African Protea angler, Dave Martin, during the ILTTA International fished off Puerto Rico in November. Dave landed a 500 lb-plus blue marlin on 20 lb line — a 25:1 catch! Congratulations, Dave! Look out for the full story in the March 2017 issue of SKI-BOAT With much of the recent politics attached to our sport having drifted away into the mists of 2016, it is time to put all the perceived hurdles of safety matters, Marine Reserves and quota restrictions behind us and concentrate our thoughts and efforts on the pleasures of being out at sea. We should also plan to participate in some of the many competitions being hosted because these opportunities combine serious fishing with the conviviality of mixing with fellow anglers, thus enjoying the variety of on- and off-the-water experiences.

It is for this reason that we at SKI-BOAT traditionally place a lot of emphasis on covering a number of the major competitions held throughout the year. This coverage not only highlights the efforts of those teams or individuals who bask in the glory of success, but also the dedicated efforts of the organisers and the very many sponsors that support competitions throughout South Africa, to make our sport that much more enjoyable.

As this issue of SKI-BOAT magazine is distributed in mid-December, all of us at Angler Publications wish our readers and advertisers a very blessed Christmas and a prosperous, happy and fish-filled 2017.

Till the next tide.

Erwin Bursik

POSTBOX

VIDAL DELIVERS AGAIN FOR THE “RAMME” Dear Editor, Each year a group of guys (Ramme) goes to Cape Vidal for a week to go test their strength against the pelagic fish of the area. These 11 guys (pictured above) come from all over the country — Centurion, Secunda, Witbank, Nelspruit and Saldhana in the Westen Cape. We all meet up at Secunda to start the so-called Ramme Trip to Vidal.

The ramme range in age from 23 to 72, and our convoy includes six bakkies and four boats. At the end of the six hour drive to Vidal we spend about two hours setting up camp and then the preparation starts for the fishing.

In 2016 we went to Cape Vidal right at the end of October and it proved to be good timing. On the Sunday morning by 4.30am everyone was up and excited to go fishing. This first day will be remember as the dorrie day, as they were jumping all over the show and it didn’t take too long to get a pack attack of dorries. Sunday was also the maiden voyage for our friends from Centurion with their brand new boat. They managed to get a lovely 20kg tuna and an 8kg dorrie — not too bad for first timers.

Monday was really a day to remember. Reel Shine picked up some nice

Something on your mind? Write to The Editor <sheena@mags.co.za>

live mackerel in front of the launch and they started a drift with three livebait swimming. Before long all hell broke loose on the boat as a reel began screaming out of control; we were losing line fast. After turning the boat around and chasing it for about 15 minutes we got back the 450m of backing that this beast took in under 15 seconds. Twenty-five minutes into the fight there was a big silver flash on the water and we realised this was a “crocodile” — a ’cuda over 20kg. Eventually we got the better of it, but it was only when this monster couldn’t fit into the fish hatch that we realised just how big she really was. When weighed she pulled the scales to a massive 28.8kg Tuesday was another day in paradise. We got through Vidal’s surf and hadn’t even got out the third rod when we were tight with more dorries.

Grandpa Paul caught a beauty of a bull dorado which weighed in at almost 10kg. This was also a good day for Lionel du Preez who got his first sailfish after a sailie pack attack.

The rest off the week continued to deliver with more tuna, dorado and wahoo. Vidal wil see the “Ramme” again later this year.

JACQUES LOOTS <jacques.loots08@gmail.com>

THANKS, BELL! James Coates (above) was thrilled to be featured on the Reel Kids page of the November 2016 issue of SKIBOAT magazine and was even more excited when he received his bundle of goodies. If you know a junior angler (under 16) who loves fishing, get them to write us a 500 word story and send us a couple of high quality pics and they could win a Shimano rod and reel courtesy of Bell Equipment.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 9

COMPETITION

WITH THANKS

Albatros • Assegaai Bande • Bakkies Baai • Bakkie Bohmer • Bernos Slaghuis • Camp Ross Ramoss, Inhaca Island • Dolos (Oom Attie) • Eventually Lodge • Eventus Sitrus • Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife • Fishing’s Finest • iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority • Jesser Point Boat Lodge • John Deere • Jormid Electrical • KMSHK • LABA •

Certainty’s crew were thrilled with their prize of twin 150hp Mercury motors which were handed over by Craig Gutteridge and Francois Human from Rutherford Marine/Mercury SA.

FOR SPONSORSHIP

Cross Country • CC Sport & Custom Sublimation • Certainty Lodge & Safaris • Chrysler SA (Jeep) • Diageo Gani’s Sports Witbank • Garmin SA • Grip Hooks • Halco • Heineken • Hoedspruit Diepsee Hengelklub Leatherbacks (Sodwana Bay Lodge) • Ligogo Lodge • Loo4U Toilet Hire • Mallards Marine • McGee & Co Lydenburg

By Erwin Bursik

F

ROM the ridiculous to the sublime is the best way of comparing the 2016 Mercury OET Bill- & Gamefish Tournament to the OET held in 2015.

In my review of the 2015 event I wrote that Chris Rothman, President of the Mpumalanga Deep Sea Angling Association, and his OET committee had earned their stripes during that competition, encountering the worst weather that the OET had experienced in 38 years. Gale force winds destroyed the marquee and all but prohibited any boats from going to sea.

Eventually the fleet of boats only ventured to sea for a day and one short morning and even that was not the nicest conditions.

However, by the time it came to the 2015 prizegiving on the Friday night, a new marquee had been erected and redecorated and Chris and his hard working committee ran an extremely pleasant and exciting prizegiving.

At the opening function of the 2016 Mercury OET the weather was perfect and the marquee stood firm; the revised styling and decoration added greatly to the visual impact on all those who walked in. It seemed the weather would play along too, with predictions promising the anglers at least four days of great conditions to ply their sport.

With the gremlins of the previous year off their backs and the 2016 Mercury OET officially opened, the extremely hard working Mercury OET committee lead by Stephan Kleynhans could relax and enjoy the conviviality of the 2016 Mercury OET. Participants at the 2016 event were very impressed with the “red carpet” entering through the middle of the very large marquee, lined with the flags of all the clubs affiliated to the Mpumalanga Deep Sea Angling Association. The new set up with round tables and chairs, and surrounded by sponsors’ stalls and sponsors’ banners made a very welcoming change to the staid configuration of the past.

Another huge step forward was the constant promotion of the companies and individuals who’d sponsored the 2016 OET. This made a huge impression on those sponsors attending the event and being “spotlighted” made them all feel their support — big or small — was appreciated by all who attended the 2016 Mercury OET Bill- & Gamefish Tournament.

Standing out in front of the raised dias was this year’s top prize — two magnificent 150hp Mercury motors valued at over R400 000. Indeed, the idea of winning these two and then upgrading one’s existing motors was a target we were all aiming for.

McGee Motors of Lydenburg had stepped up to provide the runners-up prize — they had a stylishly branded Ford Ranger on display at the event, and the second placed team would have the use of the vehicle for six months. During that time they’d be able to fully experience the extensive capabilities of this vehicle that has taken the offshore boating market for tow vehicles by storm.

On Monday 8 November the whole fleet launched into a moderate southeasterly sea; hope, excitement and anticipation ran high as the fishing finally began. Were the billfish going to cooperate, enabling us to add the cherry on the top of the proverbial cake supplied by the OET and the weather gods?

At 08h45, after a few false starts with fish lost,Vick Oellerman aboard Zean-Mari released the first marlin of the Mercury OET 2016 — a blue.

WITH THANKS FOR SPONSORSHIP

McGee Ford • MCON Construction • Mega Lube Olie • Mercury • MNR Olie • Mojo & Squidnation Teazers Mpumalanga Deep Sea Angling Association • N2 Echo Fuels • N4 Plant • National Luna • Ndlovu Construction Nelspruit en Distrik HK • Nemo Dive Charter & Accommodation • Nico Zaaiman • Paul Borcherds (Pro Rig Sport Fishing)

Our team aboard B’s Nest raised a number of billfish that morning starting with a pack of three striped marlin magnificently lit up for the occasion. We failed to connect, but enjoyed the sighting. Later in the morning Brad Kidd fought and released a good sized black marlin on 15kg tackle. That not only got us on the leaderboard, but also a big step in the direction of the twin Mercury motors up for grabs.

Not long after we reported our catch and release, one of the old salts of Sodwana, Tokkie Hugo, fishing aboard his craft Certainty, started his race to the finish line by releasing a striped marlin at 13h11.

The word “stripey” proliferated the call up session each day the fleet put to sea. Yes, the striped marlin were finally back in our waters after an absence of about four years. A few early sightings and catches of these impressive and exciting billfish in the preceding few weeks had us hopeful that they would still be around during the OET, and indeed they were. Seventeen were released during the event and many, many more of these notoriously excitable marlin that are not easy to hook, excited and frustrated most of us fishing the OET week.

As can be seen in the billfish catch box below, blue marlin were a close second.

Surprisingly, there was a notable absence of sailfish during the first three days even though fishing conditions were nigh perfect. A few were reported to have been raised, but only one was released on day two and one on day three. After the big westerly that blew us out on the Thursday, there were many more sailfish around on the Friday, with seven being officially released.

As I mentioned, Certainty started her race on day one with a stripey, then they got another stripey on day two which put them into top spot on the leaderboard at the time. Day three didn’t go well for the team, though, and they returned with zero.

Then, just after 06h00 on Friday Tokkie reported a release of a sailfish. Certainty was in the lead again with the bit firmly between her teeth and the winning flag in sight. When Tokkie reported a black marlin release at 07h43 we could all see Certainty was flying to the finish line. At 09h44 Tokkie’s voice once again shattered the ether, this time reporting a blue marlin release making Certainty the virtual winner of the Mercury OET 2016. To top that, they had recorded a grandslam of three billfish species released in one day.

Cayrima was running second at that stage, having released a blue marlin on day two and a stripey on day three. They brought in two more striped marlin at 10h52 and 11h10 (from a double strike and hookup). It was a magnificent effort, but they had to be satisfied with being number two on the leaderboard at close of play on Friday, 11 November 2016.

From a billfish perspective Sodwana came up tops, producing the second best overall catch of billfish in the history of this outstanding

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 TOTALS

Total 5 10 14 19 48

Blue 2 1 4 6 13

2016 BILLFISH CATCHES Black Striped Sailfish 1 2 3 4 1 2 7 1 1 4 7 7 17 9

Shortbill 1 1 2

WITH THANKS FOR SPONSORSHIP

Penn Fishing Tackle • Pulsator Lures • Rocktuff Pumps • Rothman Motors/Isuzu Trucks • Sea Pike Hengelklub Seevarkie Guesthouse • Ski-Boat Magazine • Sodwana Hengelklub • Specialised Security Services • Sunset Boats • Taratibo Tropical Dream Tackle • Turbo Paneelkloppers • Two Summers Electrical • Willem Pretorius • Wokini Guest House • Zean-Mari

competition. It was fun — lots of fun — but there was also a vast amount of frustration. How marlin can come into one’s spread in great numbers one day and then, the next day treat the same boat as if it had the pox and stay far away, I just don’t know.

On day five our tem on B’s Nest spent the entire day trolling away from any of the dozens of marlin being reported. We did not raise a single billfish and were on the point of committing harakiri when the final bell tolled at 14h00 on the Friday.

