As always it was eyes on the weather for several days before our annual boat trip seeking the ray off Minehead aboard Steve Webbers boat “Osprey”. But on this occasion after a cold start to the day with a chill North East breeze the sun broke through and the sea flattened to bring perfect conditions. This was not a view shared by the fish that fed well through the morning but declined our offerings when the sun broke through as the tide flooded back into the Bristol Channel.
Top specimen of the day was a small eyed ray weighing 10lb and the next best a nice blonde ray of 14lb 8oz both fish tempted by Matt Jeffery. Several smoothound visited the boat and were tempted using both crab and fish baits. Four ray species were landed, thornback, blonde, spotted and small eyed.
Boat trips are always great social events with friendly banter and at times heated debate on all things piscatorial. A pint and a snack at the Rising Sun Lynmouth rounded off a great day out with great company and good sport. Many thanks to Steve Webber for putting us on the fish and provided frequent cups of tea throughout the day.
