AN intrepid group of Melbourne supporters left for Darwin eager to test their fishing and socialising skills at Crab Claw Island in the lead up to Melbourne’s home game against Brisbane last week.

The Wednesday afternoon bus ride out included a few stops to soak up the amazing countryside, before landing at the fishing resort. A get to know you welcome dinner, led by Melbourne directors Glen Bartlett and John Trotter, set the scene for a great few days.

The first day of deep sea fishing held little success for the novices, despite the best efforts of Paul Pirrie and the ever ready Greg Hill who both managed to land a few good catches. At one stage, 2011 champion Tim Mason had a Jewfish on the line that would have surely put him in the running to win the title again - but unfortunately the great fish was too cunning, much to everyone’s enjoyment and Tim’s disappointment.  Mark ‘Boof’ Blyth and Chris Sleigh were the stand outs on the estuary boats, with both pulling in some respectable keepers. As dinner was served that night the guests were treated to a great assessment of the club by Todd Viney, and an inspiring speech on persistence from Robert Flower.

Persistence was to prove the winner, as the next day the deep sea boat with the ‘A Team’ aboard pulled in enough Spanish Mackerel to fill the fillet boxes. Torsten Kasper was rewarded for his persistence pulling in a two metre shark and the prize that night for his efforts. The estuary boats had a better day as well, starting with Robert Flower’s Barramundi - the pick of a good crop.

It was another great year, spent with great people. So, just remember - if you enjoy the sun, fishing, football and great company, we hope to see you in 2014.

Fishing and Football in the Top End prize winners.
Day 1 – Biggest deep sea: Paul Pirrie
Day 1 – Biggest Barramundi: Mark Blyth
Biggest Miss Day 1: Greg Hill
Day 2 – Biggest deep sea: Torsten Kasper
Day 2 – Biggest Barramundi: Robert Flower
Biggest Miss Day 1: Chad Howard

NAFA: Chad Howard
Most consistent: Andrew Lloyd
Most Improved: Fred Fuster
Most Determined: Greg Hill (special mention Ian Sheppard)
Runner Up: Mark Blyth (special mention Tim Mason)
2013 Champion: Chris Sleigh