Although we had no luck on the last day, that certainly was not true for some of the other boats. The most outstanding billfish was released in the final hour of the final day of the 2016 OET. Onboard the provincial president’s boat, Joey, first time marlin angler Wikus du Plessis fought a blue marlin for about four hours on 15kg line class and eventually brought it to the boat for an official release. Captain Chris Rothman, an international Protea angler, estimated this fish that took them out to sea from the 100 metre mark to over 800 metres, weighed approximately 200kg. This makes Wikus’s marlin almost a 15:1 catch, which is a world-class achievement in any angling circles.

The most meritorious gamefish landed at the 2016 Mercury OET was a huge yellowfin tuna of 82kg caught by Johan Truter aboard Mad Marley. This is also the biggest yellowfin tuna to 2016 TOP 10 TEAMS Certainty . . . . . . . . . . . .564,9 points Cayrima . . . . . . . . . . . . .413,5 points Lambada . . . . . . . . . . . .300,0 points Stefi-Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . .297,2 points C-Cruiser . . . . . . . . . . . .266,7 points Whale Watcher . . . . . . .256,7 points Mat Suri . . . . . . . . . . . . .216,3 points Little Joey . . . . . . . . . . .200,0 points Pinnacle . . . . . . . . . . . . .200,0 points Maestro . . . . . . . . . . . . .179,0 points have been weighed in during the long history of the OET. During the very impressive prizegiving that was orchestrated to perfection, the crowning moment was when Team Certainty were proclaimed the winners of the twin Mercury 150hp 4-stroke outboard motors. They made their way to the podium amid a standing ovation, where they were handed their R400 000 prize by Rutherford Marine/Mercury South Africa’s Craig Gutteridge.

Rob Knudsen of Team SkyBird, together with his dad Dave and brotherin-law Kenny Rossouw, has fished the OET for more years than I can remember, and they have won its major prize at least three times that I can recall. He really summed up the event when he told me that this year’s OET was by far the most enjoyable and well run event he has ever fished. That’s a compliment I fully endorse and one which I am sure will be echoed by the vast majority of participants who took part this year.

Once again the Mercury OET organisers did an impressive job with every aspect of the event from beach control, tractor assistance on the beach and marquee management to the efficient and pleasant bar helpers and the two MCs who did exceptionally well — Brad van Zyl and Henry de Pradines.

The taste of success is sweet, and this was appreciated by all who made the 2016 Mercury OET Bill- & Gamefish Competition as “sweet” as it was.

In 2017 the Mercury OET will be celebrating its 40th anniversary — a milestone for any tournament. You too can be part of this historic event, but make sure you book early as the numbers are restricted by the authorities.

See you there!

TACTICS

It’s summertime and the fishing is easy

Shane Dennis shows off a beautiful 27.3kg tuna caught by Sarah Dennis.

by Shane Dennis

H

OORAY — the gamefish season is finally upon us! With the winds settling and the seas calming, it’s time to gear up and get ready to catch some quality

gamefish. In this article I will show you some highly successful traces and tactics to put to the test this summer. I have picked the brains of many of Durban’s finest anglers and compiled a list of tactics and tackle they’ve found to be most successful for catching

gamefish in the summer months.

Those of us based in Durban are very fortunate to have a wide variety of gamefish on offer, but the main target species are yellowfin tuna, dorado, queen mackerel and the elusive king mackerel.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 19

Here are two ways to hook your livebait when fishing around the barges — behind the head or just in front of the tail.

YELLOWFIN TUNA The yellowfin tuna is by far the most commonly targeted species as it is simply the easiest to catch.

A variety of methods can be used and they all seem to pay off somewhere along the line. If you choose to target them by trolling lures they are generally not too fussy, and will take both the Halcos and konas you have in the spread.

Most boats in Durban are adequately equipped to troll with five rods in a spread. Obviously the bigger boats with outriggers can add more to the spread, but most ski-boats are suited to pulling five sticks. The general game plan is to run two Halcos — one on either side of the prop wash and then two konas just behind them. The “Japan” line kona is a must in the centre of the spread, as this is usually the first rod to go.

Pulling lures at Number One first thing in the morning has often proved to be successful. If that doesn’t pay off keep the spread out and make your way towards the ships. Trolling around and in between the ships usually produces the goods. If all else fails work the column from 50-70m of water — it then comes down to being in the right place at the right time.

The Durban barges are also a common target area for tuna. Whilst looking for bait, it’s vital to have a trap stick or two out rigged with a live mozzie or mackerel. I would also suggest scaling down on leader size and wouldn’t fish more than a 60 lb fluorocarbon leader. Hook sizes will vary from a 4/0 to a 6/0 depending on the bait size. The bait is best presented with the hook placed behind its head. Some anglers like to hook the bait through the lips or nose, but I have often seen fish lost with this method, as the hook tends to fold back on the bait and doesn’t allow for a hook up.

Another method that is commonly practiced in Durban now is “chasing dolphins”. This is the easiest way to target tuna as the tuna and dolphins have a unique relationship and work togeth-

These kona-style lures work well for dorado and wahoo.

Some of the author’s favourite Halcos for tuna and dorado.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 21

22 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

Halco Roosta poppers work well when targeting gamefish. er whilst feeding. Anglers can target them on live baits or poppers. The preferred bait seems to be mackerel and mozzies. Hooking the bait through the tail is the best way to present it as the bait becomes aerodynamic and allows for a further cast.

The tuna also love the popper and this also makes for an extremely exciting bite. There is no better sight than seeing a bomb tuna smash a popper off the surface. My personal favourite poppers are the Halco Roosta range — especially the gold with white/red head.

The only problem that has come about with the chasing of dolphins is the rush and silliness it causes amongst boats, especially if there are multiple boats chasing one pod. It’s a common sight to see boats racing each other and almost colliding to get into the best position. I think it’s a matter of time before a serious incident occurs, so rather take it slow and be considerate to others around you.

DORADO This has to be one of the most enjoyable fish to catch and one that is great fun for the youngsters to catch. We are fortunate to have a fair number of dorado coming through our east coast

waters and they too are fairly easy to target. If you’re not fortunate enough to have FAD marks or four-strokes to run the hundreds of kilometres to get to the FADS, then it’s best to target them between and around the ships.

The spread used for targeting tuna is perfect to use for dorado as well. In this case the preferred colours for the konas are pink, purple and black, blue and white, and then the fruit salad. You can mix up your colour choice for the Halcos, but the natural sardine colour, purple with red head and the red and black have proved themselves time and again.

Fishing livebait around the ships is also a very productive option. See Hitting the Ships in the March/April 2016 issue of SKI-BOAT for a more detailed plan on fishing around the ships for the various species.

QUEEN MACKEREL This is also a fun fish to catch, but it can also cause you to pull out your hair at times. Durban is fortunate to have many different spots in close proximity to the launch sites, which boats of all sizes can take advantage of. Local spots include the old whaling station, Blue Lagoon, Rocket Hut and the Umhlanga lighthouse.

A variety of methods can be used, but the Natal snoek gurus of Durban all tend to lean towards using strip baits and flicking small spoons into the backline. Most of the skippers tend to pull five rods with three strip baits and then two small Rapalas (CD7 and CD9) or small Halcos and Strike Pros.

The ideal speed to pull the lures is at a slow place, but speeding up and then slowing down the baits can also get the fish’s attention. Queen Mackerel tend to prefer a slow strip bait, but they love the spoon to be pulled faster. Natal snoek do become fussy, though, so the trick is to swop and change lures, until you can figure out their feeding pattern. They usually enjoy feeding close to the backline and on the edges of rip currents where the baitfish end up after being pushed out of the surf zone. As a skipper you need to be very alert when coming in close, as a few waves often surprise you out of nowhere.

The general colour preference for snoek feathers is plain white, green and the live glow couta duster. When you place a strip bait on, the best baitfish are red eyes and sardines. Make sure your strip bait is cut straight with a sharp tail piece to prevent it from spinning and twisting your line.

Left: Adrian de la Hunt with a dorado caught between the ships.

Above: Swimming lures for queen mackerel.

Right: Strip bait lures for queen mackerel.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 23

Use this bait chart as a guide when making up a trace.

An IGFA-compliant trace (left) and a common ’cuda trace (right).

KING MACKEREL Unfortunately these fish have been extremely scarce over the past few years, with low numbers being caught.

However, the fish that have been caught have been quality fish. Looking at the stats from now to way back in the ’60s, for some reason it seems that every decade starts off extremely slow with poor numbers and steadily improves to the latter part of the decade when the quantity of catches improves. We are hoping this theory is true and that we’ll soon start getting some better numbers in the hatch.

Once again Durban is very fortunate to have a wide variety of spots where anglers can fish for ’cuda. Some of the favourites down south are the Whaling Station, Pathway, Cutting and Windy Corner. To the north we have a wide variety, but the common grounds tend to be Umdloti, Sea Belle and Stud Rock.

Anglers can fish a variety of depths at these spots, but the big fish always tend to be in the shallows. It’s important to position your baits at a variety of depths to see where the fish are feeding. Local anglers like to always have a big shad right on the bottom with a heavy sinker. They all say that this is most likely to go first and produce the goods. A live mackerel has also proved its worth when fished on the surface and furthest from the boat.

When trolling your baits around, whether they be live- or dead baits, it’s important to make sure they are in top condition, with the hooks perfectly positioned and the bait swimming straight. If you choose to slow troll your baits, the trick is to go slow and not troll too fast which will cause all your baits to come to the surface. It’s very important to keep those baits at the different depths to find where the fish are feeding. If the wind is strong or 24 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

the current is ripping, don’t be shy to go onto anchor over a bump and stagger your baits at different depths. It’s also very important to have a bottom stick going up and down to create more

Doug Dunstan with a beautiful big ’cuda caught off Peace Cottage.

activity in the water and to draw the attention of nearby ’cuda. If you are able to work a ’cuda spoon between the baits on the troll or on anchor, you greatly improve the odds of a strike.

Tackle will vary depending on the angler and what they have used successfully in the past. The common ’cuda trace consists of a single hook in front with two treble hooks at different positions on the fish to ensure at least one of the hooks has a chance of a hook up.

If you choose to fish IGFA compliant rigs, the common double single hooked trace also does the trick. You need to make sure that you make your trace in proportion to your bait size and use hooks that are not too big for your bait.

A livebait won’t last long or swim straight if it’s suffocated by excess wire and heavily weighted hooks.

A variety of colours work when fishing for ’cuda, but a few colours do outperform the rest. Personally my favourite has to be a live glow ’cuda duster and a plain green bead. Another trick is to take your duster and secure it around 10cm in front of your bait using a toothpick or elastic. This gives your bait a double effect and doesn’t suffocate your bait.

Above is a bait chart you can use as a guide line when making up a trace. If you use these measurements for the baits you will not make traces that are too big or too small. If you enlarge the chart to the full size it will also allow you to make traces where you can see exactly where on your bait’s body the hooks will sit.

The gamefish season is already in full swing, and with numerous reports of good quality dorado and yellowfin in abundance, the opportunity for a good fish is certainly in your favour. As with all sports, with persistence and effort, you will certainly succeed.

