We welcomed 10 very excited guests onto the atoll this week, including good friend and familiar face Gerald, six new friends from Norway and as well as two new friends from South Africa. With the new moon spring tides expected towards the end of the week we were confident of receiving an influx of cool blue water into the atoll and onto the flats. So with the weather looking stable and clear skies being the order of the day, we were optimistic that there will be a couple of fish around.
An area called we called “Wrasse Hole” fired during the early part of the trip, particularly on the first day when the GT’s were everywhere. So much so we would walk into a feeding or resting stingray and his companion every 10 meters or so. This set the tone and soon the anglers were super focused as a sense of urgency prevailed. The first day was therefore a taste of what the atoll has to offer. As the week developed the GT’s spread out across the atoll, but despite this shots presented themselves to our eager guests. Granted not all fish were converted but that’s the way it goes with GT fishing. They are tough fish and never to be underestimated. Almost all of our anglers however managed to capitalise on some of the shots presented to them opportunities, with 13 fish being landed during the week. The highlight was undoubtedly the 108 cm fish landed by Jon.
The guests had also made it clear that another preferred target species would include Farquhar’s famous bumphead parrotfish. The guys were in luck as the shoals provided consistent action and opportunities, the blue paddle tails enticing our anglers time and again. Old friends, Tor Inge and Jon both managed to hook and land good specimens on the same day which is an incredible achievement and one which will no doubt remain in their memory banks for years to come. Furthermore, Tor and Vidar both landed exceptional bumpies, their fish measuring 108 cm and 109 cm respectively. Despite only four being landed, the amount of enjoyment/desire/frustration that was evident on every guest’s face when fishing for bumpies suggests they will be back to set the score straight!
In addition large numbers of triggerfish showed themselves to us this week, their tails scattered across the atoll as they scoured the crunchy coral for something to snack on. Despite healthy numbers and opportunities they proved fickle showing once again why they are such a prized catch in the Indian Ocean. Our anglers were undeterred however and with patience came reward, both Vidar and Gerald being rewarded with two specimens that were tricked by their crab patterns, which were well presented to them. Under these conditions this species is often the most rewarding species to target.
A major highlight during the week was the 153 cm barracuda that was taken by Paul. After witnessing the “croc” chase down and devour a bonefish on a white sand flat he made a quick cast right in front of the fish. The fish charged and bit the fly clean off before the set could even take place. The next rigged rod was taken and another cast was made, the fish immediately eating again. Incredible to witness! This time the fly was set in the corner of the mouth and the monster seared off in a series of grey hounding leaps across the flat. Thanks to some careful boat and rod work guest and guide managed to land the trophy fish without any wire at all. A truly memorable fish and experience!
In addition to the fish mentioned above, countless grouper, snapper etc made for a very enjoyable trip. The offshore fishing too fired in a large way, some really large GT’s being the highlight. All in all a very fun week to be a part of, with great new friends made!
Until next week
The Farquhar guide team
For more information on Farquhar Atoll please contact Peter McLeod or call +44 (0)1980 847389.