In the final days of August, as you navigate against strong waves, you find yourself with Andros Island as your desired destination. After passing Mantelo rocks and crossing Kafireas straight, the Gaurio port is just a few miles away. As the sun starts to set, you drop anchor for the night, eagerly anticipating tomorrow’s dive into the waters where you first learned how to fish. You want to make the most of your time before a thunderstorm rolls in from the west, knowing that you may not have much time left. Although the first dive doesn’t yield any notable fish, you press on, exploring the stern of a shipwreck and taking in the stunning underwater world. Finally, you spot a group of Goldblotch groupers and manage to catch the largest one, sealing the day with a triumphant catch. As the rain catches up to you on your return journey, you take a quick dive at a familiar spot, relishing the experience of rain falling below the sea, an experience you haven’t had in months. Cleaning your impressive catch, you witness a heavy thunderstorm, a sight that sets the skies ablaze and evokes awe.

Setting the Scene

As the final days of August approach, you find yourself embarking on a journey against 5bf waves, with the beloved Andros Island as your ultimate destination. After passing Mantelo rocks and crossing Kafireas Strait, you are just a few miles away from Gaurio port. With the sun beginning to set, you drop anchor for the night, eagerly anticipating the early morning fishing adventure that awaits you.

Adjusting to the Rough Waves

Navigating through rough waves can be a challenging task, but as an experienced fisherman, you know how to adjust to the unpredictable nature of the sea. With each wave crashing against the bow of your boat, you steady yourself and prepare for the adventure ahead.

The Final Destination: Beloved Andros Island

Andros Island holds a special place in your heart as it is where you first learned how to fish. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are not only beautiful but also teeming with a diverse variety of fish. It is no wonder that you are drawn back to this special place time and time again.

Sunset Arrival and Plans for Early Morning Fishing

As the sun sets, you drop anchor, ready to rest and recharge for the early morning fishing adventure that awaits you. With the anticipation building, you make plans in your mind for the different species of fish you hope to encounter and the techniques you will employ to catch them.

Beginning the Fishing Adventure

Rising before the sunrise, you cannot contain your excitement as you rush to launch your rib, eager to make the most of the time before the impending thunderstorm arrives. The first lightning bolts are already visible, serving as a reminder that time is of the essence.

Rushing to Beat the Incoming Storm

With the thunderstorm looming in the distance, you know that you have limited time before the weather turns unfavorable for fishing. Motivated by the approaching storm, you dive into the water without hesitation, determined to make the most of every second.

First Dive: Initial Observations

On your first dive, you quickly realize that luck may not be on your side. Besides spotting a nice Scorpaena, which you decide to leave for later, there are only a few Goldblotch groupers weighing up to 1.5kg. Disappointed but undeterred, you decide to dive for one last ambush near the stern of a shipwreck, hoping for a more fruitful encounter.

Decision to Leave the Scorpaena For Later

Although tempted by the presence of a nice Scorpaena, you make the conscious decision to let it go and pursue other opportunities. You know that there may be even better fish out there, and you don’t want to settle for anything less than the best.

Chasing Larger Prey

In your pursuit of a memorable fishing experience, you set your sights on capturing Goldblotch groupers, known for their impressive size and fighting spirit. Ignoring the smaller prey that may cross your path, you remain laser-focused on the target ahead.

Hope for Capturing Goldblotch Groupers

The allure of capturing a Goldblotch grouper drives your fishing expedition. These elusive creatures are known for their size and strength, making them a prized catch among fishermen. You keep your eyes peeled for any sign of their presence, hoping to get a chance to test your skills.

Ignoring Smaller Prey for Better Opportunities

While smaller fish may come into view during your dives, you resist the temptation to go after them. You know that by focusing solely on the larger and more challenging prey, you increase your chances of a truly rewarding fishing experience.

Encounter with Another Scorpaena

As you maneuver through the underwater world, another Scorpaena catches your attention. Although you had previously decided to leave Scorpaenas for later, this encounter piques your curiosity. You make a mental note of its location, planning to return and capture it after exploring other fishing spots.