TOP TIPS

A helm station that gives a very good first impression.

by Nick Landzanakis

I

N the last three issues of SKI-BOAT I have shared my views on what to look out for when buying a pre-owned offshore craft. So far I have covered the trailer, the craft itself and the all important power source, the outboard motors. In this issue I’ll elaborate on the last remaining items that most buyers pay little attention to — the extras!

Just read all the advertisements: “full house of extras”, “all instruments and electronics”, “ready to take to the water”.

That wording all implies that not only has the craft got all or most of the important electronics, instrumentation and other extras, but also that they are in full working order. Herein lies the conundrum ... What are “extras”? What instrumentation and electronics do you really need? What type and model are fitted on the boat, and are they fully operational?

I have often seen it — a buyer becomes so enthralled with his “dream boat” that he totally overlooks the array of “extras”.

It’s only after he has purchased the craft and has taken it to

sea that these very important “extras” suddenly start to play a significant role. The many extras I’ll discuss in this article all play a major role once you get to sea for a day’s fishing. If there are problems they will quickly become apparent and you as the purchaser will just as quickly become annoyed and feel cheated.

As the old adage goes,“Buyer beware”. The legal adage of “voets toets” applies to most secondhand purchases, so make sure you take careful note of the extras. Having an “extra” that doesn’t work may not necessarily prevent you from going to sea, but it will certainly diminish the anticipated pleasure you were expecting from your new baby.

Below you’ll find a detailed list of the extras that are normally installed on pre-owned craft that come onto the market these days. Use this as a checklist and I guarantee you it will save you both heartache and money.

STEERING AND CONTROL In most installations the steering system, unlike the controls,

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 29

For a 12 year old craft this is immaculate!

is separate from the outboard motors fitted to the craft.

Although most boat manufacturers and boat dealers rigging out new craft choose controls supplied and compatible with the make of motor chosen, this does not generally apply to the steering system.

If a larger craft has the “Morse” style binnacle control levers and especially if it is dual control to a flybridge station, make sure the installation is sound and that the transfer of helm station control is easily and smoothly achieved.

The steering can either be mechanical or hydraulic as is the case on the vast majority of craft these days. A few of the old craft may still have a cabled pulley system, but these should be avoided. On the other end of the scale you get the “fly by wire” electronic systems which are generally not used on craft under eight metres in length.

In a mechanical steering system you’ll have a push-pull single cable in a guide casing that runs from a ratchet/gear mechanism attached to the steering wheel, leading aft under the craft gunnels to the lead motor or the tie bar connecting both motors. If the craft has this system make absolutely sure the steering is smooth and that there is no play or slippage in the gearing behind the dashboard and that the transfer cable shows no sign of wear or snagging when put under pressure from motor torque. It is important that this steering also works smoothly when the motors are trimmed, from right up to fully down. These steering cables are subject to wear and corrosion damage.

Hydraulic steering is by far the most popular these days and has stood the test of time, but there are still a few aspects that need checking. Firstly check that it’s a well-known brand Another neat console.

so that spares and servicing can be easily undertaken. Next test that the “lock to lock” number of turns is low, especially if the craft is to be used for surf launches. Whilst the hydraulic pump is activated by turning the steering wheel, it is easier to turn if the number of turns lock to lock is higher, but in surf operation making fast turns is more difficult if one has to turn the steering five times instead of 2.5 times to effect a full lock turn.

With hydraulic systems the pump and hydraulic ram at the back of the transom need to be serviced regularly, especially the hydraulic ram shaft which can be damaged by rust and sand. A tell tale fluid leak either behind the dashboard or at the ram is an indication that trouble could be brewing. Check the hydraulic fluid reservoir prior to water testing the craft and again after testing to see if there is any loss of fluid. If there is, pass op.

AUTO PILOTS Auto pilots have only really come into general use in the last 10-15 years, so you’ll only find them on relatively new craft.

Again, check the hydraulics and ensure that the entire system operates efficiently at all speeds during the on water tests. I would also check that the recalibration facility on the system does in fact function correctly.

RADIOS There are radios and then there are radios, and the same goes for the antenna system fitted to the boat under construction.

Sometimes these are el cheapo models installed just to get past the craft’s first safety inspection rather than one of the Helm station of a good preowned craft.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 31

32 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

Hydraulic ram at aft of boat.

better models that are reliable for the long run. Do some homework on the combo fitted so you are aware up front if a replacement will be required sooner rather than later. Note that the old 29mhz radios have been phased out for safety certification, and from 1 January 2017 you’ll require a VHF radio with a DSC (red button) facility.

It can be difficult to test a radio’s transmitting and receiving ability, because often an incorrectly installed radio will operate quite successfully over short distances but will not be up to scratch when communications over long distances become necessary.

Also note that most of the radios on the market these days are not repairable which basically means you could be in for the cost of a new radio.

GPS AND SONARS We are fortunate in South Africa because most of the major international purveyors of these machines are represented in our country by very reputable agents. This not only allows one to historically date any model, but also ensures that its functions and operations can be established if the instruction manual covering the equipment on the craft has been lost.

One of the problems encountered when upgrading a sonar or changing to another system is the access to the installed transducer. Those that are externally mounted do not present too great a problem, but if the transducer is built in (through-hull) one could be in for quite a big job replacing it.

My main challenge with regard to these electronic sonars is ascertaining whether a machine installed many years ago

Questionable? Behind helm - electrical wiring and hydraulic piping.

still functions adequately. Many sounders are installed when the craft was first acquired, requiring large cut outs in the dashboards of the craft. To replace or upgrade them sometimes requires some redesign and fitting.

When water testing a craft I suggest that the prospective buyer runs through the basic modes of the sonar to ensure that it’s working in general terms.

Bear in mind that it’s not possible for boat dealers to be fully compliant with every make and model produced over the last say 15 years. These machines take time and experience to fully understand what they are displaying, so it’s one of the chances one has to take when purchasing a pre-owned craft. In saying that, it’s my experience that the longevity of the sonar devices sold in South Africa over the last 20-25 years is remarkable. In the last three years in particular, sonar and GPS have advanced in leaps and bounds, and it’s more common to find clients upgrading to new technology than those replacing non-repairable machines.

MOTOR INSTRUMENTATION The integrated tachometer and motor management flushmounted dials installed with all outboard motors over the last 15 years have, in my experience, produced minimal problems.

It’s very much a case of they either work or they don’t.

When it comes to the gauges that don’t work, that’s usually as a result of electrical wiring problems, not because of faults with the gauges themselves.

The wiring of a modern ski-boat can present more problems than it should. Sometimes this is as a result of poor initial installation and the rigours a craft goes through as it Protection of control cables and electronics. Making for a very neat installation.

Push-pull steering that’s seen better days.

Note the rust on steering ram.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 33

Deck wash and live bait pump situated in the battery compartment.

A good make bilge luna tube pump that is in good condition. pounds its way over rough seas for years on end. Eventually this can result in loose electrical connections. When seaspray and washdown water make contact with these loose electrical connections it inevitably results in corrosion which can cause big problems.

Look behind the dashboard of any craft’s helm station and under the starboard gunnel which generally carries all the wires from aft-placed batteries to the switch panel, motor controls and then back to the motors and other aft-sited pumps as well as to the myriad other electronic systems and you will immediately see if this was a dedicated electrical fitment or a DIY special.

This make shift setup may work but it’s not ideal.

An upgrade will be required.

Buyers beware! A total rewiring will be necessary.

34 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

LIVEBAIT WELL/LUNA TUBES AND DECK WASHDOWN All three of these rely totally on either one, but hopefully two, saltwater pumps and will be plumbed in accordance with the owner’s original requirements.

Always check the brand of the pumps that have been installed. If they’re made by the manufacturers of bilge pumps that need to be extremely reliable, the saltwater pumps will carry the same credentials and should have a reasonably long life span on a recreational boat.

Once again it’s a good idea to test these pumps during onwater tests and if they work 100% and are of a good make you can be sure they will serve you for a fair amount of time.

CONCLUSION While writing these four articles about what to consider when purchasing a pre-owned offshore fishing craft, I have become acutely aware of the responsibility the boating industry carries when dealing in these craft.

We tread a fine line when we’re responsible to both the buyer and seller, and it is only the reputation we build up over many years that determines whether our knowledge and advice is in the best interests of both the buyer and seller.

As an industry we’re dealing with a product that is potentially lethal, is used extensively in an environment that is as harsh and unforgiving as one can get, and which is made even more volatile when the craft is exposed to extreme pressure while launching through the surf and running up a sandy beach at speed. During the trips to and from these many offthe-beaten-track launch sites the craft is forced to ride on a trailer that has limited suspension and no shock absorbers causing stresses and strains unparalleled through the hull of the craft. Indeed, our South African ski-boats are tough, proved by years of experience and a credit to our industry, but — and a big but — this inherent wear and tear has to be factored into the fundamental tenure of the life of an offshore craft.

The boating industry understands all these aspects and both the seller and the buyer have to acknowledge these factors when entering into such a transaction. In all instances go in with your eyes open.

MARKETPLACE

Nirvan Sewpal, Levi Sukdev and Kobus Duvenhage at the 2016 Johannesburg Boat Show.

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW Z-Craft’s new owners promise old-fashioned top quality service

Advertorial S most ski-boaters will know, ZCraft has been under new ownership since January 2016.

The new owners, Danny Sukdev and Nirvan Sewpal, are wellknown businessmen in Empangeni and Richards Bay. Although the company is under new leadership, Z-Craft will still produce the same top quality products everyone is used to. Customer care is their number one priority, and the staff

A

36 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

will ensure they give the same excellent service Z-Craft customers have come to expect.

Z-Craft has a bright future thanks to the drive and energy of the new owners, management and experienced staff.

The factory is managed by Stephen Pead who has well over 30 years experience in boat building. Rudolf Mncube, the assistant mechanic, has been with the company for six years, while the Z-Craft welders, Sabelo Dumane and Michael Msomi have been with the company for 16 years and 11

years respectively.

Thembinkosi Nthenga, the laminator, has been with Z-Craft for 22 years, while Robert Mncwango (spraypainter/finishes) has been with them for 22 years, and Cristvao Sitoe (polisher) has been on the staff for 16 years.

Z-Craft’s buyer, Karen Pead, is the lady who makes sure that the staff have all the equipment and tools required to build these amazing boats. She’s ably assisted by Christopher Baker, Z-Craft’s Stock Controller.

The company also boasts a couple of new faces like Kobus Duvenhage, Zcraft’s manager who also handles all the sales, Leonie Raschke — Admin and HR — and Clive Van Aswegen who’s in charge of parts.

Clients can rest assured that their boats or jetskis will be in good hands with the great team at Z-Craft.

In 2017 people will be seeing much more of Z-Craft all over the country, so keep your eyes open for further details on their range and the new products they’ll be showcasing in 2017. They will be hosting an open day early in the new year to reveal their flagship boat and introduce customers to the new owners and staff.

For further information on what ZCraft can offer you, phone (035) 7872525, email <info@z-craft.co.za> or visit <www.z-craft.co.za>.

X-RATED! The X-28 Walk Around by X-Boats

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1st January 2017 and 1st April 2017 and win

YOUR NEXT YEAR’S SUBSCRIPTION ABSOLUTELY FREE!

WINNERS:

The following lucky subscribers have each won a year’s free subscription to SKI-BOAT: Herman Schoeman of Newcastle, Alta Vermaak of Rant-en-Dal and Gustav Rautmann of Cape Town. CONGRATULATIONS!

