Outer Sounds Trip
Saturday 29th November 2003
A six o’clock start saw Nigel, Sean, John, Rick and I assembled at North Road ready to venture of to the East Coast for a spot of cray hunting. Eight o’clock we were loading up Rick’s boat at Waikawa, after a stop off at Picton Bakery for coffee and pies. A smooth run out to the Tory entrance after passing the “Santa Regina”, Strait Shipping’s Wellington/Picton vessel. This ship hauls along at quite a reasonable speed, about 25 mph, and with very little wake.
At the entrance to the channel a vote was taken, and the decision was made to head south towards Jordy Rocks. However, on reaching our destination we decided to leave this site until later as slack water was still a few hours away. We then headed for Lucky Point where Sean, Nigel and I kitted up and descended towards the masses of crayfish! At the bottom the current was strong enough for us to change our planned direction and go with the flow. The country was very good for our fevered friends, and it wasn’t long before a couple were bagged. Lucky for the bugs our take was only one each for Sean and I, and a couple for Nigel. That’s why it’s called Lucky Point!
A little further south and John and Rick leapt in. They also moved with the current, and upon return to the boat the take-home bug numbers increased.
As the tide was still running a move further south saw us at Bushy Point. Sean, Nigel and I were once again into the water. Viz a little less than the last spot, but plenty of weed and good rocks for bugs to live around, and lots of fish life! About 30 minutes catch bags were emptied; the count was boosted by several more good bugs.
As slack water was still a wee way away John suggested going to xxxx xxxx ( a secret location), as he had been there before with excellent results. Rick and John were dispatched into the water, and they descended on their hunt. Rick ascended first with John staying a little longer to gather from a good rock he had located. Both returned with good reports of plenty of bugs of all sizes. The big fellas hiding at the back of the holes, with the littlies at front. Sean was still short of his quota so he was dispatched to the same spot to try his luck. He returned triumphant, and after double checking sizes we headed into a bumpy chop back to Waikawa for a debrief, and then home.
A very enjoyable days diving with good results. Thanks John for sharing your secret spot, and thanks Rick for the use of your boat. See you guys at our next dive on the 14th December.