Alan Kelly to a favourite mark on Galway Bay to fish for tope…
The weather had been good and water clarity too so it was time to try for the good old tope. Alan decided to hit a mark in Galway where he had got them before and conditions where perfect. On arriving Alan had to wait a good while for the current to drop off. Not soon after it slowed to a fishable speed – bang! The rod tip went over and the reel was screaming; fish on! After getting down to to the business of playing the fish Alan realised it was a good size. He played it in close to the shore and off it went again, reel screaming! Finally, after about half an hour, Alan got it to the shore and on dry land. Alan estimates the weight at around 40 lb.
The rig used was very simple. A 6/0 hook on a wire pulley with 8oz grip lead. Bait was half side of mackerel tied with bait elastic.