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SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 39

Y

OUR favourite offshore angling magazine, SKI-BOAT, in conjunction with The Kingfisher and the South African Deep Sea Angling Association, is proud to offer all South African skiboaters the unique opportunity to win awards for excellence in angling.

All deep sea anglers who achieve laid down prestigious standards of excellence will be entitled to apply for the KINGFISHER AWARD. Upon ratification by a panel of adjudicators, the angler will receive a handsome certificate, suitably inscribed, PLUS a hand-embroidered cloth badge – both confirming the catch achievement.

Complementing this section is the second award category: 2) Kingfisher Award - Outstanding Catch To satisfy the requirements for this award, anglers can catch any recognised fish and the weight of that fish must equal or exceed certain laid down fish weight:line class ratios.

Awards will be made in the following ratio categories: 3:1 – Bronze Award 5:1 – Silver Award 7:1 – Silver Award 10:1 – Gold Award.

Applies to IGFA line class 1kg , 2kg, 4kg, 6kg, 10kg, 15kg, 24kg, 37kg and 60kg.

Certificates Certificates will carry all the information about the catch (fish, weight, line class and ratio), the successful angler's name and the date on which the catch was made.

Digital emailed photographs should be high-resolution.

RELEASED BILLFISH AND GT (Ignobilis) KINGFISH With the strong trend towards releasing these and other fish, we have decided to amend the Kingfisher Award rules to provide for acknowledgement of all released fish. All we need is a photo of the fish being released or prior to release (e.g. GT held on boat) and the approximate weight of the fish which should fall in line with the stipulated weights set out below.

SPECIES Gamefish: Barracuda Dorado Kingfish (Ignobilis) Garrick (Leervis) King Mackerel (’Cuda) Black Marlin Blue Marlin Striped Marlin

NOMINATED WEIGHT 20kg 15kg 20kg 15kg 24kg 225kg 150kg 75kg

SPECIES Gamefish: Prodigal Son Sailfish (Pacific) Spearfish (Longbill) Spearfish (Shortbill) Tuna (Big Eye) Tuna (Longfin) Tuna (Yellowfin) Wahoo

RULES: 1) There is no restriction on the number of awards which can be applied for.

2) Award-applicants must submit a photograph of the relevant fish with the application form, preferably a photograph of the angler holding the fish.

3) SKI-BOAT reserves the right to use the photograph as it sees fit.

4) Entries must be on the official form which is included in all issues of the magazine.

5) Entries must be received within 45 days of capture.

6) Certificates awarded will be as follows: Meritorious Fish - Gold

Kingfisher Award Application Form I hereby apply for the Kingfisher Award in the category:

Meritorious Fish

Outanding Catch

Tick the appropriate box and supply us with the following information.

Please remember to print clearly.

Applicant's Details: Name: ..................................................................................

Address: .............................................................................. .......................................................... Code: ........................

Tel No: .................................................................................

E-mail: .................................................................................

Club (if member): ....................................................................................

I, the undersigned, agree to abide by the rules of this award.

Signature: .............................................................................

NOMINATED WEIGHT 18kg 35kg 20kg 20kg 30kg 25kg 50kg 20kg

SPECIES Gamefish: Yellowtail Shark (Hammerhead) Shark (Mako) Shark (Thresher) Shark (Tiger) Bottom Fish: Kob (Daga) Musselcracker (Black)

NEW!

NEW!

The Kingfisher Award will be made for fish caught in two sections: 1) The Kingfisher Award - Meritorious Fish To satisfy the requirements for this award, anglers are required to catch a fish included in the list detailed hereunder, equal to or better than the nominated weight.

Tackle used is of no consideration here, the fish's weight being the main criterion.

The different eligible fish and their corresponding minimum nominated weights are as in the accompanying list below.

A gold certificate and a hand-embroidered cloth badge will be awarded for this achievement.

NOMINATED WEIGHT 18kg 200kg 80kg 110kg 200kg 30kg 27kg

Outstanding Catch 3: 1 - Bronze; 5: 1 and 7: 1 - Silver; 10:1 - Gold.

Cloth embroidered badges will be awarded in all categories.

8)

No witnesses of the catch are required. The award is made in the true spirit of sportsmanship and relies on the integrity of the angler to make a just claim.

9) A selection of award winners’ names will be announced in future issues of SKI-BOAT, along with relevant photographs.

10) Award applicants should allow 30-45 days for processing of applicants.

11) There is no charge for Kingfisher Awards.

Meritorious Fish Species: .......................................................................

Weight: ........................................................................

Date of Capture: ..........................................................

Where Caught: ............................................................

Skipper's Name: ..........................................................

Outstanding catch Category applied for (tick appropriate box): 3:1

5:1

7:1

10:1

Species: ......................................................................

Weight: ........................................................................

Line class: ...................................................................

Date of Capture: .........................................................

Where Caught: ...........................................................

Skipper's Name: ..........................................................

OVERHEARD

Launching at the mouth of the Umzimkulu River can be a dangerous exercise if you’re not careful.

FLIPPED! Sooner or later we all have a turn

by Sean Lange

T

HERE are two types of skippers — those who have flipped, and those who are yet to flip. “Flip” is South African for “capsize”, and it used to be a national past time.

Back when we started boating, when boats were as small as dinghies and had single motors, everything was tied down. Like when you’re on a white water raft, we had to ensure there were no sharp edges, no slack lines or ropes, hooks were away, the gaff was tied vas with the rods, anchor, fuel and battery — we had pull start motors in those days. We also had to have a handheld radio because there were no cellphones in the ’80s; that was kept in the capsize bottle — everything at the ready.

And before that even, we all had to undergo extensive capsize training on our “crockaskis”. Flat bottomed, about 14ft long, they had flat wet decks, no sides and a coffin-shaped hatch on which two anglers could comfortably sit and fish. And the power source?

Yip, paddlepower. And on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast where swells can double or even triple in 20 minutes, man, did we get beaten.

Catapulted, held under, tangled, banged,

bruised, bleeding — what a jol!

The graduation to bigger boats and twin motors meant that a flip was far more catastrophic and dangerous. Fuel, propellers, hooks and sinkers all increased the odds of injury, but on we plied! We were motivated by league competitions where we were all fishing for our provinces, and the tournament circuit carried so much cash in prizes that we just had to compete, and compete hard.

Many boats turned over, some with tragic consequences, but through all those years, two decades really, I never had the Sword of Damacles drop on my head until one quiet and early morning at The Umzimkulu River...

Early wake up; I could hear the ocean and I got up to make coffee.

Then I heard a boat sidling up to the jetty.

“Morning!” It was the crew that had just bought a boat from my brother Marc, and it was their first day out. The waves were mean and they wanted me to take a look with them. I agreed.

There were four of us on the boat, with me at the helm, and the boat was flying. A monohull, it performed so well with just a single Yamaha 85hp 2-stroke pushing us. The boat was about 15ft long, and in that configuration it was

like a jet-ski — it could do anything. So solid and reliable in the turns, so predictable, so manoeuvrable, and really punchy.

So, with no qualms, we approached the infamous river mouth with the outgoing tide halfway down and screaming. The cyclone-generated east swell was huge and was forcing waves right into the river. We made another check of the boat and crew, and they were all still eager beavers at this stage. After a few turns to make sure of the steering I made a short run to get her up onto the plane, just as a double-up foamie got bottlenecked between the bridge pylons. We used the first one to ramp completely over the second one and we were in the game.

The channel was wild, with huge chop from the outgoing tide hitting the incoming waves. Foamies were across the bay, but we weren’t banging and were staying on the plane — and so the dance began.

For about ten minutes, which in the surf is an eternity, we got closer to the backline. It was huge. We almost got through and I turned to ask the crew what they thought, but then I noticed their pallor which said,“No way!”

Agreeing completely, because I still would have had to swim in once we SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 43

were out at sea, I started my retreat.

That meant racing along in front of a huge set bearing down on us whilst making the turn to head home.

In my head, I received a thought in the mail — something like “Imagine losing power now”.

And I did.

All power gone, running at about 30 knots parallel now to a breaking wave.

A breaking wave three metres high, stumbling against a formidable outgoing tide. Did I mention the brown water?

We came off the plane and the wave dumped it’s charge a metre from the gunnel. It literally exploded, throwing white water all around us and no one had time to even think about jumping.

And then our miracle happened although I won’t count on it happening again — ever. The wave broke so close to us that the upward force of the water being displaced lifted us up and forward with the breaking wave. In the next instant we were atop the huge foamie, almost surfing it but not quite.

However, we were moving in the right direction, being dragged along just as if we were white water rafting. For a hundred metres this miracle saved us.

But then we were in the soup — the wave left us in the worst possible place other than where we had just come from. I took measure of our situation ...“Cellphone?” Nada. I tried again

44 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

to get the motor going; the first threatening foamie was coming fast. I got the crew on the deck, wave facing gunnel, and wedged in. I have extensive experience in not flipping, and this is one thing you can do so that when the water hits you just get flooded and not flipped. Anything not to flip!

This worked, and in the time it took for my mate Darren, who was watching from The Block, to get the rescue

IMAGINE LOSING POWER NOW ...

AND THEN I DID! squads in, we were chest deep in water, and almost holding the boat. The worst possible place for sharks around here is this river mouth, and the message that went out over the radio was,“Bodies in the water Port Shepstone river mouth Scramble!” Next thing a helicopter came flying in.

We had almost made it by now, but the current was mean, and holding the completely flooded boat upright and stable slowly became impossible. Then, with another double up foamie, we could only watch as she gently rolled over and wallowed closer towards the beach. She was also exhausted — as exhausted as her crew who followed

her in the same way.

By now, a good 30 minutes into the ordeal, the helicopter, two beach rescue-type vehicles, the sharks board, the cops (the crew onboard with me were all policemen), and my good old dad were all at hand. They always call us when things like this happen at the mouth, they just didn’t know it was me causing all the chaos this time!

We all made short work of the recovery, amidst much laughter and a few vows never to return. Before long we were back where it started — the Umzimkulu Marina — where, under Marc’s direction and motivation (a bottle of whiskey) the 85 was stripped to its undies and given the air treatment.

There was sand everywhere, but Marc took us right down to the main bearings and back together in two hours!

She fired up first try.

The post mortem analysis on the incident found that the new owners of the boat had wired the single fuel line behind the battery and I did not pick that up in my hasty assessment of things. I had done a few kilometres, a few turns and was feeling very happy about things, but when we whacked a few waves the battery jumped against its straps slightly and the fuel line snuck in there and stayed. The battery compressed the fuel line, so I was allowed just enough time to get into trouble — and to be saved by a miracle.

THIS AND THAT

SB: This festival has established itself as the “festival that belongs to the anglers” how did this come about?

HK: Our philosophy has always been that we put it together but it is for the anglers and we do not drive this as a money-making exercise. It is our opportunity to bring all the guys and girls, juniors and seniors, who enjoy fishing and family together and give them all a great weekend with the opportunity of winning some quality prizes and being entertained even if you are not fishing. In essence, we give back what we receive. As such our whole approach is to ask how we can make it better and different each year while still offering immense value for money in terms of our entry fee.

Once again I must take this opportunity to thank our many sponsors who each year support this, the biggest offshore festival of its sort in South Africa and probably the world. It is a bit like the sardine run that is referred to as the “greatest shoal on earth”; there is a difference though — sometimes they don’t show, but we do!

