Travelling slower than storm Amy

Like many bass anglers, I was out trying my luck during Storm Amy. I really enjoy fishing in storms because, when you get it right, it’s exhilarating. It’s surprising just how strong a wind you can fish in when you’ve got access to the right beaches.

That said, I got it a bit wrong last night. The wind was more westerly than expected, and I didn’t really need the stepped-up rod, especially with me holding it for over three hours. I was also using a larger 6000-sized reel loaded with mono, thanks to some recent braid-knot issues.

I arrived and started fishing around 7 o’clock. I walked to my mark and cast out half a mackerel with a short lob, about 10 yards, then stood with my back to the wind. The rod felt like a broomstick - heavy and stiff - especially when paired with the mono-filled 6000-sized reel. Through the mono, it felt as though I wasn’t really in contact with what was happening out there.

After about 30 minutes, I started getting some attention. Then came a lovely knock and run. I engaged the freespool, felt the line tighten, and fish on. The fight was different after years of using braid. I struggled to feel where the fish was, but it was a spirited tussle in the crashing waves and undertow. Not the size I was after (around 3 lb), but very welcome nonetheless.

As the night went on, I had a few aborted runs, which I assumed were from schoolies, and the weed became a real pain. It meant I couldn’t fish as close as I wanted. I waited until high tide, but after a spell of no action, I decided I’d had enough of battling the weed.

Driving home along a deserted road, I was stopped by the police for speeding. They were apologetic as they issued me with a ticket, but I reckon I was travelling slower than the gusts of wind that threatened to blow it away.