The people who risk their lives for a catch

The people who risk their lives for a catch

Source: theguardian

5/8/2022

The people who risk their lives for a catch

Credit: Carly Earl/The Guardian

In the half light of the approaching sunrise at Maroubra in Sydney’s south-east, Joshua Hay clambers over rock ledges, feeling his way to the ocean’s edge.

Armed with his 1970s vintage rod, reel and bucket, he’s aiming to catch luderick at “the Stake”, a popular but dangerous spot among rock fishers.

To get to the Stake “fishos” have to pass a sign reading “three deaths” underneath a skull and crossbones – the tally of drownings in the area.
Rain has been sprinkling down on the coastline overnight, and the rocks are wet and slippery.

As Hay digs around for bits of seaweed – his preferred bait – foamy water laps at his ankles.