HK: Last year we introduced a prize of R25 000 cash for the angler closest to a sealed weight for ’cuda. This is a guaranteed prize and as such will always be won. Last year the sealed weight was around the 13kg mark so it was going to be won by someone. Once again the weight will be such that there will be many fish caught around this weight.

This year the sealed weight prize will be R20 000, but we have added a little twist to this and will add another R10 000 to the winning angler providing he “backs his weight”. We are calling this “More bang for your buck”. On the entry form there will be provision made for an extra R50 payment and if your fish is closest to the pin so to speak we will enhance the payout by another R10 000 — more bang for your buck! This of course will only apply to ’cuda (aka king mackerel).

We of course also have our popular extra value offer of “Back your boat”. If the winning boat puts up R200 extra for backing their winning boat, they will walk away with R10 000 in addition to the magnificent Seacat with twin 60hp two-stroke engines on a galvanised trailer. For the last three years the winners have backed their boats and happily took home the R10 000.

With an average of four anglers a boat, this is a mere R50 per angler extra — it’s a no brainer, you have to go for it!

Once again these details will be included on the entry form.

SB: So what’s new?

SB: Last year you were caught short by

by SKI-BOAT Reporter

W

ITH the Durban Ski-Boat Club Festival only a few months away we contacted the commodore and convenor of the festival, Hilton Kidger, to get an update on the 2017 event.

46 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

the weather not playing ball on the Saturday, but fortunately you had the public holiday on Monday as a fall back day.

HK: You are quite right and we had a few anxious moments, but we canvassed our guests and it was a popular decision to fish the public holiday. This year we are better prepared and the Monday — 1st May — is built in as a backup day.

SB: What else can anglers and spectators look forward to?

HK: On the entertainment side we have been in contact with the guys that do acrobatic flying and we are hoping to put a deal together, sponsored by Wesbank, to get these “men of the sky” to put on a bit of a show. We are also looking at repeating the parachute jump that has been very popular in the past, and the NSRI always do a display of a simulated rescue. This, of course, is subject to the weather and the co-operation of the Transnet helicopter.

As usual we will have plenty of kiddies’, parents’ and grandparents’ entertainment. We’ll also have a full on Pizza Hut on the grass patch that will be very popular in addition to all the other quality, value for money food on offer.

We are limiting entries to 400 boats, so anglers need to enter sooner rather than later, and our guests need to take note of the cut off dates if they want extra tickets in the lucky draws. The prizes this year will be even better than before! See you there!

BOAT REVIEW

SOLID & STYLISH Introducing the Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher

by Onwa Marine

by Erwin Bursik

A

N air of mystique around something always stirs up the interest levels, especially in the world of offshore boating.

When Carry Cat of Jeffreys Bay started building and marketing a new range of cats for the South African market and various models started to be seen at different slipways, predominantly in the Western Cape, comments and opinions started to filter down the grapevine.

My first introduction to the Carry Cat was through Silan Naicker of Onwa Marine based in Durban, who showed me a photograph of their range of craft and voiced his interest in marketing these boats in KwaZulu-Natal.

50 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

I was interested, but my curiosity was really piqued when he told me that an 830 Sportfisher model was coming off the design stage and moulds were being made.

“Now that’s the craft I want to ride,” were my words to Silan, and in view of that he kept me up to date with the craft’s progress on a weekly basis. I liked the original profile of the boat and the more of the production line progress I saw, the more excited I became to see the end product.

Time is always of the essence, and it was a serious race against time to get the first hugely anticipated Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher to Durban before my departure to Sodwana for the 2016 OET. Eventually the Carry Cat arrived

in Durban on its very substantial road trailer a week before the final deadline of Friday 4th November 2016. In those four days the motors had to be fitted and the boat sufficiently finished off to make it seaworthy.

At 11.30am on the Friday the rig entered the parking area of Durban’s Natal Deep Sea Rod & Reel Club. She looked awesome, sporting her basic branding and latest generation Yamaha 150hp four-stroke motors.

Silan and his business partner Nanda Naicker were highly excited, but were quick to point out to me that time constraints had prevented them from presenting the craft in a fully completed and finished state and what they really wanted was my opinion as to its

water performance. Indeed, that was my main aim as well.

The majority of craft emanating from the Cape — south of Port Elizabeth — have a look and feel generated by decades of perfecting a boat that will take the choppy cross seas and wind driven swell for which that long stretch of coast is renowned. Looks are one thing, but I needed to take her out to sea to establish how the Carry Cat 830 would perform in the familiar conditions off Durban.

Fortunately the gale force northeasterly had abated overnight and the moderate south-westerly was filling the low trough thus formed.

When we finally exited the harbour mouth, apart from a big ground swell

building up over Limestone Reef, the protected area off Durban’s beachfront was free of serious chop and ideal for getting to know this craft. There was plenty of the rough stuff out beyond the Bluff’s protection in which to see if she would handle some really rough water with big swells and full of white horses.

We had a great photo shoot that got me all geared up to reboard the Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher and physically feel for myself what I perceived to be the extremely beautiful ride she appeared to be providing. I made the crossing within the confines of Vetch’s and soon had this craft totally under my control, ready to put her through every conceivable manoeuvre to assess her pedigree.

My first trials were undertaken sheltering in the lee of Vetch’s where the spring low tide was forcing a cresting wave to wrap around this big structure.

The craft was being affected by the west wind, and I held her in the protected water with a lot of slow reversing and positioning, getting her ready to jump the cresting wave and get on to the plane to make a quick port turn and run the tube to open water.

She responded well to the forward/ reverse manouevres and I was soon able to position her for take-off. When I saw the break I floored the throttles and this big boat jumped onto the plane very quickly and was easy to control as she performed the required task.

With the big Vetch’s “rock” providSKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 51

ing a fixed reference I could ascertain exactly how long it took me to get her hull out of the water onto the plane and get the speed and directional stability I was looking for. This ability is very important if the craft is to be used in surf conditions with a substantial point break.

Then it was playtime. The big swell wrapping around the Durban South Pier and into the beachfront boils up over Limestone Reef that extends parallel to the beachfront. Steep and sometimes quite nasty, I played in them with the Carry Cat for a considerable time.

Jumping over, running down the face, turning in front of them, I was generally assessing every facet of this craft’s performance under these simulated surf conditions. I was very impressed. I couldn’t get her to cavitate at all and was amazed at her tight turning circle.

The twin 150hp Yamaha four-stroke motors that were swinging standard 17 pitch props were amazing, supplying effortless power immediately on command; they pushed this craft out the hole with surprising speed.

At a later stage I tested her ability to plane on one motor with the dead motor dragging and then tilted up.

With one motor dragging she took a while to get on the plane until she was able to hold at just under 5 000 rpm.

With the one motor tilted up she not only got onto the plane a lot quicker, but also planed easily into the wind and chop at 5 300 rpm.

Having satisfied myself with regard to the performance of the craft’s motors and hull, I set her on a long run testing her performance under various trim settings against rpm readings as I headed out to sea to bring her bow around from a transom sea and wind, through starboard inf luences into a direct head sea of a 15 knot south-westerly wind.

Maintaining a steady throttle setting, I was able to judge both the craft’s stability as well as how she attacked the head sea and how much spray she took during the periods of quartering the rough stuff. I was greatly surprised at her reactions to moderate motor trim.

For a craft of this length, weight and forward structure, it was incredible how she responded to marginal trim setting changes, to quickly obtain lateral stability. With bow up/down trim I was able to cushion her ride when beating into the sea, making her ride very comfortable indeed.

In the rough stuff I put her through the full range of troll speeds and directional patterns, all the while trying to judge how the craft would react, what the crew’s comfort levels were and

what the wake configuration was like.

She did very well and I am sure the Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher that was used during the Billfish 15 000 Marlin Tournament ten days after my review would be an excellent fishing platform.

With the sea swell being relatively large and, as I said, a 15 knot southwesterly blowing, I ran her with the sea at good speed and marginal bow trim.

She ran beautifully and, try as I might, in the moderate conditions I was experiencing I could not get her to drop a sponson.

Many folk talk strongly about the differences between the Cape seas and those we experience off the KwaZuluNatal coast and how certain boat designs are more suited to specific areas. That’s undoubtedly true, but from my experiences in all regions off South Africa’s coastline I venture to say that, with adaptable boat handling skills and motor trim positioning, the vast majority of the so-called local limitations can be overcome.

The Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher’s stylish design includes a good sized helm station and large forward cabin/toilet area that can be redesigned to cater for the owner’s demands whether he’s a dedicated marlin fisherman/tuna hunter who operates off Cape Point or a lighter tackle enthusiast that enjoys

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 53

greater recreational comforts.

As Silan said, the craft I tested is basically a prototype for on water trials so they can fine tune what should be incorporated in the general layout design and what specific requirements need to be reviewed.

I like the semi-enclosed helm station with adequate seating and plenty of under-seat stowage. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loads of free helm space for the skipper and one other crew member upfront to keep him company.

The fishing cockpit area is large, and on the review craft the bait/work station was designed with the option of Bruce Trevathen, Nanda Naiker and Silan Naiker aboard the Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher.

54 â&#x20AC;˘ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

being able to fit numerous tackle drawers which I found practical for billfishing. I also liked the wide walkway up forward which would provide access to outrigger set-ups or, if there were no riggers, access to the bow area.

The aft layout utilises the outmounts incorporated into the sponsons which provides for a large aft central platform that can be used very comfortably and safely for the light tackle angler to manoeuvre a hooked fish around the transom. In the centre of the aft transom area is the livebait well that can be plumbed if required.

This craft was initially being aimed

at the marlin anglers so it did not have fish hatches, but the hulls are designed to incorporate a fish hatch in each sponson.

As I mentioned, this boat was being tested as a prototype, so it would be unfair to remark on internal hardware and finishes, but I had a close look at the finish of the hull itself and admired the moulding and its rigidity.

I am very impressed with the overall ride and handling of the Carry Cat 830 Sportfisher and this hull with its stylish top deck will form a great base which each owner can then choose to finish to his requirements.

Š Angler Publications

Over 300 boats available to choose from.

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Outriggers, rod holders, teak laid cockpit floor, livebait tank in transom, ice-maker, swim platform with ladder, half rear awning, lower helm with helm seat, auto-pilot, GPS fishfinder, bow thrustrers with emergency bilge pump.

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BACK TO BASICS

PLAY BY THE RULES

Photo by Jade Maggs

Guidelines for responsible recreational angling in South Africa

By Bruce Mann, Jade Maggs and Stuart Dunlop (Oceanographic Research Institute)

T

HIS article was written as a contribution towards the development of guidelines for responsible recreational angling in South Africa.

BEFORE YOU GO FISHING Before you get out on the water it is imperative that you have all the necessary boxes ticked to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing at sea. Your vessel must be seaworthy and mechanically sound with all the necessary safety gear.

It must also be correctly registered and the skipper must be licensed, with a copy of the skipper’s ticket kept on board. All anglers on the vessel must be in possession of valid recreational angling permits (Code 01) and at least one person on board, generally the skipper, should have the additional fishing vessel permit (Code 10).

