If the number of fish caught during the inaugural Ladies Day Out on March 8 was a barometer for the success of the outing, then the day was a dismal failure.

But rarely have so few fish brought such enjoyment for the 16 women on board to celebrate International Women’s Day on an outing hosted by the FSC’s Angling Section.

They came from all walks of life and all backgrounds, but the motivation for the day was a common denominator – the exhilaration of enjoying a perfect day at sea on Success.

Almost all the women came with mates, in twos or threes, to enjoy, some for the first time, the companionship of friends in an unfamiliar environment for many of them.

Keen angler Sangeeta Menon brought along her mother 70-year-old mother Maria as a special treat.

Vice-commodore Anita Wyntje gave up her Sunday to skipper the boat while Angling Section members Martin Smith, Pat Keenan-Smith and Ray Wilson acted as volunteers for the day.

A key part of the day was the contribution of Recfishwest officer Alanna Hubbard and her mate Josie who provided tuition for those who needed it.

Some on board knew a thing or two about the art of fishing, but for most women it was an opportunity to learn about knots and techniques to catch various fish.

On board, Alanna and Josie were on hand to give first-hand knowledge to anybody who wanted to enhance their skills.

With excellent sandwiches from the Club galley, along with a well-stocked cheese board and fruit platter, the ladies tucked into a healthy lunch between casts before enjoying a glass of champers on the Sunset Deck at the end of the day.

The general banter and camaraderie were testament to the mood on board, with at least three of the women vowing to become general members in order to enjoy Club trips out on Success.

CEO Karen Baldwin dropped in at the start to observe proceedings and the successful day is certain to trigger discussion about further similar outings for women.

Race Report by Ray Wilson (Angling Section)