A FISHERMAN'S TALE

Find a fisherman and you find many a great story. When the fisherperson happens to be the Engineer and the other, the Bosun, then you are guaranteed a ripping tale.

Many years ago when fisherpersons were made of steel, a competition started onboard Leeuwin. The Bosun and Engineer pitted against each other with their fishing implements of choice. Both propped up on the Poop deck and the competition was cast. Who could capture the windward side, who the Lee, hand lines or rod and reel, poppers or deep divers, wind speed and sea state. So many variables; it needs a cool head to comprehend and then act on all this information. For the last 2 years Alf and Ange have gone head to head in the latest instalment of the fishing competition.

“Big Bertha, Big Bertha, Big Bertha” this is the call to action over the PA. Scrambling from the darkest depths of the bilges the cry of “Out my way”, “Move, Move, Move” are heard below decks. While in the sunny heights of the upper top mast shouts of “Excuse me, Pardon Me , Thank you” fall to deck. Within moments both Alf and Ange are accounted for on the Poop deck ready for action. Which line has the massive fish taken? Ange pulling on her gloves, Alf buckling on his rod holder and grabbing his rod & reel. Both checking their line; low and behold the rarest of occurrences, a double hook up.

Now the whole crew swing into action, Captain Sarah takes the watch and control of the ship. The Mate Slaven ready with the gaff, either Engineer or Bosun mates ready with fish buckets, Purser ready with the all important camera and Aidan the Chef down in his galley sharpening his knives ready to prepare that night’s feast.

- Alf Green