Feeding Frenzy

Author: Carl

Category: Trip Reports

Created on Tuesday, 21 December 2010 08:01

Written by Carl Holland

After a very poor nights sleep and a slow start to the day I made my way to Mackay harbour to chase the mackerel and tuna that have been present in numbers over the last couple of weeks. Heading out of the harbour I was disappointed to see no action at all and spent the first hour trolling and casting around Slade rock. As I drifted past the rock casting a blade lure I finally saw some birds diving in the distance. Putting the rod away and unfurling the sail I gave chase. As I got closer something didn't look right but I couldn't make out what was creating the fuss. When I got within casting distance I fired the blade off but didn't get any touches. The action was spasmodic at best and i still couldn't see what fish were there.

As the wind pushed me away from the school I re set the sail to catch back up and thats when I saw the fins. First there were 3 or 4 black tip sharks then a larger bronze whaler all scooting along the surface. I furled the sail and got the camera out to try and get some pics, but most of the action was below the surface and the water quality was poor due to rain and big tides. 

Sitting down I could see very little but when i stood up I could see a large brown mass under the water and numerous sharks having a go at what ever it was. I used my Go pro camera that is mounted on my paddle to film under the water, but the clarity was so poor nothing showed up. I patiently waited for the sharks to surface again but the wind kept moving me away. 

Sitting back down I set the sail and sailed over the sharks but they had moved deeper and I could hardly see anything. Just as I passed over there was a huge splash behind me. I turned my head so quickly I nearly got whiplash only to see the tail of a large beast disappear under the water. I kept searching but soon the birds dissipated and all went quiet. I spent a couple of more hours out there for nix and headed in as the storm clouds gathered. I was packed up and driving out of the harbour when the first rain hit.