Of all the methods of fishing that I know, catching a luderick is the most complicated.

Take a wander along the breakwall any time and you will find the fishermen hard at it. It is like a little city down there with two and four wheel buggies and trolleys rolling along the path dodging holiday makers and pelicans.

These expertly made trolleys are ideal to carry all the equipment required to catch that elusive fish. Rods, reels, net, tackle box, berley bucket, bait and an assortment of floats.

Once a suitable rock has been claimed the fisherman organises his equipment before starting the berley trail. Scoops of sand mixed with green weed or sea cabbage is ladled into the water.

As the mixture sinks the weed and cabbage attracts the fish.

Out goes the float with the tiny hook baited with cabbage. Down the float goes then Whammo!

The fish is hooked and the battle begins. The light rod bends in a semicircle as the fish struggles. Finally, the long net scoops the fish from the water.

- John “Stinker” Clarke