Client reviews and comments

 

Fishing on ‘Our Mary’, 4th and 8th October, 2007

We booked 2 full days (2 X 7 hours) fishing aboard ‘Our Mary’ for early October, which we hoped would be at the peak of Wahoo fishing in Madeira (Sept-Nov). Unfortunately, the Wahoo were not present, and none of the boats that tried trolling for them, returned with any fish during our 11 day stay in Madeira.

We therefore, decided to go with the advice of co-owner, and fishing crewman Jose, and try the bottom fishing for Sting Ray, Amberjack Tuna, and Eagle Ray, and so it was ensured that we got some of the action we came for.

It really is worth taking a full-day trip, rather than the 4 hour half-day option when bottom fishing, because it allows plenty of time for the ‘chum’ that the crew fed continually into the deep, clear blue waters to draw the fish in.

On our first day out we were quickly into action with a few Amberjacks, and a good Sting Ray of around 200lb. We went on to catch a few smaller rays, including one or two nice Eagle Rays.

Our second day out was slow to start, but eventually began to produce Eagle Rays, and Steven had a good one, which gave him quite a tussle on a light spinning rod that we had taken with us. Then, just half an hour before it was time to return to the harbour, my heavy boat rod began to pour line from the reel, as a very large Sting Ray moved off with the bait. It then became a battle of attrition as I remained strapped to the chair for 20 minutes without making any line on the fish at all. Gradually, I began to get the better of it and after a further 10 minutes of pumping a Sting Ray of (est.) 300lb+ finally broke the surface. When I was able to stagger out of the chair to get my first sight of it, I’d have sworn it was a king-sized duvet!

They say that, in fishing; The longer the wait…The better the fish. That was certainly the case, and that fish provided a thrilling ending to a most convivially hosted day aboard ‘Our Mary’.

‘Our Mary’ is very well maintained, and kept very clean. We’d recommend chartering ‘Our Mary’ to anyone planning some fishing in Madeira. Jose, and Skipper, Geraldo work extremely hard to make sure that you catch fish, (so long as they’re there to be caught, of course). You’ll find yourself in great company with many years fishing experience, and treated to good food, and as many beers, teas, coffees etc. as you can swallow. Jose is a very friendly guy, with a great sense of humour (especially since he thinks he can sing), and he speaks excellent English. All tackle is supplied, and Jose is always on hand to give help and advice.

We’ll be back on ‘Our Mary’ for 3-4 days Marlin fishing in June/July next year. Our view is: When you’re on to a good thing with your boat & your crew – don’t change it!

Booking is easy through the web site, and Beto (who takes care of bookings & inquiries) is very efficient, and happy to answer any questions.

Don’t waste time searching further for your ideal fishing charter in Madeira – Just book here!

Phil Hawker, and Steven Baldwin
Oct. 2007