Hermanus has many treats and activities to offer there is no doubt about that – but never have I been fishing on the peer. No no not the dangerous one where the waves break and the water tumbles over like a torrential down pour. The safer, smaller peer that cuts into the new harbour area.

Our first fishing expedition, happed randomly when my brother voiced that he craved the tranquillity of the ocean and I myself would not mind to breathe in salty air with a rod in my hand. It was 9pm on a Friday evening, and within seconds we were in the car heading to the New Harbour, with our fishing rods, the necessary gear, bait and warm blankets. The evening passed in a blissful blur, I caught nearly seven small Massbankers, a tiny silver fish that seemed to be in ample supply on the ocean surface that night. Did I mention I was using only a fishing line attached to my hand? I chivalrously opted to not use a rod because we had only brought two in our haste.

My brother and a friend caught an array of different fish some of which was the spectacular shy sharks. The air was warmer than expected, with not a sign of a breeze stirring the small waves, the moon was full and all clouds had vanished from the heavens only hours before, leaving a crystal clear night with a canopy of start twinkling on a magnificent velvet backdrop. There were a few scattered fishermen that seemed to take the sport more seriously than we did - of course what we caught we release back into the ocean again. The shadows danced all around us, but we were safely nestled under a large lamp-post that vibrated enough light to chase away complete darkness.

Our next fishing expedition happed only two days later, eager and much anticipation lead to another day filled with laughter and a peaceful ambience listening to the waves break on the peer. This time we decided to drop our lines into the water just after 5pm, the harbour had a large variety of people, from novices to the real deal. Fishermen sat patiently waiting for the creatures of the ocean to emerge from its silvery depths. Never did I think that I would enjoy the simple act of fishing off the peer as much as I did. It is relaxation at its best! With the majestic mountains as a backdrop and the setting sun painting fiery colours in the darkening sky I can vouch that it will not be my last.. I even purchased a metallic blue fishing rod for our future trips..