There’s something special about launching before sunrise, that quiet moment when the boat sits waiting on the beach, full of promise and the day ahead. Shaun and I met early, fly rods packed, coffee barely kicking in. Dropped the boat onto the beach, the tractor rumbled down to push us into the surf. Before we knew it, we were cutting across the morning chop toward the ships.

We had an 8, 9 and 12 weight rods rigged, but as soon as we reached the first ship it was clear the wind had other plans. The surface was messy and choppy, 12 weight was the only sensible choice. The Rio Elite GT line was chosen for its aggressive head and having minimal stretch for better hook sets, 40lb saltwater mono, and a custom tied 4/0 baitfish imitation, a setup built for trouble!

The first ship was quiet. Not even a shadow moving.
The second one held life, and it wasn’t long before we found action. Managed two smaller specimens quickly, both on 4/0 sized flies eating aggressively and jumping as they known too, not long before one of the crew started looking a little green. Sea sickness is probably the worst and we opted to run to shallower more sheltered waters in hopes of some respite from the rolling swells.

We headed inshore where the reefs always have something to offer, even if it means getting a bit experimental. Shaun tied on a slightly debatable fly (the kind you either brag about or pretend never happened) and we decided to dredge deep for anything willing.

It worked.

First up was a catface rockcod, followed by two solid fish that pulled hooks before we could see them. Then I came tight to something with real weight. After a couple of stubborn surges, a large Javelin Grunter came to the surface, a quality fish and the highlight of the morning.

By 11 a.m. we were back on the beach, Junior Giulia was happy to reach land and be stable for a change. All of us grinning from ear to ear. Another great session, another reminder why we chase fish at first light and keep throwing flies into the unknown.

Theres lots more to Xplore out there and you never know what lies beyond the breakers… that’s what keeps us going back for more