Had an unexpected trip invite up to wagoe for a quick weekend trip where ballooning was the mission. We got to camp and set up late thursday night. The cold conditions soon disappeared and we were greated to light Easterly Winds and clear skys. Four balloons were soon between 180 and 400m off the beach, and the gardies were skipping nicely. The first day was dull to say the least. After 5 hours of Easterlys, all that was dragged up the sand was a small Reef Shark, and countless NW Blowies. As the wind swung South, it was back to the drawing board and preparing for the next day. Even the bottom fishing was closed down, with mullet and herring strips left untouched for hours. Moods were positive at sunrise, and again 5 balloons whistled out to the danger zone, and all eyes were fixed on the splashdowns of the baits. The first hookup came at about 10am, just as the sun was really starting to warm the water. Garfish was on the menu for this mackie, as a whole gardie was down his throat, and the fight was fairly tame. The first fish monkey was off our back and we were all hopeful that this was a sign of things to come. At 16kg the Mackie was not big, but was in pristine condition and nice and fat through the body. no longer than 20min later, the second hookup came, and a battle with the shore break ended the fight and another Shark was lost. That hookup was the last of the trip, excluding NW Blowies, and the rogue Mackie landed was the only saving grace from calling this trip a failure. Never the less it was good to get away and put some hours in. Next trip will be within the month so shall keep you posted.

Zac Davies

Dunsborough OUtdoor Sportz