It is always useful to have an up-todate brochure (http://bit.ly/2cXDt2c) on board with the current fishing regulations (size, bag limits and closed seasons). You also need to be aware of any marine protected areas (MPAs) in your vicinity and what activities are allowed within them. If possible have such MPA maps added to your GPS. Before launching, make sure that a

responsible person who is remaining on shore knows roughly where you will be fishing and the approximate time you will be returning. Make sure you fill in the launch register (if available) and do all safety checks, including a radio check, before launching.

WHILE AT SEA Recreational ski-boat angling is a privilege enjoyed by many thousands of anglers in South Africa. As a recreational angler it is illegal to sell your catch and it is ultimately the responsibility of every angler to limit their impact on the marine environment to ensure sustainable fishing in the future. Your motto should be “limit your catch”, not “catch your limit”! If you observe illegal fishing activity taking place while at sea, be responsible and report the offending vessel/activity to the relevant authorities. If the person involved is someone you know, speak to them and try to convince them to refrain from such illegal activity (i.e. apply peer-pressure). If this is unsuccessful, they may be reported to the commodore of the ski-boat club they belong to or the site from which they launched.

Before starting fishing, make sure that you have a suitable container on board in which you can dispose of any unwanted fishing line, bait boxes and other litter. This can then be appropriately discarded once back on shore.

GAMEFISHING In South Africa gamefishing generally refers to trolling, actively casting and retrieving lures and/or drifting with live- or dead baits set in the water column. The target species include a wide range of predatory fish species that live and hunt in the water column including billfish, tuna and mackerels, kingfish, dorado and many others. Most gamefish species tend to be highly mobile (nomadic or migratory) and relatively fast-growing, making them a more sustainable choice than slow-growing, resident reef fish.

Catching gamefish often requires a fair amount of skill and although “Lady Luck” inevitably plays a role, a successful gamefisherman or woman can be justifiably proud of their achievement.

If you and your family/friends enjoy eating fish, there is nothing wrong with keeping a few fish for the pan — as long as you remain within the regulations.

If you decide to keep a fish, make sure that it is quickly dispatched with a solid blow to the head. You may also want to bleed the fish, especially with species such as tuna. It is a good idea to place your fish on ice in the hatch (frozen water in plastic bottles works well) to ensure the fish remains fresh and is not spoiled or wasted. You may gut and clean your fish at sea, but remember no filleting at sea is allowed SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 57

58 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

and the fish must be landed in a whole state. Once you have caught enough fish for your personal requirements, any further fish caught should be carefully released. Keeping more than the bag limit is not just illegal, it is greedy and irresponsible.

RELEASING YOUR CATCH Catch-and-release (C&R) is not as simple as it sounds and there are a number of important points that you should take into consideration.

If you know that you are going to release the fish you catch, it is a good idea to squash the barbs on your hooks.

Doing so inf licts less damage and makes the hooks much easier to remove. If the barbless hook is swallowed into the throat or gills don’t try to remove the hook as this causes more damage. Simply cut the trace as near as possible to the eye of the hook. Use single hooks rather than trebles, and if possible, use circle hooks rather than Jhooks. Circle hooks are a little more costly, but are less often swallowed and normally hook the fish in the “scissors” of the jaw which causes far less damage than when they’re hooked in the gills.

Furthermore, barbless circle hooks are easier and quicker to remove. There is also less chance of a barbless circle hook falling out during the fight compared to barbless J-hooks.

Fighting a fish on light tackle may be fun and require greater skill on the part of the angler, but remember that the longer the fight, the greater the stress placed on the fish, which reduces its chance of survival. Rather use suitably strong tackle to bring your fish in quickly so that it can be released as soon as possible while it still has enough energy to swim away and survive. This increases its chances of survival and helps the fish avoid opportunistic predators, such as sharks.

If you don’t require a photograph or measurement of your fish, such as for a fishing competition, rather keep your fish in the water, remove the hook/s using long-nosed pliers and allow it to swim free. If the fish is exhausted, which is often the case in species which fight very hard such as billfish, move the fish forwards slowly through the water by engaging the motors and holding the fish by the bill or by the lower jaw using a BogaGrip. This allows water to flow freely through the mouth and across the gills. Once you feel the fish power up and start swimming on its own, it can be released.

If you intend releasing a fish, but require a photo or length measurement, the fish can be brought onboard, but make sure that the fish is placed on a soft, moist, cool surface, such as a wet towel or carpet. Lift the fish carefully by holding the fishing line near the head in one hand and supporting the

Whether it’s a marlin or a yellowbelly rockcod that you plan to release, make sure you have the right tools at hand and treat the fish gently to ensure its survival.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 59

fish’s weight under the mid-section with the other hand.

A BogaGrip attached to the fish’s jaw is useful in the case of species with sharp teeth such as king mackerel, barracuda, etc. Avoid putting your hands in the gills of a fish and try to always support the fish with two hands when removing it from the water. If you grip the fish’s mouth with a BogaGrip but don’t provide proper support under the body, you can cause damage to the spine and internal organs.

Your hands and all other surfaces the fish comes into contact with should be kept wet. Take the photo and/or measurement as quickly as possible and then release the fish back into the water. It is recommended that the fish should not be out of the water for more than 60 seconds. If a landing net is used, ensure that it has a knotless mesh to limit abrasion on the fish’s skin and scales. Remember the slime/mucous on a fish is part of its protective covering and removal of slime can result in infection for the fish.

If you are interested in tagging your fish and contributing towards research on our linefish species, you are encouraged to join the Oceanographic Research Institute’s Cooperative Fish Tagging Project . For more information email <oritag@ori.org.za>. As a member of the project you will receive detailed instructions on how to handle

and tag fish correctly.

If you happen to catch a tagged fish, please carefully record the tag number, species, length, how you measured the length (i.e. fork, total or pre-caudal), exact locality where you caught the fish, date, angler name and angler contact details. These details can be reported to the email address above or the phone number on the tag (+27 79 529 0711). You may re-release the tagged fish or you may keep it if it conforms to the regulations. Either way, please be sure to record the above information and send it to ORI. BOTTOMFISHING This is one of the simplest and most commonly practised methods of fishing off a ski-boat. It generally involves using a sinker and trace with one or more hooks attached. A maximum of ten hooks per trace is allowed by law.

The hooks are baited with dead or livebait and dropped to the seabed using a rod and reel or handline. Normally reef areas are targeted for this type of fishing and it can be done either while on anchor or by drifting, if the current is not too strong.

Remember that, after surf-launching, anchoring at sea (especially in a strong current) is one of the most dangerous activities in ski-boating and anchors dragging along the bottom can do a lot of damage to the reefs which largely

consist of delicate filter-feeding communities like corals.

Many of the same rules apply to bottomfishing as discussed for gamefishing above. However, an important difference is that bottomfishing obviously targets fish that live at or near the bottom. Many of these are resident, slowgrowing species with complicated life histories including aspects such as sex change. These attributes make reef fish generally more susceptible to heavy fishing pressure.

Another important difference is that many bottomfish suffer from barotrauma while being brought up to the surface. This is most noticeable when fishing in depths greater than 30m. This is caused by the reduction in pressure as the fish is pulled shallower, which causes the swim bladder to expand and often forces the fish’s stomach to invert and protrude out the mouth. Some fish such as santer/soldier and seventy-four will often bite their own stomachs when being brought up from depths, thus releasing the air pressure, and they are therefore able to swim back down when released. However, there are many other species such as slinger and Roman that are particularly prone to barotrauma and simply float on the surface when released and cannot get back down of their own accord.

There are two known methods to successfully release fish suffering from

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 61

6/0 - 10/0 barbless hook

1-2kg weight

The SeaQualizer helps take the hassle out of safely releasing bottomfish.

Another way of safely releasing bottomfish is to use a downrigger system. When the fish reaches the bottom you simply pull up sharply to release the hook.

barotrauma. One method known as venting, involves inserting a sterile, large gauge hypodermic needle into the fish’s swim bladder to release the air pressure. This requires knowledge of exactly where to insert the needle to hit the swim bladder and minimise the resultant tissue damage, so is therefore not the preferred method. Pricking the inverted stomach is another method used by many fishermen to release the air pressure, but this can result in secondary infection.

The preferred method is to release the fish using a downrigger system.

(See the illustration above.) This consists of a large weight (sufficient to overcome the buoyancy of the fish that is to be released) tied to the eye of an inverted, barbless hook. A line is then attached to the bend of the hook. A commercial product known as the SeaQualizer <http://seaqualizer.com/> can also be used for downrigging and allows the fish to be released at a predetermined depth. Both these systems enable the fish to be gradually taken back down to a depth which recompresses the swim blad-

der, minimising injury to the fish.

Bottomfishing can be a very productive method of fishing and a recreational angler can reach his or her bag limit very quickly for certain species like slinger, santer, carpenter, etc. Because of the barotrauma difficulties associated with releasing unwanted bottomfish, you should discontinue bottomfishing once you have caught enough fish to eat or when you have reached your bag limit. Do not be tempted to replace smaller fish that you have caught and

Gary Thompson using a SeaQualizer to release this Scotsman.

kept with larger fish caught later , known as high-grading. Rather change your focus and try to catch a different species of fish by changing your trace, hook size and/or bait type. Actively targeting different species makes bottomfishing more interesting and exciting.

If you find that you are repeatedly catching prohibited species on a certain reef, rather up-anchor and move to another reef where you can target other less vulnerable species. If you intend on releasing many fish, try fishing on shallower reefs (<30m) where barotrauma is less of a problem. Furthermore, have your downrigger system ready at all times to ensure a quick release.

GETTING BACK TO SHORE Once you’re back on shore, sign in on the launch register and let the responsible person know that you are safely back. Log your catch on the launch register and/or on the CatchReport (http://www.catchreport.co.za/) available via your cellphone or internet. The data collected is essential to enable fisheries scientists to accurately monitor the catches made by recreational anglers and thus ensure sound management of our fish resources.

Before relaxing, make sure that the vessel and fishing equipment is properly washed and stowed. Ensure that the day’s catch is cleaned and stored in a cool place.

Now you can open that first beer and truly appreciate a great day’s fishing!

TIGERFISH

Team Yamaha aboard Mr Ski-Boat (from left); Romeo Leona, Mark Wilson, John Frankiskos and Erwin Bursik.

64 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

by Mark Wilson

E

RWIN Bursik and I were once again fortunate to be invited to participate in the annual Tigerfish Bonanza held at the Pongolapoort Dam. This event is always very popular and last year proved to be no different.

Throughout 2015 and 2016, all over South Africa, there was a dire shortage of rainfall with the dam levels dropping drastically and water restrictions being imposed as a consequence. The lack of rain, especially in the Pongola area, meant the water level in the dam was the lowest I have seen it in over a decade. Video clips and pictures distributed over social media showed some parts of the dam had dried up and the main river supplying the dam had effectively been reduced to a trickle.

After a call to Stefan Kleinhaus, Chairman of the Tigerfish Bonanza committee, voicing my concerns about how the dam level would affect the launch site and the possible effects on catching the elusive tigerfish, my worries were quickly put aside. Stefan assured me that the launch would be as comfortable as it always has been, and those on the water had as good a chance of successfully targeting this species as they always have had in the past.

Stefan was so confident that all would be well that Erwin Bursik, our

skipper, decided to tow his boat to the Bonanza. For the 2016 event Romeo Leone from Yamaha and John Frankiskos made up the rest of our team. The Tigerfish Bonanza committee has wholeheartedly embraced the catch, weigh and release ethic which has only added to the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s popularity. The competition rules also strongly enforce boat safety and careful handling on the dam for the duration of the tournament, the message always being to be safe and enjoy the fishing.

