While in Suva, we stopped by the local tackle store and bought all the latest and greatest lures they suggested for this area. We also bought a large spool of 80 pound test line and re-spooled one of our 50’s with 80 pound. We could get away with this because both the rod and reel are rated for 80 pound – just not as much line capacity. As the Shimano Tiagra 2 speed reels are 50 wides – that is still a lot of line. Besides, the coat of an 80 pound Tiagra in Suva was around 13,400 Fijian Dollars – ouch.
We tried all of the latest and greatest on the way up the coast and left Son of Shabby in the box. No joy. As the structure was absolutely great, we suspect that the Chinese fishing fleet had a lot to do with wiping out the area.
Once north of Beqa, I decided to retire the latest and greatest stuff and dug Son of Shabby out of the tackle box. His first day out was less then spectacular – no fish – and we wondered if he was made of the same stuff as his father.
The answer came this morning enroute to Nadi. Son of Shabby snagged an absolutely beautiful 15 KG yellow fin tuna. Deb made a small filet for lunch – and it was the best fish ever.
Steve Dashew suggested we go to Tata’s in Denerau. Sorry Steve, tuna steaks onboard tonight.
Once in Nadi, we went to town and hit the local markets. This Pelangi (white guy) needed a haircut so I stopped by the local barber shop. The tab – USD 3.
Across the street was a market, so we picked up all of our fresh veges, fruit, rice, eggs and kava. Kava is a root and a member of the pepper family that when pounded into a pulp and mixed with water makes a mild narcotic. The roots are to be presented to the village chiefs for a ceremony in the out islands.
Back aboard, we had an island feast. Grilled tuna with a wonderful sauce that Steve made, boiled taro root and bok choi.
Thanks Son of Shabby!