SARDINE DIP SPARKS KILLER WHALE FILLIP
Concentration of dolphins as they pack-hunt for diminished prey makes them easy hits for orcas
RAGGY Charters, the well-known whale watching outfit, has recently on a few occasions spotted a killer whale which has been lurking in the Algoa Bay area this past month.
This occurrence is scarce but these whales do frequent our waters from time to time. They prey on other mammals such as seals and dolphins. The abundance of these species means they have perhaps become easy prey for the whales.
Since the sardines are scarce the dolphins have been pack hunting and are concentrated, allowing the killer whale the opportunity to prey on them.
The mere fact that this whale remains in the area would suggest this.
The male killer whale was photographed attacking a bottlenose dolphin recently in full view of guests aboard the charter.
Very much like a lion kill at Kruger Park, it was a spectacle not for the faint-hearted, but a rare sight nevertheless.
While the bay abounds with wildlife it has been earmarked for yet more closed areas to further preserve this marine wilderness. These will be shore areas as well as areas around the islands.
The exact restrictions are not known yet. However, angling will no doubt suffer the loss of more area. As I have said in the past these are necessary, but create pressure on other areas as a result.
I certainly hope this is well thought out and the correct impact studies are done.
The rock and surf fraternity rely on fixed venues in order to hold competitions and as a result these closed areas impact heavily on the choice of venues. The practice of catch and release should be considered a strong motivator to at least allow fixed venue competitions to be angled in these closed areas from time to time.
Such events might allow the scientists the opportunity to gather much-needed information making it a win-win situation.
Every sport has its injuries and rock and surf is no exception. Lionel McDougall was bitten by a ragged tooth shark in the Port Alfred area while trying to unhook it. For those with an underlying fear of sharks – I certainly don’t believe the shark deliberately tried to maul him in the shallows. These are usually docile creatures. However, they do thrash around and a bite might merely be instinctive behaviour.
It was a painful experience for McDougall, whose injuries were the result of him trying to place as little stress as possible on the shark, resulting in a successful release.
So angling injuries can happen. Like when going for diamond rays where the barbs in their tails have caught many a complacent angler off guard.
The annual Tuna Classic is about to start again and is a highlight of the region’s angling calendar.
The quest for that trophy tuna which has eluded anglers the past few years is ever present, with some attractive prizes at stake. Entrants from far afield make this competition one of the grandest in the country.
Many other activities surround the Port Elizabeth Deep Sea Angling Club in the harbour during this time, including live entertainment and a beer tent.
Let’s hope some good catches are made.