After many debates and lots of hours wasted by myself and Ross on the internet, in the library, at book shops, the ichthyology department etc… We can now conclusively say that the ray in the picture below (the one Ross caught) is a Blue Stingray (Dasyatis chrysonota). I can’t believe I’m saying this but Ross was right!!!

After a heavy night of partying on Friday night, we (Gregor, Gail, Ross, Rich and I) decided to go to the beach. Ross (who I think is more passionate about fishing than I am) in is usual chaotic way has only thought about the fact that bait could be quite important on Saturday morning! So we waist valuable fishing time (at least 2 hours) driving around Grahamstown looking for sardines, which are even more elusive than the fish we want to catch. Luckily we managed to find a bait shop in Kenton.

When we finally hit the beach, Gregor, Rich and I are playing a bit of fetch with a rugby ball, while Ross is rigging up his equipment (which is possibly more fun than the actual fishing). Anyway after a lot of antics and every one giving lots of advice about the bait he is using (usual fishing sager). Ross eventually gets his bait in the water (which looks like a shark would have difficulty getting hooked on). After a few bites he caught a nice ray (which we haven’t been able to identify yet), but a good reward for persistence. I suppose persistence does pay off! Gail also caught her first fish, and Rich hooked into a huge one. It was a great day in the end.