The EAC has been running strongly out deep but it is diverted from Byron Bay, some km's N of us and only swings into the coast near SW Rocks, S of us. When looking at the sea surface temperatures and currents it remains obvious that some cold unpleasant winter water has been trapped off the Coffs Coast and will not be replaced until a strong S weather system forces fresh water in. The cold winter water is nutrient rich and mixed with the warmer water resulted in a tremendous algal bloom. This cut viz right down and since the conditions have been settled, the thermocline is back.
I managed to get in on Friday just before the weekend rush. We dived hard and travelled a massive distance but had little to show for it. A small Dorado, Yellowtail Kingfish and a small unlucky Spanish were the only fish of note. There were no sharks around and I am confident that if there are no sharks, there are no fish. When we got back to Coffs Harbour, the tide was low and the recent swell had deposited a large quantity of sand at the approach to the small craft ramp. Made for an interesting approach on the back of a wave just to have enough water under the boat. Apparently later that day and on Saturday, several boats were unable to get in until high tide. The dredge has been roped in to open the approach.
Sunday, we had some time to get out and do some diving. On Saturday, several Mantas had been seen with a huge entourage of large Cobia. We were after some Cobia and took a good look at Chopper and NW Solitary Island. Unfortunately there was nothing worthwhile and the conditions were foul. An early halt to proceedings ensued with an early breakfast in the offing.
At the moment a strong S system is active off our coast and this should eventually herald the start of some great conditions.
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