Another lovely evening in the marina, and another monthly meeting already. If only the wind would drop a bit so we could get more fishing days in, but despite that we had several fish to consider for the Fish Of The Month competition. Like the Mornington Crescent game on Radio 4, nobody has quite worked out what the rules are for this. A starting point is the size of a fish compared with the published Specimen qualifying weight, then members vote based on how “good” a catch this was taking into account rarity and whatever other factors come to mind. I’m sure one day AI will come up with an algorithm but in the meantime we’ll carry on arguing about it. Net result was, FOTM went to Dan Lumsden for his turbot of 7lb 2oz.

The current club competition standings are listed below.

We all agreed that the BBQ on Saturday was a great success with around 50 members and guests enjoying the sun, company and food. We raised £720, which covered the £600 cost plus a new gas bottle for next time. Thanks to everyone who supported the event particularly those who bought raffle tickets but were unable to attend, and those helpers who stayed behind to clear up. The full report is here.

Our next main event is the Open Species Competition on 13th August – more details here

There will be a group night fishing trip for sole and stingray in the summer, so watch out for details as we need a calm night!

Our flotilla trip to Brighton is planned for September. Details will be confirmed when our organisers have confirmed availability of marina, a guide and suitable tides. There will be a competition over the trip but we have yet to agree how this fits in with our SMAC rules for fish caught from Southsea Marina. Watch this space, or more specifically watch the WhatsApp Group.

Our 10-year anniversary T Shirts will cost around £14 each for the first batch, and about £17 for single orders later. These will be supplied by our local merch printer Vintage Pig, and when we have finalised the print design an order form will be circulated.

In Any Other Business, we asked Steve to ask the Marina management if they have plans to do some maintenance and repairs to the BBQ area; get around to fixing the tap on the holding pontoon please and is there any news on dredging the marina?

Our next meeting will be at 7pm on Tuesday 4th July in the Marina Bar as usual.

Nevile Merritt