Fishing for Jocks

In the Pan: 18 Sep 08 

The Carenage, St Georges, Grenada

And so it was, we moved on again. The Crew, eager to keep up his record, put out both lures. Despite a strike that had us all running about like keystone cops, it became one of our “catch & returns”, fortunately not taking our expensive tackle with it!

This time our destination was St Georges, the historic capital of Grenada. This amazing town dates back to the 1650's and a number of building still have wonderful red "fish scale" tiles brought over as ballast by sailing ships. 

WJ3 in the Pan under her new awning

After a tour of the Lagoon (better known as the Pan) we decided that outside the harbour was better for swimming, and so anchored off Ross Point. No sooner was the pick set, than a thunder storm blew over, gusting nearly 30kts with an exciting steep swell. We sat in the cockpit (& rain) watching a couple of boats drag at anchor and a huge cat swing way too close for comfort. Worse still, the coffee plunger nearly came to grief. The Motleys crossed fingers that Big Bertha would work her magic for us. As soon as the winds died, many of us “fair-weather” types motored into the safety of “the Pan”.

Lunch & e-mail

The Grenada Yacht Club is probably the same vintage as the Port Dickson Yacht Club (Malaysia). It certainly has the same tropical ambiance and its kitchen serves an interesting selection of local foods. We tried their breaded flying fish & of course the ubiquitous hamburger. We have though, at least been able to catch up on the essentials – washing, food and internet. 

Fort George 1705-1710

We’ve also taken time to explore St Georges, mostly on foot. It’s quite hilly but thanks to French ingenuity, a tunnel built in 1894 under Fort George, connects the Carenage with a colourful local fruit/veg/spice market (and equally colourful lady vendors) and from there it’s only a short walk to the fish market.

Sendel Tunnel 1894

Apparently fish is scarce at this time of year, so only a few tuna graced concrete slabs. Signs everywhere reminded folks that “bad language” would not be tolerated. Guess Gordon Ramsey wouldn’t be welcome here? On the wharf, a couple of fishing boats were selling their popular load of “jocks” (oh, that’s jacks with a Caribbean accent). I could smell the fresh meat market before I saw it. Having experienced enough open air butchers in my life, it was easily bypassed, especially in 33 degree heat.

Selling Jocks

One thing we can’t do in the Lagoon is swim. Happily, it’s only a short dingy ride round to Grand Anse, a wide sweep of white sand, swaying coconut palms, clear water and subdued resorts. (They’re sensibly not allowed to build higher than a coconut palm). This is where you will find us most days after about 3pm. Cooling down before taking sundowners somewhere….

From:  Clarke’s Court Bay, Grenada  Lat/Long: 12 01N  61 44W  Date/Time: 18/9/08: 0830
To: St Georges, Grenada  Lat/Long: 12 03N  61 45W  Date/Time: 18/9/08: 1100
Time Taken: 11nm (2hrs)  Distance (this year): 762nm (160hrs)
Distance Total (since 2008): 762nm  (160hrs)   Fastest Speed: Motored**
Weather: Winds ESE 5-10kts; 2-4ft swell; fine day with a few clouds
(** It was very calm)