Delving Deeper

In your pursuit of the perfect catch, you find yourself delving deeper into the underwater realm, exploring new fishing spots and adapting your techniques to attract elusive fish.

The Shift in Target

Your focus begins to shift as you realize the potential lurking in the depths. The opportunity to catch a Lionfish, a delicious and unique species, entices you to explore new areas and expand your fishing horizons.

Lure of the Lionfish

The allure of capturing a Lionfish for a taste comparison draws you in. This beautiful and intriguing species has become an invasive and problematic presence in many marine ecosystems. You see this as an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of these delicate ecosystems while enjoying a delectable treat.

Exploring New Fishing Spots

In your quest for the perfect catch, you venture into unknown territory. You explore new fishing spots, relying on your intuition and experience to guide you towards areas where you believe the fish may congregate. The excitement of the unknown energizes you as you dive deeper into the underwater world.

Revisiting Old Fishing Grounds

As much as you enjoy exploring new fishing spots, there is a sense of nostalgia that beckons you back to the familiar. You decide to revisit old fishing grounds, hoping to rekindle the magic of past successes.

Revisiting Agguato Towards a Hole

One spot that holds a special place in your heart is an agguato towards a hole where you have encountered Dusky groupers weighing up to 8kg in the past. Memories of previous successful dives flood your mind as you make your way back to this beloved fishing ground.

Unanticipated Encounter with a 4kg Dusky

Upon arrival at the familiar hole, you are greeted by the sight of a 4kg Dusky grouper. Although not the size you had hoped for, it brings back memories of past fishing adventures and reminds you of the diverse marine life that calls these waters home.

Regret Over Missed Barracudas

While reflecting on your journey, you can’t help but feel a tinge of regret for not taking the opportunity to shoot one of the first Barracudas you encountered. Hindsight is always 20/20, and in that moment, you realize the importance of seizing every opportunity that comes your way.

Continuing the Pursuit

Undeterred by missed opportunities, you press forward in your pursuit of the perfect catch. Your determination to catch a Goldblotch grouper remains unwavering as you navigate the challenges of the ever-changing underwater world.

Further Pursuit of the Goldblotch Grouper

The highs and lows of your fishing adventure have only fueled your desire to catch a Goldblotch grouper. With each failed attempt, your determination grows stronger, and you become more focused on the end goal.

Disappointment at Another Dusky Sighting

Despite your unwavering pursuit of Goldblotch groupers, luck does not seem to be on your side. Another dive results in the sighting of a 7kg Dusky grouper, leaving you feeling slightly disappointed. However, you remain hopeful that your perseverance will pay off in the end.

The Time Pressure

As the day progresses, you feel the weight of the ticking clock. Time is running out, and the impending thunderstorm looms over you, reminding you of the urgency to make the most of every moment. With a sense of determination, you push forward, unwilling to let the pressures of time hinder your pursuit.

Success at Last

Finally, after a day filled with challenges and near-misses, success comes to you at a spot filled with fond memories. You find yourself in the midst of a midwater observation, surrounded by the bounty of the sea.

Spot with Fond Past Memories

In a spot that has been etched into your memory since childhood, you can’t help but feel a surge of excitement. This place has gifted you with many prized catches, including thick Goldblotch and Mottled groupers. The nostalgia blends with your present pursuit, creating a sense of harmony within you.

Midwater Observation and the Bounty

As you observe the world around you, a sight catches your eye. Baitfish are approaching from your right, indicating that the larger fish you seek may be on the other side of a ridge. Following your intuition, you manage to attract the attention of a group of Goldblotch and Mottled groupers. Amidst them, the largest one draws your gaze, and with precision, you capture your desired prize.

Capturing the Mottled Grouper

With the weight of the Mottled grouper in your hands, a sense of accomplishment washes over you. The long and challenging journey has finally paid off, and you savor the moment, proud of your success.