Tag A Ray

Summer the season of heat, joy, beaches, family, fun but most of all unique beautiful exotic species of fish come out of hiding after winter. Probably my favorite of these species has to be the ray. There are many different species of ray in our waters the most well known being the stingray, a powerful, deadly giant of the sea floor. I am fortunate to live in Tralee bay where it is believed they breed every year. The shallow water provides a perfect breeding habitat for these amazing creatures. Although they are the biggest the stingray is not the only species of ray in Tralee bay. There is also Thornback ray, Painted ray and Undulate ray. Extensive research is being done at present on the ray in Tralee bay, as they are thought to be unique to the area

To assist with the research Tralee Bay SAC hold a competition every year. Tag A Ray.  Last weekend the event took place and it was its third year running. The objective of the competition is to catch tag and release ray. The ray must be over the size off 45cm across the wings to be tagged. Along with the help of Dr. Ken O' Sullivan we are hoping to get the necessary data for a conclusive result. Both boat and shore anglers take part in this competition.This year there was a great turnout and despite difficult weather conditions there was still a great buzz among the anglers.

 The weekend was tough and I managed to catch 2 good sized ray off the boat. I was delighted to catch a 19lb stingray, a personal best for me. my second fish was a beautiful 7lb undulate ray which was enough for me to win the juniors for the boat. 

Hopefully over the coming months i will get some shore fishing in for these mysterious fish and I  really look forward to next years Tag A Ray to meet friends old and new.