As always Yamaha Marine in conjunction with Hansie Duvenage from D7 Boating dangled the proverbial carrot in the form of the main prize. This year the angler who brought the heaviest tigerfish to the weigh station and then successfully released it would secure themselves an Explorer 465 monohull sporting a single Yamaha 70hp outboard motor.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ 65

To the winners go the spoils. Jonathan De Vos and his right hand man received their prize from Romeo Leone (Yamaha South Africa) and Hansie Duvenhage (D7 Boating).

The fishing took place on 23rd and 24th September, with weigh-in taking place at 3pm on the second day, and the prize-giving commencing at 6:30pm the same evening. Those of us aboard Mr Ski-Boat employed every known tactic to secure ourselves that elusive winning tigerfish, but it was not to be ours. I have come to know well the frustration of being anchored within casting distance of another boat employing identical tactics and they go vas every ten minutes while you look on with envious eyes.

As they say, “that’s why they call it fishing not catching!”

Romeo correctly lamented that, had this been a Barbel Bonanza our team would have been in the pound seats, with both Erwin and John managing to wrestle healthy specimens on board.

Jonathan De Vos holds up the winning tigerfish of 5.41kg.

John Frankiskos with one of the barbel he caught.

The meritorious anglers who featured in the top ten all walked away with their arms full of prizes. The following anglers deserve congratulations for their catches: Jonathan De Vos . . . . . . . . . . .5.410kg Natalie Henning . . . . . . . . . . .4.430kg Nkhosi Nathi Mahundla . . . . .4.220kg Mike Grimsdell . . . . . . . . . . . .3.550kg Johan Ferreira . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.525kg Alexander Smit . . . . . . . . . . . .3.500kg Henning Reinstorf . . . . . . . . . .3.485kg Helgaardt vd Westhuizen . . . . .3.460kg Wynand Henning . . . . . . . . . .3.385kg Brandt Richter . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.365kg

Although we didn’t have much luck, judging by the healthy tigerfish weighed in and the many others returned immediately to the water as they weren’t worth the run to the weigh station, these predators certainly are there for the taking — if you know how and where to target them that is.

There are some anglers who always seem to shine at any given event and Jonathan de Vos is one such individual . He managed to bag a beauty that weighed an impressive 5.41kg — a worthy tigerfish by anyone’s standards.

68 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you and congratulations to the entire Tigerfish Bonanza committee who get it exactly right year after year, and also to the volunteers who helped facilitate the launch and retrieval of an armada of fishing vessels without incident. Thank you for the absolute professionalism you displayed.

I can highly recommend this Bonanza as a fantastically organised event with great prizes, and if you haven’t yet had the privilege of experiencing it, make a plan to get there next year. We’ll certainly be back there in a quest to catch that elusive tigerfish that carries the keys to a new boat in its impressive dentures.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ 69

MY BEST DAY’S FISHING YET!

by Alex Tyldesley (11)

I

LOVE to fish, and although I began fishing at a very young age, I only started deep sea fishing last year. My first fish was a pinky and my first deep sea fish was a 5kg black musselcracker. My best day’s fishing yet has to be 3 September 2016.

My stepdad, Russell, woke me up at 4.15am to go fishing. We loaded the rods, hooked up the trailer and made our way down to Natal Deep Sea Rod and Reel Club. On arrival we were joined by Russell’s friend Grant. We launched the boat and made our way through Durban harbour and out to sea. When we got out of the harbour I could not believe how flat the sea was, it was amazing.

We went south to a very deep ledge to fish for red steenbras, but all we caught in the deep were green-eyed sharks. There seemed to be nothing else biting, so we decided to try a bit shallower.

Before long I was hooked up. The fish pulled very hard and it took me a while to get it to the surface. We all peered into the water, only to see another shark. We pulled the shark onto the deck and, to my surprise, it spat out an octopus. All the brown skin on the octopus was gone, so it looked like a ghost. I asked if I could use the octopus as bait and Russell said it would be a great bait, so he hooked it twice through the head with a circle hook and I was instructed to “Go down!”

I sent my line down and as I hit the bottom my rod bent double and the fish took off on a strong run. I started to “pump and wind” as I’ve been told to do, but it seemed like every time I got a bit of line the fish took a bit more! My arms were still a bit wobbly from pulling in the shark, but when I announced that I might need a bit of help, I was told that on this boat we pull our fish and I should tell the skipper when I was finished playing with it and he would cut my line. When I heard that, I thought I’d better jack up and pull this thing!

The current was screaming, but the fish finally started lifting in a way that was “fishy in a good way”. Eventually the fish popped up and I had to wind just a few more times to get it behind the boat. When I saw the shape of a fish I was so happy that it was not another shark.

Russell had to stand in front of me to gaff it so I still didn’t know what fish it was, but when he called for a second gaff I knew this was serious. Russell pulled the massive fish onto the deck and I screamed as I saw my 15kg amberjack! I only weigh 30kg myself. I still can’t believe I actually caught that fish!

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72 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

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SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ 75

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HE 16th Cape Town International Boat Show closed its doors on 16 October 2016 with consensus from exhibitors that it was a success.

“The leisure boating industry has been under stress for several years now and a number of companies have unfortunately closed shop in the past 12 months, but exhibitors were upbeat about the 2016 show,” said boat show

organiser Dana Whiting.

“The sector has become quite niched, but the quality of visitor to this year’s event ensured that sales were taking place. In fact, one of the largest brokerages in Cape Town insisted this was the best year ever for their operation.”

In previous years the boat show was split between the V&A and the CTICC, but for 2016 it was consolidated in one venue with a large on-water

component and dry land exhibits within a large marquee alongside the water.

This resulted in all visitors enjoying the entire show, whereas in the past the logistical challenges of moving between two venues meant that some people never made it to both.

“The quality of boats and other exhibitors on offer this year was excellent,” said Dana. “Aside from the highend of the market where the Cape SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 77

Town Boat Show has an almost continental monopoly, there was also plenty for the new entrants to the boating world to feast their eyes on. Many of the exhibitors are not only leaders in South Africa, but also produce craft that compete on the global stage. It’s a real privilege to have these manufacturers as regular participants.”

A popular feature of this year’s show was the opportunity for members 78 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

of the public to get their feet wet. The protected nature of the V&A Waterfront Marina made it possible for youngsters to take advantage of SA Sailing’s outreach programme where they could take out a dinghy with an experienced hand at the helm and feel the thrill of the sport. The stand-up paddle boards were also put to good use.

“Establishing the show at one place was a positive move. Not only did it

make the logistics easier for the exhibitors, it also helped the visitors.

The V&A Waterfront is a fantastic location, because once visitors had spent a few hours viewing the boats they were able to nip over to the mall, grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. We are already talking to the V&A about how we can make the event even bigger in the coming year,” concluded Dana.

MARKETPLACE

FAST, POWERFUL, NAVIGATION

I

F you’re looking for the finest all-in-one colour LCD unit available, set a course for your nearest Furuno dealer. The fully integrated GP1870F GPS, fishfinder and chart plotter with AIS integration capabilities is the perfect addition to your console. Compact, waterproof and durable, this unit delivers highly accurate data and crystal-clear pictures on its 7” wide format, colour bonded LCD screen.

Fast, powerful and easy to use, the GP1870F incorporates the best of Furuno’s legendary line of chart plotters and adds a whole new set of user-friendly features.

The GP1870F features an internal antenna for ease of installation. It’s dual-range display allows you to view both short and long ranges of your chart simultaneously in a split-screen presentation. Furuno’s RotoKey interface allows for simple and stress-free operation — simply turn the RotoKey for a finely stepped zoom control or press the knob for full access to the GP1870F controls.

The LCD screen allows for viewing from virtually any angle, even while wearing polarised sunglasses, plus the screen is bonded to ensure fogging-free operation.

The GP1870F supports C-MAP 4D by Jeppesen charts, a versatile all-in-one charting solution that gives users of Furuno’s GP1870F specific content and features needed to optimise their time on the water. The C-MAP 4D charts provide cruisers and sailors with standard vector chart content plus dynamic raster chart presentations, 3D views, satellite images, exclusive Easy Routing and more. In addition,

C-MAP 4D empowers the Furuno GP1870F with a range of additional detail, content and features developed especially for serious coastal and offshore fishermen.

The GP1870F incorporates a powerful 600W/1kW Furuno fishfinder, and introduces a host of new features. Post-Processing Gain Control allows you to view changes to the Gain setting immediately for all returns on the screen, making it easier than ever to dial in your fishfinder for local conditions, while the White Line feature shows you to spot fish lying on or near the bottom at a glance.

Connecting the Furuno FA30 AIS receiver to your GP1870F provides real-time information about AIS-equipped vessels to your AISready chart plotter. The information is graphically presented, allowing you to monitor and avoid AIS equipped vessels in your area. The information that the FA30 receives includes the vessel name and call sign, position, course, speed over ground, and other useful information. Since AIS targets can be received even if they are not within line of sight, the FA30 enhances situational awareness in congested waterways, limited visibility or heavy sea conditions, and gives the navigator much more information about AIS equipped vessels.

Whether you’re fishing, diving, navigating or anchoring, knowing bottom type is a major advantage for virtually any boater. The advanced signal processing of the GP1870F’s fishfinder provides a graphical display of the water column and objects in the water, in addition to showing composition of the seafloor.

When connected to an appropriate transducer, the Bottom Discrimination feature provides a graphical display showing the characteristics of the seafloor as either mud, sand, gravel or rock.

The Accu-Fish feature is a revolutionary fish size assessment function that can tell you the approximate size of the fish below your boat. Fish symbols appear on the screen, along with the size of the fish or the depth where it is. Accu-Fish signal processing blends the high and low frequencies to depict fish targets of all types simply, clearly and distinctly.

Now fishermen can clearly and easily distinguish big billfish around a bait ball, or see through bait and trash fish on the surface to target “the big one” below.

For more information contact Radio Holland South Africa on 0861 123 555 or email <info@radioholland.co.za>.

INTRODUCING THE DAIWA LAGUNA

T

HE new Laguna 5Bi series is the smoothest highest performing budget reel that Daiwa have ever released. Its features, durability and ultra smooth performance are second to none. Innovations include Twistbuster II, Silent Oscillation and Infinite anti-reverse; this reel also employs five ball bearings, a high speed retrieve ratio and Daiwa’s Digigear II gearing system for ultra smooth rotation and feel. The ABS spool has a maximised core diameter and reversed taper meaning there is 100% useable line, no “dead” line buried deep in the spool, so you can fill it with line right up to the edge of the spool lip without fear of tangles.

The rearward taper of the spool’s core helps prevent tangles caused by excessive loops of loosely wound or stiff line falling forward from the spool on the cast. This huge diameter spool lets line flow freely in larger coils and produces less line memory coil. The result is less casting friction for longer, easier casting. For ultra smooth cranking power Laguna uses Daiwa’s Digigear II system; this gear design ensures a perfect mesh between the ultra-tough drive gear and pinion gear for ultra-smooth rotation and optimized speed, power and durability.

These reels are available at tackle stores countrywide and at The Kingfisher in Durban.

