Hi all
Firstly, a quick introduction... I've been lurking on the forum for a while now, reading all the posts and have to thank everyone for sharing their adventures. I got into shore based angling last year, inspired by a neighbour and a love of fish suppers!
Living down here on the Lleyn I realised it was about time to go and catch my own. Years ago, as a youth back in my native Yorshire, I was obsessed by coarse fishing but never caught much.. but saw a lot of wildlife. This developed into obsessive compulsive birding and and a love of nature. Can't say much has changed i.e. catch little, see a lot! :g: - with my recent conversion to sea fishing - I do it as much as an excuse to sit by the sea and watch the gannets, terns etc.
Which brings me to this post. I have been interested in cetaceans for a while and have seen a few species (Bottle-nose Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and the rare Risso's Dolphin) in these parts when birding/fishing. I lived briefly on Ynys Enlli/Bardsey Island a few years ago and did a lot of volunteering for the
Bardsey Bird and Field Observatory who have been studying the island and it's surrounding waters since 1953. They publish an annual report of what's been seen and are also working closely with the
Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society to monitor the waters of Cardigan Bay for these fascinating marine mammals.
I'm sure these organisations would be really interested in further details of your sighting of this large pod John as WDCS were up surveying from boat and shore just the other week. All information helps to establish the true status of these species in the area, and with such knowldege conservation measures can be drawn up for these threatened species.
I'm a strong believer in forging strong links between all parties who have a concern for the welfare of our seas, have just joined Sea Anglers Conservation Network who seem to be doing some great work. I'd be glad to forward any data/sightings. On a personal level it would be just great to see the photos John!
I saw two large Bottle-nose Dolphins while fishing for a few hours over high water yesterday afternoon off Rhiw. Caught ten Mackerel and half a dozen small (to 1 1/2 lb) Pollack on white feathers with most returned, and a few ready for dinner.
I think I might be on the slippery slope to being a keen angler... so expect lots of basic questions and reports on blanking in future fromthis novice!
It seems like there are quite a few experienced anglers and real characters on this forum - and I thought that just birders were an obsessive compulsive bunch!
If anyone ever fancied sharing advice on fishing from this area I'd be keen to hear from them.
Best wishes
Andrew