For more information call (031) 368-3903, or visit their website <www.kingfisher.co.za>.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 83

84 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

CAUDWELL UNVEILS 300HP V6 OUTBOARD DIESEL MARINE DRIVE

M

IKE Beachy Head, CEO of Caudwell Marine recently unveiled a world first in marine propulsion systems at a dazzling launch in Cape Town.

“Conceived and developed in Cape Town, with strong international supply and technology relationships, the South African and African launch of this product will herald the start of Caudwell Marine’s progression toward full global penetration of the commercial, recreational and militar y marine markets, said Beachy Head.

“Some seven years in development, Caudwell Marine has thus far attracted over US$60-million in foreign investment and created over 100 new jobs during the development phase. During production ramp up, this job figure is expected to treble. It will also provide the local supplier base with growth and attract further foreign investment. The global marine market segment for diesel propulsion is one of the fastest growing markets currently and is worth in excess of US$1-billion.

“Although there have been some improvements to marine propulsion systems over the past 20 years, there have been few fundamental changes. This is why we have developed our innovative and revolutionary diesel marine propulsion systems, designed for the boating market in the 16- to 40 foot range.

“The new Caudwell Marine Axis-Drive propulsion systems will revolutionise the way that marine propulsion systems are designed.

An exhaustive testing regime continues in

W

South Africa and demonstrates that the technology will significantly enhance boat performance with improved handling and safety, corrosion protection, low power loss, lack of vibration and a host of other features,” he added.

Caudwell Marine’s 300hp Axis outboard diesel package is the first of its kind in the world and utilises a state-of-the-art 4-stroke V6 300 VGT engine with Turbo Emission Intelligence,Axis Drive efficiency principles and the latest generation drive-by-wire controls.

Not only does this extraordinary package look amazing, but it is literally unlike any other outboard offering. Mated to an adapted Axis Drive gear case arrangement, the steering function is actuated only at the lower unit. This means that you have the steering benefits inherent in the Axis Drive Trim Down Geometry, banking your vessel into turns and providing phenomenal high speed maneuverability. The engine pods themselves do not move around on the back of your vessel in order to effect steering. This improves user safety, enables neater and more refined control wiring and piping configurations and gives OEM’s greater f lexibility in terms of deck design and utilisation.

Caudwell Marine’s 300hp turbocharged Axis Outboard Diesel is available in counter rotation and is fully compatible with Caudwell Marine’s Dynamic Vessel Control system, which is nearing development completion, and will allow users easy manoevring in close quarters.

This is made possible by the precision independent digital control of each twin Axis Drive and engine installed, allowing the user to put the vessel on the right spot, every time.

Caudwell Marine has invested heavily in this project and is committed to becoming an export powerhouse for South African industry and will be showcasing its technology around the world in coming months. For more information contact Caudwell Marine on <info@caudwellmarine.com>.

KEEP YOUR COOL

ILD Coolers aren’t just built tough, they’re built smart to overcome all of Africa’s challenges. Their one-piece roto-moulded construction from polyethylene means the box won’t fade or go brittle from exposure to the sun, while 50mm thick walls and a 75mm thick lid offer superior insulation from outside temperatures. The freezer-grade silicon rubber gasket and interlock lid system keep the air out and the frost in. Military-style rope handles and stainless steel hinges eliminate typical weak points that might break, and locking points and anchor latches mean you can secure your chow so that nothing — not even a hyena — will get in.

Other noteworth features include a built-in bottle opener, tape measure and tie-down slots, all of which add up to one thing — they’re made to work no matter what, holding your precious ice for longer than you will believe possible.

Wild Coolers are available in three sizes — 40, 60 and 80 litres — and come with a five year warranty. For further information visit <www.wildcoolers.com> or email <info@wildcoolers.com>.

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 85

CUMMINS’ QSK95 HITS SA MARKET

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UMMINS Inc, a global leading manufacturer of diesel engines for the marine industr y is proud to introduce the QSK95 marine engine to the South African market. With ratings from 3 200hp to 4 200hp (2386-3132 kW), the V-16 cylinder engine is the most powerful high-speed 95-litre engine available in its class.

“The innovative QSK95 engine allows us to meet our marine customers’ increasing power requirements, while the engine’s vast capabilities ensure we can successfully enter into new markets within Africa,” commented Andy Pilkington, S e g m e n t Director Marine Oil & Gas Business, Africa.

“This technologically advanced engine is designed to exceed the performance of comparable 20-cylinder high-speed engines and, compared with equivalently powered medium-speed engines, it is far more compact and more cost-effective.”

The QSK95 offers flexibility in power configurations for main propulsion, auxiliary, genset and diesel electric applications, and provides an excellent solution for hard-working marine vessels such as tugs, inshore and offshore patrol vessels, emergency search and rescue vessels, commercial fishing boats, passenger ferries, superyachts, offshore support vessels and crew boats.

This engine enjoys low fuel consumption due to its highly efficient fuel injection, air handling and exhaust systems, and its efficient power cylinder design. The Cummins Eliminator oil filtration system eliminates the need for lube oil filters, while on-engine fuel filter replacement cartridges make for more costeffective maintenance and disposal. The QSK95 was designed for ease of service with no mid-life major ser vice event, long life-to-overhaul, and common parts to other engine platforms, which equates to best-in-class total cost of ownership.

Coming on the heels of a recent announcement regarding Cummins first QSK95 marine installation, the state-of-the-art engine is now available for integration into the local marine market.

Shipyards in South Africa that focus on local and international markets will find that the QSK95 complies with necessary local requirements. It offers excellent value and is covered by a comprehensive one-year unlimited hour warranty, backed by the Cummins global dealer service network.

“The QSK95 will allow Cummins to serve higher power nodes in the marine industry, as well as the rail, mining and power generation industries,” says Pilkington. “It is our intention to support all our current and prospective customers in the various market segments with a range of products to suit their needs.”

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SMALLS PROPERTY FOR SALE

OET Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Onwa Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

PROPERTY FOR SALE

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SHELLY BEACH — Beachfront house for sale. Includes direct beach access, threestorey building rights, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, lounge, diningroom, kitchen, huge patio with outside pub and braai, scullery/laundry and storeroom, huge tackle/hobby room, maids’ quarters as well as plenty of space to park boats,tractors etc.

Price: R2.5-million Contact: Clint on 083 789 2335 or email <glacier@wol.co.za>.

Southern Power/Volvo Penta . . . . . . . . . . . .84 Stealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

SHELLY BEACH — Beachfront unit (Santika) for sale. Ground floor unit with private garden, upmarket finishes, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, lounge, diningroom, kitchen, huge patio with built-in braai and single lock up garage.

Price: R2.25-million Contact: Clint on 083 789 2335 or email <glacier@wol.co.za>.

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DEADLINE FOR THE MARCH/APRIL 2017 ISSUE OF SKI-BOAT MAGAZINE IS 20th JANUARY 2017 BOOK YOUR SPACE NOW.

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Phone JOAN on 031 5722289 or email <adverts@mags.co.za>

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SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 • 87

BUSINESS CLASSIFIEDS

88 â&#x20AC;¢ SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

DIRECTORY

SKI-BOAT January/February 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ 89

RAPALA LIP

Hello, my name is Jane and I’m a

FISHING WIDOW

I

CAN’T remember exactly when I became a fishing widow, but I have a feeling it was at birth. I could also blame it on genetics I suppose — I am the youngest of five children and grew up in a fishing family with fishing boats going on fishing holidays.

Growing up as a ski-boat club rat, I later made more use of the bar with my brothers than the boat over the weekends. Looking back, I was doomed from the start.

Soon after we began dating I realised that fishing was so high up on my future husband’s agenda that I couldn’t book weekend getaways at destinations further than 5km from any coastline or 10km from any launch site, and no social events could be confirmed more than five days in advance in case the weather was good and he could fish on that day. I used to resort to booking evening functions instead of lunches, and then he went and got his night rating! My Rapala Lip began to show more regularly.

Eventually I got used to my dirty washing basket smelling like a bait box and I learned that “washing the boat at the club” didn’t mean just that. Rather, the guys were watching it being washed while they compared fishing tales over a good few beers. The boat stays at our house and often you’ll get the tell-tale whiff of a dead mozzie trapped in the scupper as you walk past. You’d think after “washing” it for four hours this wouldn’t happen.

Mysterious white shopping bags kept turning up around the house, filled with various hooks and lures of all sizes. “Didn’t you buy hooks last weekend?” I’d ask. “Yes, but those were 8/0 and now I need 9/0,” he’d reply. Then, by the Wednesday the bag was misplaced, tucked away in some corner cupboard or in the abyss that’s our garage, so another trip to the tackle shop was required, and so it went on…

90 • SKI-BOAT January/February 2017

Last word from the ladies Let’s not forget the horrid surprise of getting a trace wire in your foot because the lounge is a minefield of hooks and lures and the coffee table has become the tackle bench. At one stage I tried to find the receipts and attempted to negotiate that I get the equivalent funds to buy clothes, but that didn’t last; my darling soon learnt to unpack the packets and get rid of all evidence.

In one of my attempts to limit the damage being done to my lifestyle I refused to make boat lunches. I even went as far as getting that documented on video as part of my speech at our wedding. On the six occasions in our 16 years together that I’ve relented and made boat lunches, the wind blew gales the next morning so I’m clearly the jinx and I’ve told my darling he’d better not chance it. I can live with the dropped lip from his side once in a while.

Then the competitions started: interclubs, inter-zonals, nationals, friendlies — not so friendly sometimes — overs and unders etc. I spent my weekends driving to various clubs around the province to support my man, sleeping in tents at Sezela or staying in dodgy houses filled with snoring fishermen and rising early to send him off lovingly at the launch. I would watch them with my heart in my throat until they were safely through the backline. Then all the boats are gone and suddenly you realise that you’re just a lonely poepol standing on the beach with a travel mug at an ungodly hour of the morning. Back to bed then…

I was starting to see a pattern forming ... As the saying goes, “If you can’t beat them, join them”, and I tried that

many times. I even won the Top Lady prize at the Pennington Couta Classic one year and came second in the original Umhlanga Festival. However I paid a steep price, hanging onto the gunnel many times waiting for a vital organ to follow what once was dinner into the ocean below. I tried every sea sick remedy known to man but nothing worked.

Eventually I gave up.

Another sure sign it was time to step back was when I found myself standing around the braai talking about tying a Bimini Twist and what lures were really working this season. Red flag!

Rock and surf angling has always been more my style — feet on solid ground and holding the pole for hours on end. Maybe I love it so much because I seem to have my mother’s luck and can catch something in even the worst conditions and with a makeshift trace. Often my darling will stand miles away from me out of pure embarrassment because of the trace I’ve made myself, but when I land my fourth fish he quickly comes over to find out what I’m using.

It hasn’t been all bad; we’ve had some amazing holidays (often as bycatch of a fishing trip) and we’ve seen incredible things in the ocean.

Now we’re introducing the next generation to the sport. Our daughter has her father’s iron stomach but, much to his horror, feels that fishing is just not glamourous enough for her. Our son, like me, will never find his sea legs so prefers to hold pole with his mom on the beach.

I’ll always have a natural attraction to the ocean and will probably get on a boat again because I just can’t help myself. I also understand his addiction to fishing because I’m equally as addicted to horses — and I have also learnt to unpack the packets from the tack shop and get rid of the evidence….